[It helps. It helps to know that Akira is always, always there for him when he stumbles, when he's overwhelmed - he just wants to be able to repay that someday, when Akira needs his support.

Because he knows that Akira can't keep it all bottled away for long. Experience alone has taught him that, especially when they have all of these stresses battering against them each and every day.]

I know.

[He takes in a breath - and from his position, Akira can probably hear the beating of Ichigo's heart, strong and steady, having calmed down considerably from just finally admitting his fears.

Deep in his heart, he wants Akira to promise that he won't die, but...he knows that's not one he can keep. It's not even one Ichigo can make, because he knows how weak he is when someone gains his trust and how easily he can be stabbed in the back.

So he just holds on, letting himself be soothed by the warmth contained as they hold each other.]

...That's why we're going to do our best to end this tonight, right?

[Determination leeches back into his voice, his grip becoming firmer - and over Akira's head, his eyes gain the same look in them as he would have facing down someone in battle.]

We're not going to let them have the chance do to this again.