virtualparent your little dad will be alright before the day is over. They're happiness does improve a bit at a time as Lyssaria said. Try to praise him often and keep him fed. They usually don't live long after their mate dies, so I always take care of them until they do. I don't have the heart to boot them out, as you say, either. Good luck with your next generation. Oh, and don't feel like a fool for crying...I did that when my first one died also and even since when one dies that is a favorite.