[It’s habit, and Mayoi takes another deep breath before he nods gently.]

I-I know… it is a hard habit to break. [They have had this conversation before. Possibly every time.] Having you here makes me feel both very grateful and irredeemably selfish.

[Gently, Mayoi’s hands stroke through Tatsumi’s hair, to his ears. His nerves settle just a little at the motion.]

…Mm. I-I think so.