[ The bit about being incapable of anything casual has Cisco opening his mouth in protest (he's probably had a hell of a lot more 'casual' company than Harry, even if he is only half his age - not that that's something he really ought to be boasting about). He catches himself, though, because he doubts anything between him and Harry could be casual. They already know each other too well, there's too much history there.

It's the first objection that strikes Cisco as valid, rather than patronizing, and it gives him pause. But that's the kind of snag that they can deal with later, not before they even give things a chance.

Just as he's resolving all over again not to let Harry push him away, still without answering the one question Cisco asked, Harry says something that makes Cisco's insides go cold. The stubborn, combative-but-fond look slips away from his face, replaced by genuine hurt, just for a moment. Then, Cisco covers it up with anger: not irritation or frustration, but real anger, this time. ]

Did you just call me 'his garbage'? [ Cisco knows that by reacting this way, he's proving Harry's point, and if he really wants to convince him to take a chance on the two of them, it's the last thing he should do. But he can't stop himself. Because all of a sudden, Cisco isn't even sure he wants that chance, after all. ]

Is that really how you think of me? Like I'm... like he's ruined me and now I'm just... damaged goods?

[ A tiny part of Cisco's mind whispers, unhelpfully: aren't you, though? ]