"Of course," Paul assented readily, concern tight in his chest as he guided James through the tables to a pair of seats at the side of the square, slightly apart from the rest. Perfectly within view, so that propriety was observed, but separate enough that their conversation would not be overheard.
Remembering James' reaction to touch when he'd been overemotional before, Paul reluctantly withdrew his hands, folding them loosely in his lap so that James could reach them easily if he needed to. If he wanted to. "Do you need water?"