Balthier has the empathy to understand why being loved would matter to David, and Scions if he doesn't want to pour that affection onto the other. He just doesn't quite have the experience or affirmation to put together that David wants to do that for him in the same way.
He nearly protests David pulling away, even though he's the one who suggested moving, but then that hand is there and he's giving David an adoring smile, even with tears bright on his face.
"I want to rinse my face, put on something soft that smells of you, and have you hold me. I don't care where." He flushes a little as he says it, because he still feels uncomfortable being so direct about his desires. But David keeps meeting openness and boldness with affirmation, so he's trying. David makes him feel safe enough to try.
I'm good to wrap this one whenever
He nearly protests David pulling away, even though he's the one who suggested moving, but then that hand is there and he's giving David an adoring smile, even with tears bright on his face.
"I want to rinse my face, put on something soft that smells of you, and have you hold me. I don't care where." He flushes a little as he says it, because he still feels uncomfortable being so direct about his desires. But David keeps meeting openness and boldness with affirmation, so he's trying. David makes him feel safe enough to try.
here works then
Those desires, given so freely, will absolutely be met with action.