Tidus stays within that embrace quietly, the grab for supplies forgotten, the rush that had been in him, how little time an hour felt, ignored for this moment. To make it last, imprint it in his memory. That Taiki too won't forget.

But it doubts he will. Neither of them will - even if they can't be together, they'll have each other in their hearts, always.

When Tidus does eventually, finally pull back, he does with some colour at his eyes; a gloss to them, wet with moisture but no tears yet to fall. But he does sniff, tugging on a smile - sad, as it is thankful. Warm.

"I promise we'll come help Tai," he says again, quieter, but meant for no one else but Taiki.