Calliope listened patiently, without showing and doubt or surprise, but also they didn't try to console Darius of his solitude or his perceived undesirability. They just accepted his truth, the way it was shaped. All the offered, with a small smile "Everyone likes being wanted. It spares us the work of liking ourselves." Which clearly Darius didn't do, but they limited themselves to imply it.

Calliope nodded, and specified "but he is not. And you are over that, whatever it was. It is over, and you have a new friend" they put a certain finality in their tone, adding another caress.