It really isn't alright, and it's not meant to be. They both know that, in the mapped landscapes of their losses, in the ways they've learned to live with answers being less than satisfactory, in happiness being hard won and found in unexpected moments.

He's not an experienced comforter, but he's tried, sort of, to figure out hugs. He's given out more on this train than before, and the only one not to his son being--to Wen Ning's sister.

He can't make up for the unfairness of them not being able to meet, even here. So what is it in hugs? What did his shijie do, a lifetime ago so close he might touch it still if he closes his eyes?

He strokes his hands over his hair, figuring he'll leave it to Wen Ning to end this hug.

"It's not, but... you're not alone, either. Not here, not back home."