Normally, if Jake is sulking this much, Cougar would just kiss him to shut him up and get his brain to stop working so hard, but that's not an option. He's irritable with this shadow dust some more, because of what it's taking from him, and he hopes the springs will counteract it.

Only, then Jake goes and says a stupid thing. "You're important," is what he says firmly. "I need you." And he does, not just for what they're starting, but for everything else he does for Cougar. He keeps him balanced and sane, he translates, he interprets.

He's there. He's funny and kind and smart and he's what Cougar needs.