[ He just shakes his head slowly. Leaning his head down against the table. No, he doesn't want Wash's hate. The same as he doesn't want Elena's. No, he wants her happiness - and he wants Wash's too. With or without him as a partner. And it's not as though they're not friends, as thought that isn't the actual most important part of this conversation.

Apropos of nothing visible, he blurts out: ]

Do you hate me? For asking perpetually?