He didn't let go. He only held her tighter before he managed to get her twisted in his arms and pulled her tight against his chest. "I know. I know, T.J. Just, shhh. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. It was stupid and I'm stupid and an idiot," he assured her, knowing he was taking a risk in getting severely injured by her.

"C'mon. You're one of my best mates." He continued to hold her tightly. "T.J., you're beautiful. Okay? I know you think I'm wrong and I'm dumb and I'm blind and you can't possibly be anything but hideous, but you're gorgeous," he told her. "I don't even...it didn't even occur to me. It's just...it was a stupid comment. And you need to just let it go, alright?"

He loosened his grip, just a little. Just enough for her to escape if she really wanted to. But he wasn't done holding her. Not yet.