The one thing Jack appreciated about Ianto (even more than his skills at the coffee maker) was his ability to soothe without a word being spoken. He stood there while Jack ranted, caught himself and sat back down, without nary a word said between them. Perhaps Ianto was the one man who understood more of Jack's mind than even he himself knew. When next Jack picked his head up, he noticed the closeness between them. So, perhaps, that first assessment of his hadn't been so far off.
Taking a chance, Jack raised his hand and lightly rested it on Ianto's hip, silently giving him permission to perch on the edge of the desk. He didn't remove his hand either, taking comfort in what he could feel, missing the man who stood beside him more than Jack cared to admit. Lately, too much had been the unknown and it was frustrating Jack. He liked proof, liked things he could hold, touch, and understand. Puzzles were enjoyable up to a point, particularly when he knew the solution was right around the corner. Not lurking somewhere in the dark, unknown if or when they'd ever find it. Jack obsessed? Never.
"Perhaps," Jack replied, not entirely convinced. "Well, you would know if there was a connection, wouldn't you?" Jack mused, more to himself than to Ianto. He didn't quite believe the whole 'few hours' bit, but god only knew how the rift operated. Hell, half the time he professed to know when he was doing nothing more than poking it and hoping for the best.
"Been here about a month," Jack said with a slight nod. "Suzie and Owen have been here the longest, though neither of them have said how long. But when I came, the Hub followed. Apparently the Rift comes with me no matter where I go." He shrugged, glancing upwards and giving Ianto a half-quirked smile. "Maybe all that doesn't matter. Maybe the Hub comes where it's needed. Lord knows this lot needs the help."