Not worse than the senior Howe. Well. That's another something, and it has nothing on the fact that Nate's staying. Anders breathes out, only then realizing he'd been holding his breath. If Nate can stay, can talk to him and treat him like a friend, then Anders isn't completely gone. That's what it has to mean.

He looks back at Nate, trying to keep his expression light and not desperate or overly intent.

"Good." Thank you would make it too personal, and Anders already feels like he's opened up to an extreme amount. "Then if that's settled, we should deal with the occupant who isn't welcome." Nate's chin gets a nod of Anders' head.

"I'll show you my room, so you can drop off your things, and then take you down to the hot springs and leave you there? Unless you're staying for company and the road has been long and lonely." There's the faintest smirk on his face. He knows Nate's not interested, which makes the teasing safe.