Goddess, the stab of pain and panic through Dimitri's heart -- he's half inclined to say damn the discussion and call for Watson right away. But the longer he puts this off, the more it'll hurt, and the more it will eat like acid into Dimitri's chest. Best to get it out of the way now.

Dimitri fidgets, uncertain, then opts to seat himself next to Dedue. It feels better than standing over him. He wants to reach out -- for Dedue's hand, or his shoulder -- but without the excuse of physical support he can't be sure if it'll be welcome. So he sits, their shoulders barely brushing, a quiet offer of support for Dedue to take or leave.

"How much did Erin tell you, about where we are?"