[ he might be the scariest cat that lighter has ever met in his life. leaks wouldn't mind that distinction; it's something he's prided himself on no matter where he's gone. he's seen plenty of worlds, some more broken than others. this one seems much more pleasant from the get-go.

which is why he... carefully moves over, on all fours, to place a hand on lighter's shoulder before he can go. those claws delicately land upon skin but don't dig. not yet. ]

Stay.

[ followed by a sigh that tries to conceal its choked nature but comes out conflicted and unsure. ]

I do not know if I will get another chance to see another person for... perhaps, a long time.

[ and then a beat: ]

Unless you are allergic.