[it's a wonder that's all dick hears because these cell phones pick up practically everything; the true miracle is sizhui still has such control, even while pretty heavily intoxicated. for the most part anyway, taking the breathy, satisfied sigh into account, which says more than words ever could.]

Please hold a moment, [then he sets the phone face-down (smart!) and shucks off his sweater, tosses it aside, reaches to pick the phone back up as he's loosening his hair.] I listen in return, do my best to hear him out. Sometimes, we argue because he does things I don't like, but after I explain, once he understands there are unavoidable consequences... [sizhui momentarily trails off remembering his punishment from when they had gotten caught, the pain that'd followed, how many weeks it had taken to heal.] I'm also not trying to control him. You and I both know that isn't possible, although— [another beat of consideration then, caution thrown to the wind, he segues onward.] He seems to like my affection. And the praise.