She's so broken, and it kills him.

He knows how strong she is, wishes he could have her strength.

But right now, when she's sobbing into his shoulder, he needs to be the strong one.

So he holds her close and rubs her back.

He doesn't shush her tears, because he honestly wants to cry with her.

But he stays strong, stays the guy she needs right now.

And when her breathing evens and he's sure she's asleep, he holds her impossibly closer.

Because if he's honest with himself, she is so much more than his cancer friend.