[Mike wrinkles his nose against every wild, reactive feeling her words summon up. He's had enough of lashing out, eyes watering, embarrassing himself in front of people he wants to respect him. But really, there's only so much he can do - some of the words, more mournful than angry, find their way out anyway.]

You can't promise anything, okay? Even if you mean it, you can't- [When there's no control - no ability to expect that the world won't completely implode five minutes from now - promises are only a gesture. An intent, empty a result. They'll only disappoint people. Because what is Nancy gonna do, come to work with him? Stick him in a bubble? The bad shit always finds a way to get you alone.]

No one can protect anyone here. [Grim, but assured.] You just have to be there after.