It's harder to prepare here, when they never know what they might be facing. At home at least the dead are a stable threat-- dangerous, sure, but they know how to deal with them. The living are more dangerous, but still, there are ways to be ready, to stay safe. Even so... It's worth it, he thinks, this place. He has to believe it. Back home, no matter how long they make it, he doesn't think they're going to live to see things get this good again. The only regret he's got is that he can't bring everyone, can't keep them here.

He might not have any control, might not be able to stay or to keep Carol or any of them with him, but he's gonna do his damnedest to do right by them while he can.

He nods, pulling back his arm and wiping the water off his hands on the leg of his jeans absently.

"Downstairs?"

He's not really married to the idea; he doesn't know if it'd be better or worse, facing anyone else who might be around.