[ Coddling is mere distraction, bandaid for broken bones, an impermanent solution to a permanent problem, when Misato believes she has mastered the art of sublimating her trauma into something productive: motivation for her sterling career, fuel for the fire, her indefatigable drive to save the entire human race. Freud would be proud and horrified in equal measure.

She's someone who takes a microscope to her own thoughts with a merciless eye, and also someone who acts before thinking, examining her intentions only later, days and weeks after. Right now, she knows only that she would rather not be alone when she has had a nightmare like his.

She tips her chin down to look at him, as quiet and impassive as she has ever been. ]

You're stuck on loop, Damon. When you're awake, you pretend it doesn't bother you, but in your sleep, you can't help but wallow.