[He grasps his hand tightly, inching closer. He's not typically as physical as Mettaton, but now he's clinging to his hand like it's a lifeline. Aside from Connor, Mettaton's the person here who knows him best, and his relationship with him is infinitely more stable.]

I'm not good at fighting people either. There are other ways to be useful. Like-- you have really good ideas, and you bring people together. That's important.

[He doesn't outright say it, but the implication is clear; he wants him to stay.]