[ there's a moment where akito almost turns away and runs when that hand leaves. he doesn't want to hear it, doesn't want to hear what words ikki might say that would distance them even further.

but there aren't any words like that; rather, they were nice to hear. not as nice as he really wants, no. but all the same, he smiles in response. more than that, there's tears forming in the corners of his eyes. happy tears. akito reaches forward, arms wrapping around ikki's middle to hold him close. ]

Mm', Right! We'll always be friends, no matter what! I'll protect you and take care of you as best as I can, too.

[ he nuzzles against ikki's chest for a moment, before his hands moved to the front of his shirt once more, and gave a soft tug. ]

Ikki. Can you lean down for a second? I need to tell you a secret.