I didn't. Jack keeps the words held on the tip of his tongue, but it's a near thing. Because even with Gray in his arms (which feels more like a dream than anything else here has, even getting trapped in John's memory), he can't let himself any credit. Especially when it's clear to him that even disregarding however much time has passed that would change anyone as time does, something in his little brother has been broken, terribly. He's seen it--felt it--too many times not to recognize it, especially in the one person he was supposed to protect over anyone else.

He has a suspicion about what started the damage, even if it wasn't wholly to blame, but he can't ask. Not even just because of how dangerous it would be in this particular place, but not ever. He can't do that to Gray, to himself--can't have one of his worst fears confirmed.

So he does the one thing he can, the one thing he's done so very well since that day. He lies. Maybe it's kinder than other lies he's told, and maybe it will be true, but he knows it's not entirely right now. But he'll do his damndest to make it true.

"It's okay," he whispers, tightening his hold--to help Gray come back to himself or to reassure himself this is really happening, he's not quite sure. "It's okay Gray. It's okay. You're safe. And I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying here. I'll always be here for you." At least that part's true, and this time he doesn't feel like it's anything but a gift.