[he curls his fingers around hers, a crooked smile back when she smiles to him. a touch relieved, because these sentimental matters never feel natural to him, insofar that he always half expects to make some grave error or cross some line.

it is rewarding though, when he is met halfway like this. good to say something that seems to have an impact despite his uncertainty it could.

admittedly her words in turn are a lot to take in, the kind of thing he'd usually try to avoid or dismiss but- well, difficult, when here they are on something like common ground. he can't help ducking his head, a quiet chuckle despite the fact his chest aches in a pleasant way.

hm. he squeezes her hands as way of an answer at first, just a touch overwhelmed before glancing up again.]

I... I truly appreciate that, Chizuru. In truth I've always found it difficult with people, there are so many angles to consider. You have always been so sincere, it is- I admire that, a great deal. It makes it very rewarding to be your friend.

Perhaps we can agree all of those children did not know what they missed, eh? Or at least... I am glad we did not miss each other here.