[He hadn't realized just how nervous he was until he felt her kiss on his cheeks. It's amazing how grounding these seemingly simple gestures can be. Atsushi turns his head to kiss her cheek back, wishing that he can be as comforting to her.

Then he sighs. Becoming more aware of how much tension he had been hiding as he chuckles lightly.]


I'm sorry if it seems pushy... I bought the stuff, just in case. [But he doesn't want the ingredients on the table to pressure her either. Makoto had expressed that she was fine with the pact, but Atsushi realizes that his confession might change that.]

I've been difficult about it, huh..? But... If it's okay, I'd like to, uh. Try being more honest... about why I'm hesitating..?

[Continuously framing this as a question, because he isn't sure if his thoughts are allowed.]