"I had thought it an appropriate gesture. Was I wrong?"

After all, it was partly because he was acting on feeling, and partly because he had observed that physical contact was a good way to convey one's feelings. Guilt, nostalgia, a slight bit of happiness, and more remorse...it was a confusing mix of emotions. Actions spoke louder than words, was it? Of course, it also helped that Alcor didn't quite mind initiating physical contact...just when he was receiving it. Nevertheless, he seemed to have shrugged it off, continuing to float toward their destination.