( there's a strained note of silence, and then a sigh. Gwen was way more than a friend, but that's not a conversation he's allowing himself to have. )

Thanks.

( it comes off a little deadened, lacking the usual warmth he seems to have in spades. hopefully he can be forgiven for that. )

I can show you. It's not too hard at this point. Talk to them. Play music for them, maybe. Read them your favorite story. It might feel a little weird but they can hear you. I could probably use help checking that they're at a consistent temperature, too.