[Oh... headpats... He halts for a second, obviously taken aback, before chuckling weakly.]

Ah -- no need for that, Lovecraft. Please, just... sit, if you'd like.

[He'll pat a spot next to him in the gardens.]

Yes, I'd say it is better. Though I could have lived without it, I'm much more resolved with it in place. It makes things feel less... pointless, in a way.