"You're much more honest," Cyclonus says, approval clear in his voice. He even gives Tailgate's shoulder an encouraging squeeze.

He has many reasons for being distant, but all of them should honestly earn him a smack in the head. Even when he's trying to be open he's still terrible.

"It did." His free hand drifts down to curl around one of Tailgate's, delicately entwining his claws with slender fingers. "You were very determined. I admire that." Just say 'I admire you'. Just say it to his face.

Instead he just tugs Tailgate's hand up gently to press against his lips.