preowned | shinobu

I would want that for you, too.

[ that's something she doesn't have to take a second to think about, but it's hard for her to say what that path is. ]

What does that path look like for you?

[ ... okay, he laughs. ]

It's whatever is easiest for you.

I would take whatever is given to me, but I want to make sure the people I care about are able to keep going.

[ she frowns and looks down at his foot like she's five seconds away from stomping on it.

As if her tiny foot and tiny strength could do anything. ]

Stop it.

Sorry, sorry.

[ there's another laugh, softer. ]

I would like to live, but in a place like this... our lives are all in the hands of others. From who gets chosen as a victim, to who we vote for... it really is a game of chance. So, I shall trust this hand with my life.

[ there's a light squeeze of her hand. ]

As I hope those I care about will trust me to take care of them.

Thank you.

[ there's a warmth to the feeling his words make her feel, but it's tinged with a bittersweetness. she can't deny those words, that so much is at the hands of others.

but if he really would trust her... she gives his hand a gentle squeeze back. ]

I do trust you. I have trusted you. I will take your hand, as many times as you want, as many times as you need.