In his experience, this wasn't the type of thing to be helped, but he didn't say that. Instead he did his best to push the heavy thoughts away, and instead return to focusing on the matter at hand. "Thanks." And that was that.

He cleared his throat, suddenly aware of how effectively he'd killed what good mood had been in the air. He pulled the smile back, smaller this time, and truer. "Shall we get back to the welcoming parade?"