[It goes without saying that Harque is not used to physical affection from anyone other than his own sibling, and for the purposes of romance and intimacy, that doesn't count. Vic hugs him, and Harque simply isn't sure what's happening. It's far, far different from the people that visit and try to court him, where they try to touch him in the most shallow possible ways. Harque can't place it (it's because he has a big fat crush), but he's calm enough around Vic to lean back into his embrace.]

Victor, my dear? ...ah, have I been ignoring you today? I'm sorry.

[Vic is not a pet but a friend, even if no one else sees it that way; still, Harque can't ignore his friend, can he? He reaches back with one hand to pet Vic blindly behind the ears, softly bonking their heads together.]

Here. Is this better? I can stop studying for a while if you'd like.