Yes, Avery's history. Avery, who did... something just for the sake of staying alive. Who stayed alive for ages after because he decided there was no way in hell he was going down by her hands.

He fakes another laugh all the same. But it's getting harder. His smile falters even if it doesn't fall.

"No, Avery, it's not selfish. You're not forcing me and..." With his arm back down his hand curls into a tight fist. "I don't want to die. I want to live a little longer. There are things I don't want to miss and there are people who it'd be nice to see more of. I don't think I could handle eternity or anything but..." But that's probably what his friend thought he had. Up until then. "I'm being careful. I'm trying. And I know I'd hate to lose anyone else just a much, so, no, not that selfish."