[ It looks like he's ready to let the topic lie … Aoko gets it, really. She's sick and tired of games that promote nothing more than the invasion of people's privacy to earn points. ]
[ Except then he starts talking. Despite her surprise, she listens quietly, attentively. ]
It's not your fault, Tama-san. [ She reaches out, hesitantly, to touch the back of his hand. It's gentle; just a light brush of her fingertips. ] I wasn't here when it all happened, either.
You're here now, right? I know that doesn't change your feelings, but it's not too late for you to help.
I know. I know. [His hand twitches slightly at the gesture. He doesn't make it obvious, but he appreciates it.] It's just...I still don't remember anything. About who I really am. This team...and Queen Estelle, and the duty she gave me. It's all I've got. [His eyes narrow and he clenches his fist, making it clear how frustrated he is.]
[ He twitches, but he doesn't pull back … and so Aoko lingers, keeping the contact butterfly-light. She doesn't want to be too forward; doesn't want to make him any more uncomfortable than he already must be. ]
Mmn … [ Her smile saddens. ] I think I can understand your feelings.
[He takes in and lets out a few frustrated breaths. Luckily, it's not too hard to stop himself from getting any more emotional. After a few seconds, he looks back up at Aoko.]
Like I said, I know that it won't change your feelings … but I do want you to know that you haven't let me down. [ Glances at him again, earnest and warm. ] Not one bit. I'm just—selfishly glad that you're here with us now, despite the danger.
[For a second, he might think she's just trying to comfort him. But something about the way she looks at him and the sentiment behind it gets through to him. It makes him feel...a little better.
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[ Except then he starts talking. Despite her surprise, she listens quietly, attentively. ]
"It" ... do you mean Nyssa's takeover?
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You're here now, right? I know that doesn't change your feelings, but it's not too late for you to help.
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...I feel like I let all of you down.
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Mmn … [ Her smile saddens. ] I think I can understand your feelings.
Can I tell you something?
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...sure.
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We're in this together, on equal footing.
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After a couple seconds, his fist unclenches.]
...y-yeah.
I know we are. [He nods.] Of course we are.
...thanks Aoko.
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[He glances down at her hand on his. He pauses for a second, then his his closes around hers as well.
He manages a small smile for a second, until they decide to release each other's grip.]