[Moms always know, this is true. Even when his shitty dad was around and it was up to Ryuji to protect her from him, she somehow always knew when he got in trouble. And now that it was just the two of them, she always knew even BEFORE he got in trouble sometimes. He tried to lessen her burden, but, well, sometimes people just made him so damn mad.

Ryuji sighs and shrugs.]

You're probably right. She'd give me an earful if she heard me sayin' it right in front of her.

[Which is why he only ever did it to the side or behind or away.]

And yeah, she'll wake up. You did - even after you up and disappeared.


...Kinda like I did. [Riiiight. Oops. He shoots Ann an apologetic smile.] Didya miss me?