[He knows as much-- perhaps not to the full extent those feelings run, of course, but he's known Keith's protectiveness very well since even before all of this. And never, in a million years, would he ever wish for Keith to have been there with him if it meant he'd have to go through all these issues, too. Better this way, if only because it meant Keith was safe.]
[He lifts his hand after a moment, mirroring Keith's touch and cupping his hand at the back of Keith's neck, leaning forward and bumping his forehead to his briefly, affectionately, before dropping his head down to rest against Keith's shoulder, not quite a hug but just-- seeking that comfort.]