[ . . . . he did say that.

And he remembers context, sure, but he also remembers telling Chuuya -

.... well, relationships like that are supposed to be hard to break, right? Or something.

Funny - I don't think he even knew that I was thinking about you.

It's what gets Baren to pause. He claims a kiss to fill up some of the space before he speaks.]

... I still don't know if I believe in love.

[Even if you're getting me to consider it. Even though I don't think that sort of thing is meant for someone like me.

Because love is something that's not guaranteed, anymore. Nothing's guaranteed, as far as Baren's concerned. Not the love of your family, so why would it make any sense for someone not related to you by blood to love you? To love him, especially?

But he shakes his head because he doesn't want to dwell, but still wants to explain.]

... but I believe in time. And persistence. And - if things go right for once - that some people belong together.

[And can be happy together.

Is it okay if I want to belong with you, if you won't get tired of me?]