childeishly | ☢️ mwm inbox.

It is not residual. [ he's not going into anymore detail, because then they're just going to have another argument. ] And I'm trying too, which is why I mentioned it in the first place.

You said it's because you're connected to him. That makes it residual. [ This is already turning into an argument... but he relents and shakes his head. ] If you want to fuss over me, I'd rather it be only... because of me. Otherwise, don't bother.

[ he takes several steps back and sits on his bed. ] A feeling I have and the reason I'm doing something are two completely different things. Yes, my connection to Yuuri is part of what's pushing me closer to you, but I wouldn't be helping you if me, myself, and I didn't want to. -I- want to fuss, because, maybe against my better judgement, I like you. It's not hard to tell that you're tough, and I do enjoy going head to head with you.

[ He stays where he is, leaning back against the door. ] I don't dislike you... you're entertaining to fight with.

But I told you already, didn't I? I'm used to relying only on myself. You can't get huffy when I don't show you gratitude in the way you're used to.

Fine. I'll dial it back as best as I can.

You don't have to- I mean...

You only have to dial back getting annoyed if I tell you to back off.

[ he takes his head in hand and sighs. it feels like they're talking in circles. ] And by then we're both annoyed.

[ They aren't on the same page at all. ] Ugh. Maybe we aren't meant to get along.

...maybe not. [ he can't hide his disappointment, because his fox ears fall down, but it is what it is. ] I don't know what to tell you. I can only... try. [ and he's not sure trying is worth it if all he's going to end up doing is pissing wanderer off. ]

[ He doesn't like that look on him at all. He lets out a frustrated sigh and shoves away from the wall to approach Childe, staring down. ] Why don't you tell me what it is that you actually want out of me? I still don't even know what you're expecting.

…somebody I can rely on and somebody that can rely on me. And not just in a fight, since that’s basically a given. [ he wants something a little deeper. ]

That makes it... a little more clear. [ He's still not sure how much he can lower his walls. ] I can try, but you can't expect me to be perfect at it right away.