[ It's a nonsensical thought brought on by a mind still trying to settle itself. Maruki dismisses it as soon as it occurs to him. He doesn't want to think of his friend that way.

Besides– he remembers Odasaku telling him that he had to grow up fast. That really had been an understatement... ]

Don't worry. I won't tell anyone.

[ He hesitates for a long moment, then reaches out to clasp a hand that still trembles slightly over Odasaku's shoulder. ]

I don't see you any differently, knowing that. And... I'm grateful you were able to use those skills to help me. You could save a lot of people, I think.