[he hears that unspoken word in the pause, and for a moment his hackles go up. he can hear That Voice telling him how weak he is, how useless ... but it's only echoes, and now they sound more like his father than the Goblin. given enough time, he might start to realize just how closely the two were intertwined, but this isn't the right moment for introspection in the least. Norman swallows, whatever sharpness had crept into his gaze melting into thoughtful concentration.]

Of course. If anyone does follow us, there's another exit at the back - it leads to the service stairwell.

[he pulls a rolling stool over toward the doorway, where he can perch just out of sight and listen for footsteps, watch for flashlights and shadows.]

I'm sorry I broke it, Otto. I -

[his voice catches on his guilt, and breaks]

I'm sorry about so much, so very much, and I'm sure - I'm absolutely sure you are, too. This ... we're so much more than this. Aren't we? Still? I want to believe we are.