He can't not smile when he looks over at Arik. He can't begin to fight it from his voice as he pushes his hands into his pockets to keep from touching her arm again.

She's so close. She's actually standing here. He already knows she's real; he doesn't deserve to confirm it again, no matter how much he's craving to.

"He's-- amazing." It's impossible not to be proud. It's impossible not to have the hurt cut through with genuine joy for the young man, at least. "He's doing well here, you know. We're-- we're looking out for him."

As completely devotedly as they could. It would never be the same as having both parents in one place.

"It's-- all right? Having him here?"