At first, he had tried showing Robby how much he wanted to be there for him. How much he wanted all of whatever it was that the older man was holding back for fear of... something. None of that had worked up until this moment. And he knew — he knew — that being cared for was something that Robby wanted and needed. Everyone needed it. Why not let it be him?
And so he finally just came out at said it. Point blank. No room for questioning things or confusion. Bill could be brave enough for them both. Thankfully, it didn't seem like the Chief Attending was all that against the idea.
"Well, a lot of my patients have TBIs or have had something completely life-altering happen to them. I'm used to them hating me at least a little— At least I know you don't hate me," he replied warmly, fingers reaching out to touch. To hold. If he felt like he needed the contact to keep himself grounded, he figured that Michael might too. "I'm happy to walk you through it. You know; see one, do one, teach one," Billy teased as he stepped closer, wanting to be in the taller man's space. Close. It was all part of taking care of him. Definitely not selfish at all.
"Maybe we can start by you letting me cook for you? I'm pretty good at it," he suggested with a smile, chin tilting upwards to press a kiss to his bearded jaw. "And letting me clean up after, too. And maybe we can talk about what's got you looking so sad lately." The last part was stated softly, almost murmured as if he was afraid it would scare Michael away. "I promise I'm not gonna go anywhere."