He couldn't help but roll his eyes. "It's not going to hurt me. And you haven't. And before you say it, I am not having that argument for the hundredth time. We all chose to be there with you. So stop thinking the things I know you are." Enjolras was many things. And predictable was a big one of those. Or maybe he just knew his friend that well.
"You know you would only be disappointed if I didn't mock you at least once," he replied with the smallest of teasing smiles. But he and Eponine were going to have the day the two of them deserved.
Those words were simply a repeat of the same ones that had been said to him from more than one direction lately. And more than once from his friend. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to find the words to explain himself. "I'm not running." Okay, no. That was a lie. "I mean. It's not that I mean to. It's just not that easy, saying it's a choice. It doesn't always feel like a choice." Or maybe he'd become so accustomed to choosing the easier path it didn't feel like the alternative was even an option any more. "And...I miss her." As though those three words could sum up everything he felt. They didn't come close. And she deserved so much more than any explanation he could give. "I tried, Enjolras. I did."