Joly hugs back tight, and presses Autor's arm when his friend draws back. His own eyes are damp, but he laughs softly at Autor's words.

"I fear I'm not as clever as you think--but I will try. And I won't press, if you don't want to talk. Just-know that you can, always."

Joly pulls back himself, his hand still on Autor's arm. "And don't go trying to not worry me, either. I believe I've told you before, it's a lost cause; I always worry about my friends." He smiles as he says it. He knows it's ridiculous; but it's still true.