Of course Barrel has better options. Belladonna or, hell, just about anyone.

A partner who was soft and nice instead of sharp and difficult.

So when a ghoul pack arrived in town like normal, it didn't concern Lock at first, but when he saw that they were around their age, Barrel's age.

He got worried Barrel would go with them once they left, leave him behind.

So when Barrel got back from hanging out with the leader, Belladonna, and said she'd asked for him to join the pack, Lock went up to the roof, where he normally went to think or be alone.

After a bit, Barrel joined him up there, going and sitting next to her, Barrel knew Lock was scared that Shock or him would leave.

So he spoke, "It was a nice offer, but I'm not joining her ghoul pack" Barrel said, his voice calm, he was looking at Lock.

"Well maybe you should! Maybe you're meant to! There's nothing tying you here. So if you want to be with them just go!!" Lock snapped, looking away from Barrel, turning his head away even.

There was silence for a minute as Barrel looked at Lock, before grabbing one of his hands, and speaking softly, "I want to be where you are..you know that right?" Barrel said quietly, as Lock let out a sniffle.