[ A more genuine smile tugs at his lips. Reginald would have sooner ripped out his own tongue than given out a compliment like that, and her reaction makes him wonder how that would have felt to hear it as a kid. It's surprisingly reaffirming. He's not his father, so maybe he can train someone without scarring them for life.

Her offer goes a step further in endearing her to him, and gives an amused huff at the imagery. Without asking, she knows exactly how she can help. It's rare that he's run into that kind of loyalty outside of the family, and it means something to have someone on his side to look out for each other. ]

Thanks for the pep talk. [ He regrets making her worry, but at least now he won't have to explain whatever happens to him after Wrath does the ritual. Kamala is a smart kid, she would have figured it out anyway. More than that; he prefers Allison having someone that can give her the kind of emotional support that he lacks. ]

...You're important to her. She's been through a lot. More than I could make up for, so it's good that she has you.