[ Bad or weak, he's learned that sometimes it doesn't matter which it is. Both are dangerous when it comes down to it. But he also knows Gabe's position back home is so much more complicated than Daryl's own fight for survival in his world. Of course, Gabe needs the trying to matter, so Daryl nods against his forehead and makes sure that Gabe feels it. ]

It's mattered here.

[ Here, there are ways to measure it. Daryl is sure, more than ever, after his conversation with Bucky. ]

You and me. Carol, too. We been here, what, how long? A year?

[ There's a pang in Daryl's chest when he realizes what he's saying and again, his tail betrays him and squeezes Gabe a little tighter. ]

And we haven't changed. We don't normally look any different.

[ Not like the many he's seen with demonic changes they deserve. Not like Monika. ]

So it's mattered.