Mav ran a hand through his tangled hair; mumbling a quick "Morning Goose," to a very confused Silder who soon shrugged and walked off. He walked into the kitchen and filled up a cup of warm water before adding a tea bag. He sighed softly, leaning against the counter. His eyes were half-lidded, accompanied by dark bags under his eyes, and his clothes were wrinkled. He probably stank, but he was too sick physically (and mentally) to care right now.

Iceman walked out of his room a bit later, shirtless and in a pair of baggy white shorts. "Mornin', Slider," he greeted his best friend, quickly raising an eyebrow when he saw his confused expression. "Everything ok?"

Slider shook his head, snapping out of his confused state, his expression becoming more tender and concerned. "Yeah, just-... Mav called me Goose."

Ice took a sharp intake and scoffed softly. "Right... he's going through a lot, just... give him some space, yeah? I'll talk to him."

Slider nodded. "Will do. See ya, Ice."

Ice simply hummed in return, watching Slider turn and walk away. He sighed gently before walking towards the kitchen. Sure enough, Mav's pitiful form was hunched over, gently rubbing the dog tags, him not even realising the action.

"Maverick?" Ice called out gently, gaining Mav's attention as he walked over, standing in front of him.

"Huh? Yeah, Ice..?" Mav returned as he got torn away from his thoughts and looked up, his voice hoarse to the point he didn't even recognise himself anymore.

Ice gently intertwined their hands and rubbed the back of Mav's with his thumb. "You called Slider 'Goose' again, darling..."

Mav's eyes widened just slightly and he looked away, pain filling his expression. "Oh..."

Ice sighed, taking the now-empty tea cup out of Mav's hands. He gently wrapped his arms around Mav's waist, holding him close. "It's ok... let it out."

Those words were the only thing Mav needed. He broke down, shaking and sobbing into Ice's shoulder.