He lets out a soft noise when Zach mentions having to watch his back all the time. The sound is nothing intelligible, and is his effort to not sound too over protective of the young man. [i]'If I start molly coddling he's more likely to close up than if I treat him as if he knows how to take care of himself. Street kids feel the need to be strong all the time'[/i] He raises an eyebrow at the boy's last comment, a small twinge running through his chest. However, the twinge is truly mixed in it's effect. [i]'He sounds so defeated'[/i] he muses, watching the boy silently as he thinks. [i]'It's odd. Most kids take a while to get to know. He looks tough, so he doesn't seem to be one who's needed to rely on his looks or timidness to get by. Though, he could be kinda new, and that would explain how he has as of yet to develop a full front around others'[/i] He mentally shakes his head. [i]'I'm just over thinking it. It's obvious he is in need, and making an effort to get the help he needs. I should stop doubting him'[/i]

He smiles warmly at Zach, bringing a hand up to touch him on the arm gently. “I do see a lot of lost young ones in need of a little help.” He lets his hand move to his plate, turning it so the meat is closest to him. “I am always surprised at the resilience of young people. The things you all go through, and still you never lose yourselves.” He beams at his guest. “The fact that you can relax here, that you trust enough to let your guard down so quickly, only shows how your confidence is not broken. It takes more strength to trust, than to doubt.” With that he cuts a bite sized piece of meatloaf with his fork, stabs it, scoops up some mash potatoes with it, and puts the whole mess into his mouth. A bit of the gravy drips down his chin, but he ignores it in favor of pouring himself a cup of tea.