cont. from ... @missingprson
steve had been around enough bullshit to sense a wall up between him and barb. he supposed it had always been there, and he didn't help matters BEFORE the events she mentioned. while he couldn't defend himself by saying he was trying his very best now, he wanted to learn. he just didn't know how or where to start. nonconfrontational where he could manage it, all he knew was how to keep things cool and casual. when he was met with her gracious brush off, part of him wanted to accept it. another part, one that was becoming more prominent lately, couldn't let it go.
a voice in the back of his mind whispered he had no right to push her, and he knew he wouldn't get her to open up if he pushed. so, he nodded although there was a well of emotion in his eyes. steve wanted to believe her when she said she didn't blame him altogether. it would be SO EASY to move on, but if steve knew nothing else, he was sure that wasn't true. harrington was done taking it easy. "if there's anything... i know i'm not exactly the person you'd want to turn to, but i... uh, i'm here. okay?"
he dragged his eyes up from his feet where he tried looking for the right words. steve looked at her steadily to let her know he was being absolutely genuine. "and i'm sorry. we don't have to talk about it anymore if you don't want to, but i had to say it because i am. i'm really sorry, barb." hands on his hips, steve stood his ground with a softened expression. he knew this wasn't the olive branch he was hoping for, but it was a start. maybe.
