[When he does open his eyes, he keeps them focused away from her, avoiding the possibility of eye contact. He gives her shoulder a squeeze, though.]

No need.

...I know I can't fill his spot, nor do I want to. I just... [trails off, then starts abruptly, thoughts in a scrambled mess, slowly sounding less and less composed until his tone just drops to something low and dull yet harsh.] —there's no reason— I'm not going to sit back and watch you make horrible mistakes I've already made.