"I'm panicking because this is a risk, and you know I avoid risk. And it's been so long, I'm not sure I'll be good at anything. The relationship parts in general. I was happy with Betty and we were great together, but that was a simpler time." Risk is terrifying. The good and bad potentials are both equally anxiety-provoking for him. It's a blend of caution and low self-esteem that's tying him into knots. It's easier when they're together, because all he can think about is how he wants to be with her. Separated, the doubts gnaw at him.

"I'm also ...." Bruce bites his lip and then looks over at Tony with a faint smile. "You're the best friend I could ask for, Tony, and I know you are willing to do a lot for me. But I don't want to put you in a bad place with what's gone on between you. I wouldn't ask that from you." It's not that he doubts Tony is going to do it for him, but rather in general, he wants Tony to be happy and okay. Considering he came down on him pretty hard about Bull, albeit for different reasons, it's a precarious balancing act of how much he can expect from his friend. Or how much he should.