He hesitates, a little reluctant to answer. He's already nervous--frightened, even--by this whole situation, and it shows in how his hands have gradually stopped stroking the white creature's fur to instead ball up into fists clinging to it. He knows his options--lying, saying nothing, or answering--but he also knows any of those could end poorly for him if it's not the right answer.

And sometimes, he knows, there isn't a right answer, just one that will get him hurt the least. Which means the safest bet is probably not to say anything, and hopefully get a better idea of what's best before the other boy decides he doesn't like his lack of response.