[ He hates this too. All he wants is for Mio to live a happy, normal life. Of course her life was anything but normal since she's the Sonozaki heir, but things took a major turn for the worse after they had this god damn app installed.

This is just another reminder of how much he detests everything Retrospec stands for and how it's making the love of his life suffer like this.]

You're absolutely right, Mio. It's not your choice, so don't beat yourself up over it. [ His hand that was patting her head moves down to cup her cheek, stroking the tears away with his thumb.

Upon her question, he falls silent. ... Was she able to tell that something was bothering him? It wouldn't have surprised him. Not only is he easy to read, but Mio knew him best. ]

Yeah... I did. Don't worry about it, though. Just talk to me about what's on your mind.

[ Because he did not want to pile on her worries with his own. ]