[ stop turning all these threads DEPRESSING, anna!!!!!

The honesty is appreciated,and even if Eustace thinks that particular belief is stupid as hell he can see where the other man is coming from. Given his nature and predilections, it's not hard to think that his existence might cause strain in an otherwise happy community. (And almost had, if Eustace hadn't made an attempt to fix his own misconceptions.)

D's Feels™ are cute at least, the very faint tendrils Eustace can sense enough to make him smile a little (but on the inside, where D can't see, thus saving them both the embarrassment of having to be Perceived). ]

You're always welcome, burden or not.

[ This once, he feels like he can speak for everyone in the house.

But as for him… Cue another five seconds of silence as they walk along. (Are they ever going to make it to the pet store at this rate…) ]

I traveled with a group before this, even though I knew I wouldn't always be able to stay by their side. [ Wow, look at him offering up all this information about himself free of charge. ] There hasn't been a lot of permanence in my life up until now. [ And somehow his tone of voice seems to suggest he still doesn't expect any. ] I'm grateful for what I've been given, and the experiences I've had.

[ He glances over at D, somber. ]

So yes, I'm grateful to have met everyone as well.

[ Even if it means they will never see each other again after all this is concluded. ]