Despite himself, Wash finds himself smiling. Somehow, he feels like the unbearable tension is starting to break -- that even though this is all still difficult, they'll get through it. Just like they've gotten through everything else.

"Yeah, but so am I," Wash says. He takes a step forward, shifting to lean against the opposite counter. "You know that better than anybody. And you put up with me anyway." He shrugs, and his smile gets a little sheepish. "Is it that surprising I like you?"