[Fern's metaphorical heart absolutely sinks at what Reaper says, and he looks frustrated and more than a little insecure.] Dog, there's no way I could do that. [He's a good fighter, sure, but he'd absolutely get killed if he tried, he doesn't doubt that for a second.

So cool, it's all on him to fail if Reaper decides to off the entire house one day. That's great, that's more guilt he can pile onto his shoulders. He had gotten lucky with Eda, and failed with Maul, and Sweet P., and he'd fail here, too.

Of course, this is all his fault in the first place, a voice in the back of his head is telling himself. For getting so unhealthily attached to adults who give him the slightest bit of attention, and offering Reaper a roof when the dream started breaking down. He should have been better about all of this, and not so desperately selfish.]

I don't know! [He's kind of snapping that, because he's having a great time right now.] Maybe it's not the safest thing having you here right now, dude! None of us can trust anything here, and relying on me if something bad happens is just asking for trouble.