He leans into me, and I gaze at him for a moment, wondering, because there's a feeling inside me of-

He speaks, and I lose the thread. Doesn't matter, I'll get it back later. I nod encouragingly. "Yes, you'll heal. Everything will get better."

Except he didn't say that.

...oh. Oh. Oh, I see, now. Kengo-kun is feeling useless, and stupid, and as if nothing he does is any good and he just gets beaten up while Gen-chan does all the fighting.

"Kengo-kun," I scold, teasingly, affectionately. It's about five percent scolding to ninety-five percent affection and teasing. "We can't just sit here doing nothing. I have some readings I need your help with!"

It's quite true. I really do need his opinion on this. There's an increase in certain types of radiation, and my research is turning up no clues whatsoever as to why.

I spring to my feet, then give him a brief, gentle hug from behind, resting my cheek on top of his head.

I dart into the little alcove and get the tablet I need him to look at.