"It's the monster's role. Did Kido expect something else from me?" His hand tightens, trying to hold on if she chooses to pull away. Idiot. Stop pushing. Stop pulling. "Sorry. That-- it wasn't very well-worded. I didn't mean to say that."

Tell the truth. His tongue aches. The pressure in his chest is almost unbearable. She can still smile despite everything, huh?

"I don't know what I'm supposed to say in return."