[ He won't be. He'll be right back in the life that he knew would kill him young. But it's a choice he's making, and Kuro can't read his mind. It's probably ridiculous to even accept this so much.

Leaning out, he kisses the center of that little head. ]

It's harder on you because you get it, huh? It's not about being with the person who's strongest, it's about wanting to be with the person who makes you happiest. I've been trying to get Max to get that so let's keep this between us, huh? He'll call me a hypocrite. Nhn. No, he'll call me a liar.

[ A hypocrite would require he believe he's the one who makes Ash the happiest. ]

I think your brother ran off on me.

[ He reaches for the scoop. ]

I'll make sure you two stay together.