He wanted that. It was plain to see in the twitch of ears that he wanted so badly to be able to sink into the comfort of touch, of simple affection. But if he did... he feared what would happen should he allow himself that give. That the dam may break and he would be consumed by everything that he had to deal with. Hythlodaeus might not be privy to his thoughts, but it was likely clear enough in his posture.

"I... shouldn't impose on you. Not any more than I already am..." He didn't sound convinced even as he said it, whatever the case. It was clear enough that Hythlodaeus was absolutely correct in his assumption.