[. . . somehow, that grip is anchoring. . . it keeps Akira grounded to reality, and helps him believe that what he said is true. it's fine. . . it's going to be fine. he has to trust the rest of Echidna, despite not even knowing who they are-- it's something his past self asked of him, right?]
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survivaltricks) wrote2021-09-17 11:25 pm
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[ ... ]
But you know... it doesn't have to be "fine".
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[he thinks. . . he's starting to understand that lingering feeling of sorry that he somehow can't shake]
No. Really. It's. . . fine.
[or as "fine" as something like this can be. as "fine" as it is when a wild card loses some of their precious confidants]
If I wrote myself a note, then the others must have, too. Right?
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[ ... mmmrrrr. ]
Still--still.
You don't have to be fine right now, Akira.
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[not. . . sharp, per se, but very firm. his hands curl into fists, knuckles white]
It has to be fine.
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And then dips his head. ]
... Okay. ... If you say so.
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. . . sorry. I didn't mean to sound harsh.
[very contrite!!]
And I'm not trying to be avoidant.
[even more quietly, emphasizing his words in hopes that Minato will understand without him being able to properly convey why]
But I have to believe it's fine.
[or else. . . how is he supposed to deal with this??]
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[ He still does not think it's fine, and he's not so sure about this coping mechanism, but--
What he can at least acknowledge is: ]
It will be. It will be fine--because it's you, and Echidna. and your bonds are undoubtedly so strong.
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[. . .]
[he holds a hand out to Minato]
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[. . .]
Thank you.
[quietly, but earnestly]
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... You don't have anything to thank me for. Being here with you in moments like this... I want this just as much as when things are going well.
[ that's what it means to be what they are to each other, right? ]
I'd never be anywhere but here.
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. . . can't believe I came here to make sure you were okay and wound up being comforted instead.
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Being around you like this has comforted me too, so... don't think any of this was just one way, okay?
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[no arguments from him on that one. he'll accept it for what it is]
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He just takes a deep breath, and then lets it out. It's going to be okay. Everything... will be okay.
And then he reaches out to cup Akira's cheek with his free hand and leans in for a quiet and gentle kiss. ]
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Are you going to be okay, staying at Echidna? You can stay over at Cerberus if you want.
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I'll be okay.
If there are going to be people there- [however weird that sounds!!] -- I should go see them.
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[ He squeezes Akira's hand gently. ]
If you need anything... you know where to find me. Don't hesitate, okay?
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I won't.
[and that's something Minato can count on, all things considered]