The one thing Jack (usually) managed to do was put on a brave face for the rest of them. It was the brave face that kept them all going, said that even when things were back he could handle it. But this? Right now? Jack was allowing himself that moment to let his guard down, knowing that Gwen could handle it -- even if he was supposed to be the one comforting her. Later, of course, the perfect smile would slide back into place, and Jack would pretend as if nothing was wrong.
But that would come later.
Jack held Gwen close, chin resting on the top of her head as he gently rocked them both back and forth. Lightly he rubbed her back, letting silence do the work words couldn't at the present.
"It may not seem like it, but it will get better. And it gets easier, I promise," Jack spoke, hiding the truth within the lie. He cupped her chin, tilting her head up to look at him. "You're strong enough, Gwen Cooper. You can get through this. I never would have brought you into the team if I thought you couldn't handle this and everything that comes with it."