He's comforted by the deliberate touch, more than he can even say. "My father was at least able to accomplish that."

Then, after a slight pause. "If he hears about this, he'll be worried. I know you have right to be angry with him, given what might have happened to other mages if his plan had worked, but do you think you can go see him later? To make sure he knows that for now I am still breathing."

He needs for Gereon to accept what will happen to him, but he doesn't want his father to worry needlessly without updated news.