[Akira stands up. He moves over to Red's bedside, waits a second -- like he's interacting with a cat, to let Red know what his intentions are -- and then gently reaches a hand onto Red's head. Somewhere without bandages. He would do the shoulder or the arm, but he can't, for obvious reasons. If Red flinches or shows any sign of pain, he'll take it off immediately.]
You don't have to do this alone.
Just tell me you understand that.
[There are fractures in his voice. He's trying really hard to sound firm and strong.]
I know it might seem like doing this by yourself is the only option. Easier to cut out the middleman, easier to hide everything from everyone, easier to look strong so that no one will doubt you or worry about you.
no subject
You don't have to do this alone.
Just tell me you understand that.
[There are fractures in his voice. He's trying really hard to sound firm and strong.]
I know it might seem like doing this by yourself is the only option. Easier to cut out the middleman, easier to hide everything from everyone, easier to look strong so that no one will doubt you or worry about you.
But you don't have to do it alone.