Reno's silence wasn't overlooked, and Rude was thankful for it. His partner did know him better than anyone else, and really, this just proved it. Not only did he know him, but he was willing to work over what came naturally to do what was best for their relationship. That was definitely a sign.

The kiss to his palm didn't go unnoticed either, and Rude was momentarily taken off-guard. He hadn't really thought Reno was a 'small show of affection' sort of guy, but he certainly wasn't going to complain. The constant apologizing, however...

Rude firmly believed in saying what needed to be said and little else. Reno, of course, was the opposite. The redhead had already apologized once, and while Rude was fairly certain he just wanted to get his point across, the man's berating toward himself simply wasn't right.

"I know and I forgive you."

Maybe if he repeated things, it would be enough...