Still held. Ellis' grip doesn't waver, even after Silas bequeaths this begrudging reassurance.

Instead, Ellis studies Silas' expression. His thumb passes back and forth along Silas' palm as he scrutinizes his face, weighs up the careful boundaries of this new agreement. Silas is clever. Ellis understands that he's left himself loopholes.

On his shoulder, Thot hops in close to the collar of his jacket. The scar at his neck is masked by the folds of his scarf.

"Alright."

Recognition that maybe he's elicited the most he'll get from Silas.