Caleb takes that chance, slumping against Yussa at the first opportunity. He lays his head on the other man's chest and for once accepts every bit of comfort he's offered. His eyes close as Yussa's fingers sift through his hair, and he breathes deeply and evenly, as though trying to go back to sleep.

That isn't an option even if he wanted to. Yussa's voice is low and soothing, but the heavy sense of disappointment lingers, a weight in Caleb's chest. Self-imposed, mostly. He shouldn't have to be reminded of these things. He looks up when Yussa's touch trails along his jaw, and can't help feeling a bit ridiculous. Nothing has been taken from him. Nothing that ever would have been possible, at least. Why is he so upset about something he'd never seriously considered in the first place?

"So I am not being banished? That is good to hear." It's a weak joke, but he commits to it with a grim smile.

He has to wonder how Yussa is feeling. Last night he'd asked him to stay, and it sounds like he'd meant it, or that he wishes he could have. "Don't worry, schatz. There is nothing that could make me abandon my ambitions. As you said, they are too important."