[ Oh Natsuno knows, Riku. But it's hard to say something when you haven't actually accepted it yourself yet. Small steps, or something like that. And it's only because it's Riku that's he's gotten this much rather than an outright dismissal.
Inch by inch, he pushes forward. ]
I was holding myself back. But I realized that I didn't need to, if I wanted. I can be me.
[ Brushing past the follow-up to answer the original question is just his way of doing things, apparently. ]
[ Honestly, he has no idea how to respond to that at all. His expression shifts from flustered to sullen and back again, and in the end he just sighs hiding his face in ruffling his bangs. ]
Shut up...it's just-it doesn't matter. If we're going to face the witches eventually, I need to be full strength that's all.
[ Don't you dare imply anything even in the friendship category! ]
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Inch by inch, he pushes forward. ]
I was holding myself back. But I realized that I didn't need to, if I wanted. I can be me.
[ Brushing past the follow-up to answer the original question is just his way of doing things, apparently. ]
no subject
And that's enough to make him just smile, raising a hand to press against his own chest, before letting it fall right by his side. ]
I'd ask who would I have to thank for making you realize that, but I think not knowing would keep it a pleasant surprise.
no subject
Shut up...it's just-it doesn't matter. If we're going to face the witches eventually, I need to be full strength that's all.
[ Don't you dare imply anything even in the friendship category! ]