The lack of argument, the reason Steve attributes to it, and what he's learned about Zerxus over the time he's been here? Is a big part of why Steve did this. Not to come back to someone he loves (though he does) but because there's some hope in the fact that Zerxus is still, in spite of Asmodeus and sometimes even in spite of Zerxus himself, a good man.

He at least physically relaxes, even from the grim determination that had him prepared to fight with Zerxus if it comes to that. Leans back and breathes just a little deeper. Realizes, somewhere in that move that he doesn't really notice the heat or scent of the place unless he thinks about it.

That tone hurts his heart, but he doesn't reach out. Not yet, not even wanting to so badly his fingers twitch.

"I feel like there's some questions hiding in the one you asked." But meanwhile: "I'm going home until I'm done doing what I have to. Then I'm coming back and staying. With you."