[ Ben... doesn't really know what to say to that. He appreciates it, but thanks is all wrong. Words are so stupid and insufficient. He gives a little awkward shrug and then just sort of lets it drop, even though it makes the silence in the room strained for a moment or two. ]

Not so bad? Sounds pretty awesome if you ask me.

[ It's not all awesome. Ben knows that. How could he not be reminded of that when Genji's face is right there, with all those reminders of violence strewn across it. But still... ]

I have... a, um. friend. [ A long pause, then Ben grins, face flushed, ducking his head as he admits: ] Um. A- boyfriend, actually. Anyway, that's not the important part. He's been helping me to sort of... like myself more than I used to. And one of the things that's been working really well is catching myself when I start saying or thinking negative stuff about myself, even when it's a joke. Like, recontextualizing how I look at myself. I think maybe... owning the whole cyborg thing might do that for you, maybe?

[ Ben looks up again, then. There is an earnestness in his face. He wants so badly to be able to give Genji a little bit of help in this area. To support him and be there for him. Even if he's still something of a mess, himself. ]

Is - there anything else you need, I mean... to make thing worthwhile? How are you doing? You asked about me, earlier, but I didn't ask back?