(Akechi doesn't say he loves Ren back, but he doesn't need to. Ren knows he feels the same, from the quiet, soft kisses that sometimes Akechi allows to the way Akechi makes amends, tries to be better whenever he sees an opportunity to do so. Ren feels it.
The hug softens on Ren's end, but not because of the words and what they mean, but merely because Ren's hand finds its way to the other's hair in a caress, while the arm around the other maintains its hold, trying to keep Akechi safe against him.
Ren knows that too. It's the second time, after all, and it's not like Ren wouldn't do the same if the situation called for it.)
I'm aware. (There's a beat where Ren just breathes, his turn to hide against Akechi's neck, delivering his gentlest kiss onto the skin since Akechi's forehead was out of reach.) I don't want you to have to do that again.
(And that responsibility falls on Ren. Be more responsible, less reckless. Think with his head rather than his gut.)
I don't want to lose you. (Again... And again. And again, if they go home. Surely their deal still stands, he will face Maruki with all his might when the time comes, but fuck, he will loathe facing the consequences.)
p5royal spoilers
The hug softens on Ren's end, but not because of the words and what they mean, but merely because Ren's hand finds its way to the other's hair in a caress, while the arm around the other maintains its hold, trying to keep Akechi safe against him.
Ren knows that too. It's the second time, after all, and it's not like Ren wouldn't do the same if the situation called for it.)
I'm aware. (There's a beat where Ren just breathes, his turn to hide against Akechi's neck, delivering his gentlest kiss onto the skin since Akechi's forehead was out of reach.) I don't want you to have to do that again.
(And that responsibility falls on Ren. Be more responsible, less reckless. Think with his head rather than his gut.)
I don't want to lose you. (Again... And again. And again, if they go home. Surely their deal still stands, he will face Maruki with all his might when the time comes, but fuck, he will loathe facing the consequences.)