Dorian's pity, though not solicited, was not necessarily unwanted. Bull had intentionally been holding any offer of compassion at arm's length for months, and this strange circumstance had forced his guard down.

He wanted comfort.

"I'll stay home," he agreed. "Plant the garden while you drink lemonade and tell me where to put things." Bull brushed his hand over Dorian's back as he passed to get the eggs out of the fridge.