Blackfoot Forest how am I gonna be an optimist about this?;;

Alarian was quite comfortable curled up with Lennon; though he wasn't likely to say it, he wished they could do it more often. And not just when they were hurt.
He thought for a moment before answering the question, deciding to be honest about it. Bad things happen a lot. To me, anyway. I can't let myself not be fine-- you've seen why. The explanation was gentle but his tone was one of fact. Besides... I'm not alone anymore.
The boy smiled as he said it, though Lennon couldn't see it. I'd jump on a cougar again to see you both safe. It was only after he said it that he realized it was true.