I want to protect you. I want to protect the both of you.

He had to smile, even as he continued to fight against his own tears. They were so alike. Her mindset was one he could appreciate from experience, and somehow he wasn't surprised that they had both grown up in their respective worlds wanting to protect the other.

He glanced at Shinji, briefly, wiping at his eyes with his sleeve. It wasn't a very discreet attempt.

"Thank you," was all he said for the time being. He wasn't sure if it was appropriate or not -- of course Shinji would have called him to see Miki -- and yet it was the only thing that felt right.

He exhaled slowly as he turned back to his sister, his eyes now rimmed with red. Appearances be damned.

"We have a lot of catching up to do."