Emerald eyes widen. It is a surprise he had not been expecting. His own skin is still a bit warm from the numerous small feedings of the night, and he hopes the heat is comforting while he closes his hand around Nathaniel's.

"I thought I could not be surprised so fully for at least a month following Asher's return. You've proven me wrong," he muses, trying to make the words a compliment as he rubs the back of Nathaniel's hand with his thumb. He could sense the wereleopard's fear; it radiated from every pore and seeped into his own hand.