[ He tells himself that he did not stop breathing for a bit. Not even a little. But he is not entirely sure. So he breathes, and then lifts a hand to tenderly run his thumb along her cheek.

He does not know what to respond to that gentle declaration. So he elects to address other concerns instead: ] You could also speak to Peggy. She may offer alternatives as well, given that her situation in Aspen Creek is not the norm.