[The first thought he has is that no part of this is easy, and he almost shares this opinion with Eames, but he stops himself. He can be more of an adult about this.]

I'm not settling. I have feelings for you because you're my best friend and I like being with you and it's not even like I get to choose this kind of stuff but even if I did you're not nearly as terrible as you make yourself out to be. You're really special, actually.

[He puts his hands back on his hips and gives Eames a mixed look of concern and exhaustion.]

Besides, when have you ever known me to settle for anything?