[Clayton hums in understanding as he finally grasps the context of this whole post. His regret. No wonder.]

I'm sorry all the same. If somethin' like that happened to Gary, that'd be why I'm here, too - no question about it.

[A beat.]

I mean, it...kinda is. I guess. [Clayton shakes his head to clear it.] --Point is, I get where you're comin' from. It's rough, but...it'll be worth it. We just gotta power through for 'em.