Likewise, for Shinji, the idea of growing complacent with his stay in Havenwell felt like a cowardly thing to do, like it was just him running away from the mess he'd caused. Nobody asked to be here, sure, but if he had started to like it, then would that even matter?

He can only dig his heels in for so long, especially in the face of someone not just letting him know it was 'Okay' for him to be here, but 'Good', actually. Whether he likes it or not, he's here, now, still alive despite everything. It still doesn't feel fair for the rest of the people he's left behind, but maybe... just maybe, finding small joys and treasured moments wasn't somehow vile of him. Maybe he could start to take solace in the people who he's grown close with, that they were honestly glad for him to be here, even after he shines a light on his flaws for them like this.

He unclasps his hands, finally freeing an arm up to slip around Kai's back. He can't get himself to look him in the eyes just yet, but he wants to reciprocate some of that comfort, if he can.

"You, too," his voice is still wavering, though soft and sincere and steadier than it had been a moment ago. "Thank you, for always keeping me company."