[Natsume makes a startled sound, rising quickly and reaching out to catch Junpei's hands.] I am thinking about myself. You have no idea how much I'm thinking about myself.

[He stands, and he's -- it's only been a couple weeks, but he's taller, even if only by a few centimeters, shoulders a little broader, face a little sharper and more angular under the bruises. Alpha growth spurts are no joke.] It's -- I feel like I've been losing my mind, this whole time, trying to wait to see you. Trying to be smart about it, save money and plan and --

[A sharp, shaky exhale, and Natsume steps closer, hands coming up to cradle Junpei's face.] Don't ask me to leave. I can't say no to you, but I can't -- please don't ask me to leave you again.