[Hector beginning to cry against Everett only gets him held closer and pet more tenderly. One hand on his back, the other petting the back of his neck and hair. There's no shame in shedding tears to Everett, he won't hush Hector, won't tell him to collect himself, only encourage he feel all he can and not deny himself that emotion. What else could be the point of living and loving?]

Stay with me, if you wish. Have the study for yourself... bring your darling pets to keep with mine. No more shuffling over here at my beck and call, nor fretting you are overstaying. [he nuzzles his face to bury in Hector's soft hair, speaking in that quiet, sincere way]

I will make room for you, just as my heart has.