It's basically just what he does when he pats the control panel inside her helm; a fond little touch to remind her he likes her.

Herc's not really sure how long he's been sitting here with Gipsy, but it's been long enough that the maintenance shift way down on the ground has had time to switch from morning to afternoon, and he really should be going.

"Well, Gipsy my dear, I think I need to be going now." He levers himself reluctantly to his feet, still leaning against her helm.