[He glances at her from the corner of his eye, then stares at his hands, thinking. He doesn't really want to lose her as anything.]

It's always been kind of...black and white for me. Steph as the only ex I've ever interacted with after a break up and that's...not exactly a model.

[He turns to look at her full on.] I'd rather we be friends than nothing. [And attempted smiles!] Sparring just didn't work out too well for us when this started.