Cole will never tell Ben what to do. He will argue for why something is a better choice, but Ben is his own person and can decide for himself.

It's stilla relief when Ben decide to put himself and Them above someone asking him to come with them on a mission. Ben hates missions and they scar him every time scars his soul and scars Them in ways that even Cole can't quite perceive.

"I'm so proud you," he whispers into Ben's temple, still holding him. Rubbing his back. "For looking after you and Them. They need you to do that. I don't need you to look after you, but it makes me happier that you have."