Regardless of the consistent vagueness, she told him that she already thought well of him. Sahalie had said it too, several times, that she was confident he was a good wolf. Maybe it was only because they couldn't see as deeply down inside himself as he did, but it still was reassuring to hear, and a thankful smile tugged at his lips.
It fell away as she placed her paw overtop of his, and pressed her muzzle into his fur. Both were unfamiliar gestures, and certainly were far more intimate than he was accustomed to, leaving the boy unsure on how to react. His ears had twisted at her words, the concern she felt laced heavily through each of them. Hurt? He couldn't imagine it happening, and had to wonder why she thought it would be so dangerous. Then again, he'd never witnessed the taking of a rank. While he did not expect Nicolo nor Renier to harm him, he knew they would not be willing to submit.
It did not affect his resolve.
"Don't worry about me," he assured her softly, gingerly and briefly pressing his muzzle against her temple. When he pulled back, he tried to catch her eyes and gave her a grin.
"I'm much tougher than I look."