[There's a moment after Anders says the first, that Alex simply stares at him; completely at a loss for words. He'd never once considered that someone might be able to heal him of the virus that had taken over his body. He runs his tongue over his to wet them, and tucks a small section of hair that's escaped his braid back behind his ear. After a pause he speaks again.]

I'd honestly never even considered the possibility before .. it's not curable back home. I've been through nearly four years of shifting and becoming accustomed to everything the lycanthropy brings with it. I'd never thought that there could maybe be another option .. [He exhales in a soft whistle, chewing on the inside of his cheek.] There's pros and cons, you know? [Another moment of silence and then his blue-green gaze focuses on Anders once more and he's smiling again.] I tend to think life only gives you as much as you can handle, both good and bad. I think right now I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing and I am what I am for a very specific reason. No, every day isnt fun and yes i have to be careful when I'm around people, but life was never made out to be fair or easy.

[His gaze is warm and his tone is clearly touched and grateful.] Maybe some day, but for now I think I'm okay .. even taking into account my monthly issue. You've given me an option I've never dared even hope for, Anders. [His lips quirk into a grin and he gives half a shrug.] maybe I'm being dumb for declining that option right now and hell, I might regret it at some point .. but I never even had that choice until now. Could I perhaps rain check you, should circumstances change?

[And maybe they never would. But if they did it would be nice to finally have a choice. Maybe it would fail in a glorious ball of flames, but maybe it wouldn't. Life had a way of twisting and turning at the strangest moments.]

[Then his expression sobers, though the warmth at no time leaves his gaze.]

Oh, the absolute most serious, I should say.