[ John is still surprised at all the questions. Zed is the only other person in recent times that has taken so well to all of this. No argument, just a listening ear. Okay, maybe a little push but mostly curiosity. ]

I suppose I can be nice when I want to be. Don't let anyone know about it, though. It'll murder my reputation.

[ John can't imagine that amount of time without the person that shared part of one's soul. He's still reeling from the loss of Natalie. From Desmond. It aches just the same as the day it happens. Whoever says time heals all wounds never honestly got hurt once in their bloody life, he's certain of it. ]

In some places they do. I know what you mean, I think. I know what it's like to try and describe things that can't possibly be explained. I do my best. All you really can do.

Not really sure what calls to them. Might be a little of both. A dash of a person's guilt and a lot of unfinished business. They hang on cause they feel a need to. Or maybe someone else needs them to, who knows?

[ He senses some guilt and trepidation there in Matt. Gently, he clears his throat. ]

There, uh, someone you're worried you're still carrying around?

[ John already knows but he hasn't said. How does one bring that up exactly? ]