[That was it, really. 'Just existing', though he found himself things to do more often that not. He was enjoying reading more than he'd ever have expected he might, especially now that it was starting to become a little easier. You read one word enough times and it gets really familiar.]

Egypt.

[He rolls the word around like it's barely familiar, though it sparks a.. something in his mind and he mutters 'Africa' in the moments that follow while she moves away to the bookcase.

When she comes back, he shifts over slightly and leans in to look at the photographs, curiosity written clearly over his face. Actual photographs... they aren't something he sees much of. He glances from the picture of her father, to her, then back, and smiles faintly.]

Y'know, we call it the Great War too, but not that one. [He huffs out a sigh.] Looks like a good guy, your father. Thinkin' you get your looks from your mom, though.

[Quickly, he flashes a grin at her.]

My pa's name was Jacob. Never got a photograph of him. Or my mom, either.