[It's amazing what a good hunk of denial and determination can do for you. ]

Don't mention it. I'm just sorry you couldn't find her. I know it's hard to be without the people who matter a lot here.

[He'd give anything to have his group here. They're his family, and they deserve this relatively pleasant break from all the horror they're living in. He's been with them for years at this point, and their absence in his life now is very much felt.]