Tony, of course, recognized an avoidance tactic when he saw one. The catch was what to do about it. He could let the conversation continue like it was before he saw those easily enough, which was clearly what Shinji wanted, but it was also possible the boy hadn't figured out the pattern. There really wasn't a choice here to someone who had such a strong rescuer mentality.

He nodded as he listened about Kaito with a warm smile. "He's lucky to have such a supportive friend."

Clearing his throat and shifting on the balls of his feet, Tony pulled the conversation back to where he knew Shinji didn't want it. Sorry, pal. "You may have already figured this out, but I'd be remiss if I didn't share this in case you didn't. I've learned the petals are using flower symbolism. It's a code of some kind regarding something we're avoiding dealing with."

He held up a hand quickly. "Now, don't stress out, I'm not going to ask what yours is about unless you want me to. Kyoko is the one who explained to me that if you tell small truths here and there it can cause temporary relief. You might try it."