Edwin accepted his handkerchief from Angie with one hand and patted her own hand with his other in a mild form of consolation, but it was done awkwardly. He was never sure what to do in these circumstances. No, that wasn't true - he knew how to comfort his wife when she was in distress. But Angie was not his wife, and he wasn't sure what would be appropriate.
Struggling to begin, Edwin finally began, "When I first arrived here, I was in an utter tizzy, but you and Miss Carter came to me in the infirmary to give me support. For that, I'm very grateful. I suppose... I've been selfish, thinking only about my own distress. I should be the one apologizing, not you." He grimaced, and added, "There isn't a solution, which makes it all the more frustrating. But... if we are strong together?"