[He stops. Maybe he should have kept walking, in order to keep his legs working, or at least remember how to balance. But this feels important. This massive hesitation of hers. So Shiro stops walking.]
[The hand on her shoulder stays put.]
I'm not going anywhere.
[That feels important to state, too. Before he continues. His voice is as steady as usual, as even-toned as always. Waiting to keep speaking until she's really stopped. Interrupting someone when they have some kind of heavy news helps nothing.]
[A steadying exhale.]
If you're not sure now, think about it. I'll listen whenever you're ready.
It's the least I can do.
[For a friend. For someone who even now is doing their best to help.]
no subject
[The hand on her shoulder stays put.]
I'm not going anywhere.
[That feels important to state, too. Before he continues. His voice is as steady as usual, as even-toned as always. Waiting to keep speaking until she's really stopped. Interrupting someone when they have some kind of heavy news helps nothing.]
[A steadying exhale.]
If you're not sure now, think about it. I'll listen whenever you're ready.
It's the least I can do.
[For a friend. For someone who even now is doing their best to help.]