[His fingers curl into a fist as the warmth and weight of Ed's hand leaves them. It's hard to keep from closing the gap and gently taking him by the wrist, seeking any and all reassurance Ed is able and willing to provide. He's missed them, the casual shoulder claps, a warm grip on his forearm, the press of their bodies together in a hug.]

If anyone can make this happen, it's you... [clearly] and if you're able to work some magic and pull this off, that would be...[he shakes his head incredulously] ...a tremendous relief, to say the least.

[He wets his lips and leans in conspiratorially.] Care to share with the rest of the class? Or am I just gonna have to wait and see?