evil-diabolical-oops:

I have a surprising amount to say about this short bit after they pick Andrew up at Easthaven. First, Neil takes a literal back seat when Andrew returns. After months of basically leading the monsters, he passes control right back to Andrew. He doesn’t even get shot gun. And he does this without protest, nothing to disrupt Andrew’s reintegration to the group. He’s not going to “take” from Andrew.

Second, Neil’s in pain (thanks, Nicky, for gripping his wrist) from the abuse he suffered at Evermore. Plus, the music is giving him a headache, but Neil “I’m Fine” Josten isn’t going to complain. He’s been through worse. He’s used to this, which I find incredibly sad. 

Last, Neil is also aware that Andrew is under the microscope, so to speak. Everyone wants to see how Andrew is going to act now that he’s sober. Neil’s reluctance to complain is most likely driven by the fact he knows Andrew needs that sound barrier against the others in what has to be an incredibly awkward car ride for him. Neil is prioritizing Andrew above himself.

What a pipe dream.