Scorpius lets out a laugh of relief, hugging Albus back just as tightly. "Dead or worse, definitely. How'd you get all the way to Plan O already?"

He pulls back from the hug, but doesn't go far, not really wanting to let go. Just like that, he's not facing this alone, and just like that, it seems so much more bearable. Reluctantly, he drops his arms from around Albus. "Come on, then, let's find somewhere to talk."