[He draws in a breath and holds it, exhales with only a slight tremor, and moves his hands. He's a wreck.]

And I would really prefer you didn't, [He offers, in as much of a harsh tone as he can muster with wet eyelashes and red-rimmed eyes.] Just... give me five minutes, I'll wash my face. I forgot to put up your curry, so we'll need something to eat, too.