"It's not all that different from women, except for the sex. Perhaps more of its own unique minefields on planets with antiquated gender roles," Ivan offers in an attempt to be reassuring, fingers threading through David's hair. "There's always the assumption of machoism or inability to express emotions or talk frankly about a relationship, but none of those are unique to a relationship between men."

He's silent for a moment or two, and offers: "Why don't we set aside time near the end of every session for questions or whatever you want to do? You're making good progress as is-- but sometimes we don't account for everything."