It's fine if Kai doesn't want to let go entirely just yet, because, surprise, Shinji's not planning on doing as much either.

"It really shouldn't take long," he slips one of his hands into Kai's, giving it a tight and reassuring squeeze as a way to take place of that hug ending. Whether he can believe it or not, Shinji's priorities can always be easily arranged to put Kaito at the top, and the need to keep checking on the plants over and over again through the day is simple enough to shake off. They've gotten their water, their attention, and now somebody else needs him more.

"I really just wanted to make sure there haven't been any people or animals running through here," he gently tugs on Kai's hand, prompting the other to crouch down and inspect the area with him. "I don't know if some of these smaller ones would be able to handle getting nibbled on or knocked over."