"Thank you."

His opposite hand comes to meet the straining claws, pad of his finger gently tapping against sharp points.

Momentarily, Ellis thinks to reiterate the point, but to press the sentiment (I care for you as well) will tarnish it. This quiet gratitude will have to serve in place of further attempts at driving the point home.

"There should be something I can do for you, in return for all of this."

Keeping his secrets. Protecting his friends. Offering reassurance time and again.