"From my understanding of Valentine's Day, this means exactly what I am intending it to mean," he says, correcting him. Although Kaworu has a sense of what Shinji is trying to say, it's simply one of those artificial limitations that the Lilim made up for themselves, which he has little interest in.

Kaworu's slender fingers press and brush down Shinji's as he pulls his hands away, leaving the envelope in his palm. There's that warmth in his face again. It all feels strange. Yes, yes, he wants Shinji to take it. He can recognize that desire inside himself. But...

"If you don't want to open it, that's fine. You've adapted in a certain way in order to live in this world. I admire you for it, and so, you don't have to accept my love."

After a moment, he breathes out a dreamy sigh.

"If you're happy alone, that's fine. But it should be by your own choice. Not because there is no one to give you whatever love you might desire. I'm happy to give that choice to you."