[ Her hand massages into his shoulder in a way she hopes is supportive and soothing, and she keeps her voice soft for him. ]

We all... try to tell others such things when we're ready, no more, no less... [ Hindsight might give them the wisdom to know that they should have told such things sooner, but their past selves can't be blamed for behaving in what they felt was best at the time-- especially if it's out of worry for causing distress in the other person. ]

You're sorry that it took so long, though. I think that-- I think that's something he can understand. [ There's no guidebook on how to tell your best friend you're going to die. ]