Finn raises a hand (his right hand) before just as quickly letting it fall to his side.

“No, no. I got it. I know the way.” His tone was strangely flat, lacking any sign that Jake’s quick, light hearted response had had effect. Normally it would have worked. Something big, or scary or unsettling enough to shake him would be quickly met by Jake with a joke, an offered meal, a warm bit of comfort or praise that would make Finn smile or buffer away the threat of rumination. What else were big brothers for?

But now there was….a wall. It wasn’t insurmountable, but it was sturdy. Significant. They could both feel it.

“I won’t be long.” He turns and descends the wooden ladder behind him, hand over hand, disappearing from view.