[ He's quiet for a moment, her gentle regret sinking in for him. It... is definitely a little painful to feel that from her, because he understands. He understands what it's like to want something so simple, so understated as a normal life, and to know that with what's in your future, you just can't have it.

... He squeezes her hand gently in his own, before he brings their joined hands to rest over his chest, where his heart is. He knows she can feel his mingled fondness and sadness for her... but he can't help but demonstrate it in that way too. ]

... I know you will. That's... what makes you so precious to so many people. Because no matter what... you're always very, very Ritsuka.