[ For the Doctor, it's been so many hundreds of years, really, since he felt the kind of connection he truly wants. The problem is, he can't let himself get too terribly close to anyone. He outlives all of them, and though he quite selfishly wants more than he's had or ever allowed himself, he's also a self-preservationist.

He gets attached to people easily, this is true, but then he very carefully protects himself from anything deeper. That bit of madness and flippancy on the surface is hiding quite a bit more underneath. ]

Oh, well, now, you've just become my favorite! I mean, you were nearly there already, now you've done it.

[ He does allow the tap to his nose; an affectionately familiar gesture he's used on friends himself, more than once. ]

Careful, though, letting that get out. Now, there's the matter of the bunk beds - be a bit lonely without company so I'll expect you joining me at least a few nights a week. The fun we'll have, imagine it.