Zev follows instructions obediently, but does pause every so often to touch Nova somehow, a brush against his side, or a press of lips to his head.

Nova leans into the touches, partially because he wants to, partially because he's scared Zev will stop if he doesn't.

It doesn't take them very long to have everything ready, and Aaren hands them their mugs, and carries a tray with everything else through into the living room.

Ira, perhaps surprisingly, has moved to be sat against Steve's legs, head resting against the arm of the chair.

Zev hands her a mug, and another for Steve.

Once he's settled back on the couch, he accepts one from Nova.

She nods her thanks, wraps her hands around the mug, and stares into it.

Nova folds against Zev's side again.

"Thank you, Zev," Steve says. "Aaren, I found a special on red pandas."

"You know me too well."

"They do seem to be our comfort animal," Zev says with a smile.

"They are rather soothing to watch," Steve agrees, accepting a scone off Aaren.

Well then, an afternoon watching documentaries seems to be in order!

Zev is happy to stay tucked against Nova's side, though he does notice a couple of hours later that his hand is throbbing. He puts his mug down to gingerly press against the broken knuckles. He's not particularly a doctor, but he's familiar with this particular injury.

Aaren notices, and glances at his watch. "Drex'll be here in an hour or so."

“That wasn’t necessary- ah. I mean, thank you.” Zev tucks his hand into his pocket, his chest feeling warm, even though he feels a little ashamed. 

“It usually heals up all right, I’ve had to strap it before. ‘Chelle did a good job.”

"Yes. But we can speed that up and stop you being in pain."

"Besides which, this one," Steve pokes Ira's head playfully, and she swipes vaguely at his hand. "Cut her palms open. And that does need fixing. So may as well see to you at the same time."

Zev can't deny that bit of logic, even as certain that Ira would think of her own injuries the way Zev did of his.

Ira rolls her eyes and gives Zev a wry smile.

"Well. It's decided then."

(As if it hadn't been decided before.)

"Did you want jam on your scone?"

Zev gives Ira a knowing look, and a smile of his own.

"Hmm. What kind of jam?" He looks at it curiously.

"Uh. Blackcurrant, strawberry or Jersey black butter. That one's like...apple, molasses, cinnamon..."

"Well, now I'm curious. Can I try that last one?" He sits up, looking at the jar like he's waiting for it to spill its secrets.

Aaren smiles. "Of course you can!"

Scone, butter, black butter, present to Zev.

"Nova?"

"I- I'm fine, thank you?"