There was no way he could begin to explain himself to a person who regrets nothing. Erik's life was one built around remorse and guilt; guilt for surviving when so many died, guilt for being unable to protect them, guilt for living. Add onto all that the guilt he felt for what his vengeance had done to Charles. A man with no regrets couldn't possibly understand the need he felt to make that right at all costs. He owed it to Charles to spend the rest of his days looking after the man.

Since he could not articulate those sentiments, Erik simply breathed out a sigh and turned to help Charles up and into the bath. The first few times he'd done this, Erik felt a little awkward, but after a time it became routine. Even still, he was always polite and respectful of Charles' privacy. Erik never stared at his useless legs and was always mindful of his hands when lifting Charles in and out of the bath. Once he was settled in, Erik washed his hands in the sink and towelled them dry, all the while wondering how much effort it would take to remodel the bathroom so Charles would use it independently.

"If you want to talk, I'll be just outside."