Morgan failed utterly to notice her until the moment her shoulder touches his. He probably would have still failed had he been active and alert, his vision uncleared and his attention on his surroundings.

But Morgan was very used to his own perceptual failures. So when he felt the pressure of her against him, he didn't jump or startle; he just leaned back into her slightly. He might have come here to be alone, but even he knew that what he wanted and what he needed were two very different beasts. It went against his nature to seek out people for comfort, not when he was supposed to be the strong capable one who helped people. But clearly she was offering, of her own free will and not at any request of his. He'd take it.

"Stephen was repodded," he said, swiping at his eyes with his free hand. Tears were a distraction from talking, and he wasn't going to beat around the bush with this. She'd not only met the Etherite, but had understood very quickly the nature of his friendship with Morgan.