'When you want them to be' was really all relative, but John didn't press that issue. Ray had happier life experiences, and he was already hoping he didn't sour any of those for the other man simply with his own pessimism. It was truly gonna be an uphill battle within himself though.
But Ray's reaction to his decision made any doubts worth it. The way the other man's face lit up, that gleam in his eyes that John was starting to recognize truly only happened around him--when had he become so special to Ray? How hadn't he noticed?--it was all very satisfying.
"I would," John reiterated, just to make sure Ray knew he was serious. And Christ, Ray was already considering his comforts which was new. He'd had partners he could trust in the past, but the bad had far outweighed the good. "Ray? Just bloody be yourself. The rest will work itself out." If they could both stop worrying so much maybe this would work. Or maybe that was the alcohol talking.