[ That seems like that. He's expecting the usual now: goodnights to be exchanged, and then he'll head off to the privacy of his bedroom, where he can contemplate the gravity of the decisions he's made today.

But just when he's about to get up from the couch, there are arms dragging him back. Ren freezes for a moment, surprised at first, only for it to melt away to comfort as an arm slips around Ryuji in return. Hugs between them are rare but not unheard of, reserved for the moments when one of them seems to really need the contact. Maybe his emotions were showing through more than he thought?

Leaving the date plans to Ryuji actually doesn't sound all that bad. He sounds kind of excited about it, even. He's ready to voice his approval when he feels Ryuji press into his hair, lips meeting the crown of his head. Is he… kissing Ren? His chest aches, both with the tenderness of the moment and with the knowledge that it's just Ryuji playing into the fake boyfriend role. Ren tries to distill the good parts and shove away the bad, taking comfort in the embrace as he nods. ] Yeah, I'd appreciate that.

[ Staying like this is dangerous, though. He could melt into Ryuji and remain this way all night if permitted to. So after a moment of basking, Ren extracts himself with a soft pat to his best friend's shoulder, drawing away from the hug. ]

'Night, Ryuji. [ There's a pause where he stands up, tugging at the hem of his shirt to straighten it. ] And thanks again. Don't stay up too late or I'll send Morgana out here to put you to bed.

[ One last smile accompanies the threat before he treats to his room. ]