[ for a split second, he actually gives that thought -- the irony of asking james t. kirk for romantic advice isn't lost on him -- but then it's gone. this isn't something that a talk can work out, and definitely isn't something that can be rushed. it is what it is. he just has to relearn to deal with it. ]

If it wouldn't break the temporal prime directive into tiny little pieces, I'd do more than consider it. [ but as it is... ] I appreciate your offer. I think for now... this is something I need to work through. Maybe another time.