[Kieran fiddles around more with Eavan's bridle and the glowing horse bats her eyelashes in unfamiliarity. He's careful not to jerk her head around or to tug the material too tightly, but it's still something relatively new for the recently tamed mare. He takes a moment to coo at her a bit, easing any of her nerves before letting go.]

[It looks like the bridle will fit her well. That's a good start.]

[He's listening to Ben the whole time, his nods filled with understanding and devoid of judgment. It's hard fo feel anything but pure empathy for his friend.]

It ain't a contest. Our pasts, I mean. Don't, uh, don't think that yer not allowed to complain just 'cause you think I had it worse.

[Arguments as to who had a rougher upbringing could be made for either of them, but as far as Kieran is concerned, a shitty hand is a shitty hand. He's not about to try to one-up his buddy over past traumas.]

A-And don't worry about sayin' what's on yer mind. Don't let that creepy feller take that away from ya.

If anythin', you know that at least one place is safe. You can always come here and talk about whatever you want. Promise.