[Carter shakes his head tersely and risks a look up at her from under his hair.]

No, I just had handlers. You know, like other special kids. 'Cause we're too important to be wasted, that kinda crap.

[His eyes are very cold and empty. He know damn well he's just a tool to his government. He glances at Lily, and some warmth comes back.]

Just handlers. But you have a dad, that's great! I'm sure he'll come back.

[He flashes her a smile, then looks down at the floor again and wills himself to feel more neutrally. ]