[Khalid closes his eyes too, as she nuzzles against him, and he wonders if he melt like this every time she shows him these small, precious pieces of affection.]

I know. But it'll get easier, I promise.

[He once never would have dreamed of being this close with anyone, and yet here he is. A little at a time he's lowered his guard, bared his soul, until there's none of his secrets left between them. If he can do it, anyone can, even someone who has experienced as many of life's cruelties as Hayame has.]

I'll be with you every step of the way. And eventually... you'll be able to look at life in a whole new way, without fear or shame. --No, [he pauses to reconsider, pulling back just enough to see her face once more,] you're already starting on that journey.