"I know..." he says quietly. It was tough being on his own and surviving, but he was nearly used to it. It was a programmed reflex, survival. One he hadn't had before but he definitely had now. He lets out a breath and lets a smile creep into his voice, "Not alone if I can still call you." This helped, hearing her. It gave him some hope to keep going that someday he'd have her to come home to.
His hand gripped the phone cord as if he could hold on to her through the phone, "I love you too, Betty. I miss you.....I said that already." He ducks his head, sounding sheepish for being so mushy.