As Joan starts unbuttoning his shirt, he puts a hand on hers to stop her, and instead just reaches for the tissues next to his bed, cleaning off the worst of it instead. While he can't hide the bruises on his face, he doesn't want her to look at the ones on his sides, which are definitely worse. He doesn't want either of them to have to think about that right now.

He hums thoughtfully at the question, adjusting his positioning on the bed, propping up some pillows behind him. After a bit of moving around, he manages to sit up partially on his side, propped up on an elbow to make sure he doesn't put much weight on his ribs, and still able to reach all the areas he needs while she lies next to him.

You'd think this kind of meticulous accommodation would be a mood-killer, but honestly, for him it just shows how eager and determined they are to enjoy each other's company, despite whatever inconvenience.

Before he actually starts touching her, he takes a moment to just look at her. Lying there, hot and bothered, waiting for him, looking at him with affection and still that satisfaction at making him come.

"You're so beautiful," he says softly, smiling gently down at her. "I love you so much."