(it's not entirely evident, but to ryuji, who painstakingly watches ren, always trying to notice if something is wrong under that calm demeanor, it is clear that ren is tired. maybe ryuji focused a little too much on the minor details of it all, or questioned the whole idea a few too many times, or maybe ren's parents are just getting to him more than ryuji knows.

one thing is for sure, though, that when ren says he's tired, he is tired. ryuji's smile fades as he takes a moment to consider the pressure ren must be under, to have his parents respect his own wishes, but also have to go out of his way to deceive them like this. it can't be easy, and ryuji is sitting here just happy he can kiss him and say 'i love you' without any fallout.

without any warning, ryuji pulls ren into a hug, arms wrapping around his shoulders to hold him close. give him that extra bit of support he no doubt needs.) Hey, dude, I know you're probably gonna deal with a lot more from now on. How about I take care of the date?

(he shouldn't do this, he absolutely shouldn't do this, it's selfish and wrong and crossing a line. but that tiny voice in the back of his head screaming "what if ren needs this" takes over. it's nothing dramatic, all ryuji does it press his lips to the top of ren's head, burying in there and planting a small kiss.

something that can't be taken back, even if he wanted to. but he doesn't.) You can at least trust me with that much, right?