I know. [ The boy turned around after her, his voice a mixture of remorse and acknowledgment. Though he hadn't expected her to lash out in anger, in a way, her composure felt like punishment in its own right. ]

And I wouldn't want to have this any other way, either.

[ On one hand, there was his wish to give her some more space for her thoughts, and on the other, the inability to draw his gaze away, as he noted the subtle changes in her expression. ]

The past makes us who we are, but no amount of scientific data could possibly be capable of expressing that as our own words can. [ A pause. ] Besides, these are all strings of information placed in order, nothing more. There is no reason for you to feel the need to explain yourself, if I learn most simply from the moments we get to spend together.

[ He was unsure where his words might lead, but it somehow made sense that he let them be known.

A corner of his mouth twitches lightly, and interrupting the solemnity of his expression is the tiniest of smiles. ]

And you won't get rid of me that easily, but just to make things clear....

[ Just as quickly as it came to be, the amusement fades. ]

... I promise. It makes me glad to be able to say that openly.