The last thing on Jeff's mind was having the upper hand at this point. Despite everything, Jeff wasn't heartless, and seeing Nick in the hospital bed did something to him that he couldn't explain. Nick just looked so much smaller and more vulnerable in that bed... Nothing at all like the kid Jeff had spent the majority of high school fighting with, sometimes physically, and nothing at all like the fierce, passionate guy who'd had his way with him on the elevator.

"That's... that's good. You definitely look better... You know, considering that the last time I saw you, you weren't conscious." He shrugged, shaking his head. "No need to thank me, man... I just... I know we've never gotten along well, but that doesn't mean I wanted you to... like... check out or anything." He stood there awkwardly for a moment. "Seriously, though. I'm glad you're okay... I didn't know you... um... had a boyfriend."