[The hands slamming on the table grabs Venom's attention. He turns to face Phoenix, only to be met with an intense look, one that softens in time.

Where does he even begin to respond to that? Phoenix doesn't understand anything about him, and as much as Venom wants to reach out, he knows he can't. It'll just cause more unnecessary pain for all of them. He knows he can be anything here, but his past still haunts him, and remembering some of the reactions before... it hurts.]

I don't know.

[He pauses, crossing his arms.]

Because I've never felt anything like this before. But I know what happens if I stay. I'll get in the way of your happiness.

[And he's not just referring to Phoenix. That goes for Miles, as well. Having his own feelings never worked out, so this is the best choice. Friendships are one thing, but people like him don't deserve to have the love and respect a partner can bring.]

My feelings here don't matter. Now please let me leave with my dignity.

[He turns away, but it's obvious that tears have started to roll down his cheeks, the tiny droplets peeking through that curtain of hair.]