[As long as Vash thinks of it that way, of their near embrace being nothing more than a way to satisfy Pure Vanilla's need for contact, he doesn't have to feel guilty. His mind could be such a treacherous thing, after all. A simple, quiet moment shared between a friend could be seen as a dangerous act. Both here and at home, it had been proven that Vash's very presence was dangerous.

But he cuts off those thoughts before they can continue. The scent of Vanilla keeps his muscles relaxed, and the casual conversation gives him something to focus on beyond his swirling, spiraling doubts.]

Mm. The last thing I want is for you to get hurt. [He puffs out a laugh.] Imagine trying to explain it to anyone. Breaking something while trying to each a friend to skate? I don't think we'd live it down.

[Vash tilts his head back, though not so far as to leave Pure Vanilla's space entirely. He just needs to stare at the ceiling and think a little.]

You might be onto something, you know? I grew really fast and - [He cuts off, then starts laughing outright.] And I never explained any of that to you, huh?

[He shakes his head, leaving it at that for now.]

I haven't. Not formally, at least!