Emberwood don't you worry, we'll all float on alright

Ali swore he felt a little lightheaded when Lennon called him beyond perfect. He was quiet for a time, enjoying their proximity, but he was not entirely without expression. The boy nuzzled into his companion, licked the soft thick fur around his face, anything to show his enjoyment and affection. He never wanted Lennon to doubt that he adored him.
When the silence had stretched just past what could be called a pause in conversation, he spoke again. His thoughts had wandered back to Lennon's words. Who did you lose?
The question was quiet, undemanding, but Alarian hoped he would answer. Even if he could never heal such a grief-- none could, he knew-- the boy wanted to know. He wanted to soothe it, at least.