[Their talons curl around his hands gently, still framing their own face.

It's strange. Logically, it makes sense that Rue has played such a pivotal role in Casey's development in this world. They've been right there for those big moments, been patient and understanding and happy to listen to everything Casey has ever been willing to tell them. They've wiped away more tears than they can count, but have also laughed at least double that alongside of him. They've helped him to learn to embrace his past while never losing sight of the beautiful future ahead.

And all of it has been such a joy for them, to not only have this young man in their life, but to be able to watch him grow and find his confidence, to figure out his sense of style, his passions. To find people he cares for, hobbies he's interested in, and maybe even to rediscover a reason to hope all over again.

But even after all of that, to think Casey sees them in such a way, it feels surprising to Rue, in a way even they struggle to articulate.

Their paws squeeze around his hands.]

I appreciate your words, but you never needed me, Casey. You would have gotten right back to here even without me. But - [a gentle hitch, their big eyes are shining and maybe just a touch still wet.] But I'm still so very glad that you didn't have to. That we could be there for one another. That you did not have to confront all that you've had to face alone.

You trusting me as much as you have is one of the greatest blessings of my life, Casey Jones.