Curt realizes now that he was already building a life with Patrick inside of his head — and a great part of that life included being able to protect Patrick, to care for him, to show him what a great wonder he is and to make him feel valued and loved and appreciated. Because no, he hadn't told Patrick yet, and yes, maybe he's been misinterpreting everything about the talks that they've shared — but even if Patrick doesn't want him when Curt is back on earth, Curt has decided that he will be there for Patrick. His friend, his coworker, his companion — and more if Patrick will let him.
