[ Eddie was pretty sure he wasn't breathing. He'd covered his mouth, and sat very, very still, listening to what Richie was saying and working up the courage to respond. ]
So you—[ And he had to clear his throat to keep his voice from shaking. It only worked a little. ] You feel better around all of us ... but you feel safer around me. Is what you're, um. Saying. To me. Right now. To clarify. For the record.