[ The answer used to be to his grave. A part of him wants to withdraw into himself, very much like the dream he had of a cursed March. It only evoked the wrath and worry of his friends—he doesn’t want that yet he doesn’t respond to Yusuke’s frustrated and prying questions. They all hurt in different ways, instilling regret further into him. It reminds him of the lost chances he had with Ann, Haru, Ryuji, Makoto, and even Futaba who is still around, far too vivid despite not remembering most of their time in Recolle if not by dream.

Instead of taking a step back, he takes one forward and closes the distance in short strides. When he’s in front of Yusuke, a hand lifts, but hovers awkwardly, fingers flexing in anxiety and doubt. He bites his bottom lip, throws all caution out, and slowly slides his hands around his friend to give him the much needed hug he deserves. They’re just kids, burdened with darker memories than they should. ]

We went through a lot—there and here. Thank you for staying by my side through all of it, Yusuke.

[ He doesn’t know why he does when he keeps making the same mistakes, but voicing that will only earn him a scolding. Not that he would mind... Yusuke’s presence is the only grounding thing in this dream. Abruptly, he squeezes his friend a bit in the embrace. ]

I can tell you how much I’m working on myself, but you already know that... So how can I earn your forgiveness?