“You don’t have to let anyone touch you that you don’t want to,” Jack soothes, running a hand over Robby’s shoulders. “We are not doing this without your consent. We will give you as long as you need.”

“The only one I want is you to check on me,” Robby says, looking at him from under his lashes.

Jack kisses his fist. “I can’t be your doctor, baby, you know that. But I am going to be right by your side the entire time. You’re gonna walk out of here today, alright? Can I touch you?”

Robby nods like it wasn’t a question. For how he reacts when anyone else touches him, Jack is honored.

“You’re okay,” Jack murmurs, pulling him into a tight hug. “I promise you’re okay.”

Robby takes a shuddering breath, nodding into his shoulder. Jack rubs his back, knowing Robby needs touch, good touch, touch he actually wants, more than anything. And for the first time, he’s allowed to have it and dictate when he doesn’t want it.