essek can feel caleb’s mild discomfort is palpable in the air, and he hisses a breath in through his teeth. he wants to diffuse this, but...

“i can understand,” he finally says, seating himself next to caleb. maybe a little closer than he intended. “sleeping on a bus has been hard to get used to. i’m used to awkward sleeping positions in the back of a van being driven by someone who barely has a license.” he chuckles, cradling his own drink to his chest. “i... don’t think i’ve thanked you properly yet for having me out on this tour. i think it’ll be huge for me.”