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"Doctor, I have a request." Clara says, after an obvious bout of hesitation. The Doctor notes it clearly in their mind.
"What, have another time period you need for class?" They reply. They know that isn't what it is.
Clara steps around the console, aimlessly toying with the dials and switches she knew wouldn't mess with the current parked state. Pausing, she turns on her heel to them, mouth formed to start her sentence for a second, then, "Could you use he for me?"
The Doctor blinks. "What?"
"He. Could- could you use he, him pronouns for me." She seems to shrink into herself the more she talks- not physically, but they can see it. "Like...a boy. but not a boy. A..." Pressing her lips together, she pushes a smile. "Nevermind."
"No," the Doctor walks down the steps from the upper floor of the console room, holding a pile of books and dropping one down each step. They stop in front of Clara, who seems more shifty than usual. "No nevermind. You want me to call you he, I will call you he."
"Wait, really?"
The Doctor's brows go down. "Yes. Why wouldn't I?"
"Just...I don't particularly look like a he."
"And I dont particularly look like a they or she, but I'm still called that by certain people." The Doctor says, ignoring Clara's now added confusion. "Now, do you want me to only call you he?"
Clara takes a long moment, seemingly processing what they said. "...She is still fine. Just add he, if you'd like."
"I certainly would like." They let the last book drop right under the last step, putting their hands in their pockets with a flip of their coat. "I'd certainly like to make my Clara happy, seeing as he's my closest friend."
Clara's gasp is soundless, but visible. He gives a slow grin. "And the Doctor? They are mine."