[ There's a flinch at the brush against his elbow, almost imperceptible if Yu's fingers hadn't stayed, and regret floods Ryoji immediately for that reflexive response to somebody touching him when he's still so shaken, scared that whatever darkness is inside him, it would lash out at every tender touch or gestures. He wants to reach over and grab that hand and keep it there, in apology, hungry for the contact, hoping Yu didn't notice— but the moment passes, and Yu starts to speak.

Yu talks of friendship, of how he still cares about him— all of him. No matter what. Him of the past, who he feels had forced his way into Yu's life, as he tended to do, curious about the boy who is like the moon to his brother's sun. Him of the present, an absolute mess of tears who had almost nearly killed Yu— him of the future, who might follow through with it, he'd seen more of what he's to become and he's-

overwhelmed with gratitude, affection, Yu still promising to stay by his side. ]

"Let"?

[ The word might as well be a breath of air for how hushed it is, as if he's never heard of the term. But then Ryoji continues to speak, each word more adamant than the next until he's breathless with it, tripping over his words and rushing from one thought to the next so he's not interrupted, because he needs Yu to know. ]

There's no "let," no need to ask for permission. I want you to stay with me— you who would use your wishes for others- who invited me into your home- you indulge me when I'm being silly- explain to me what I do not know, with endless patience— you say you don't like being the center of attention, but I can't help but see you, look to you— if you stayed by my side... [ he hushes ] ...I would be so happy.

[ so relieved. ]