[And like that there goes the wind out of his sails. He's always had brief suspicions that something's been up about Dave and his Bro (though never actually how fucked up things were), but just his own thoughts and speculations he hasn't really voiced out loud. It's strange to hear Dave say something like that, but maybe it makes sense? Kids are told what to do by their guardians without really getting to ask questions. It's weird, but he's aware this isn't conventional either. There's an inhale and he holds his breath for a moment, staring at Dave for a minute and studying him closely.

...it's strange, because from his stance he sort of looks like a little kid on the defense. But that's silly. So instead there a heavy, overdramatic sigh as he tilts his head back to stare at the ceiling. Okay. They can resume being light and casual now. It's still something sitting at the base of his skull, but he can roll with it.]

Is this the part where I say that you're attractive and I'm attracted to you again and it's no wonder that everyone trips over their feet for a chance to be noticed by the cool kid? [There's a hint of a grin anyway. Even if that part is a complete joke, he seems to actually be taking this seriously.] Your art skills are actually getting better, dude. I really hope we get to go to a world with better technology because then maybe I can find a keyboard and you can find turntables and we can show the rest of the coven your sick beats. And I think I was promised a better movie education? I'll even take notes this time.

[A pause.] It's probably stupid, but I've spent pretty much every day for the last six years really, really excited for the first day I would get to meet you guys and hang out in person. It's probably stupider that I'm not sure when that excitement will wear off. I guess that's just because you are definitely so cool. [It's a joking note at the end, too, but still weirdly sincere.]