[ And very quickly they're alone. There's just Ray above him, the steadiness of his breathing, those sharp blue eyes that seemed to bleed emotion straight through them. Fraser could see all of his anxiety there, but he could see when Ray was reflecting and listening. It was magic, a little bit like hypnosis, but the control it gave them over the situation was more than just useful. Of course Ray could make him feel safe, with just a look like that.

Fraser closed his hand around Ray's, when it was pressed into place, reassured by the grip entirely. It was the first truly willing thing he'd done since this had begun, and now he had that anchor point the connection was complete. Neither of them would forget entirely about the "mobster" looming beside them, but this close - inches apart, Ray's hands on him, Ray's eyes on him - they were at least making progress.

He spoke to both the men in the room, through him. ]

Yes, you make me happy. You're my partner, Ray, and I trust you--I've trusted you. I'd like to think that nothing could ever come between us, and that no matter what you do, or who you are, our friendship would always come first. That means a lot to me. I mean...I have faith in people doing the right thing, but sometimes that isn't always possible. And trust may seem like a word I fling around haphazardly, but I have every reason to be mistrustful, considering the things I've seen--there is always doubt where it's due. But... [ He needs to breathe. It's a lot of talking. He shook his head, changing his mind after all. ]

Never mind. I'm not being particularly eloquent. [ He squeezed Ray's hand. ] It's like dancing. You...you should probably move, Ray. Dance with me. I promise it'll be okay.