*Shouichi listened quietly, not saying a word. Not really knowing what to say as the other spoke, though his heart was beating a bit faster.

Byakuran didn't say he was giving up his dream or anything. His plans or mission. But... For a moment, Shouichi felt that if he tried to appeal to him, to change his mind about those things that maybe... Maybe he'd hear him.

But it was too dangerous to risk and that brief moment of hope only left him feeling a little lost in despair, logic shattering the moment. He couldn't risk everyone's lives like that. Not when this had been all his fault to start with.

He swallowed hard and stared at the hand sitting on his, mind racing*

I am glad that you're here with me. I didn't know what to do when I found myself suddenly in this place and then... there you were. *He kept his eyes downcast, feeling his ears tinge pink* I've really missed those days too.

More than I can say. This has been... *He shook his head, finding the words hard to say correctly* I don't know, almost... perfect.