[If Ichiru wants to put it that way. It's exactly like back then. Sharing a bed together because it was easier to fall asleep; when Ichiru came along to play even though he should have remained indoors.
Even when Ichiru had died. Even apart from having done as he had asked at the end they still within an embrace. Zero remembers too well the feel of his brother's body as it became cold.
Such thoughts are why he reaches for Ichiru's hand and gently tugs him in closer until he can fully envelope him into his arms. His forehead drops to his shoulder, voice quiet, maybe even a touch tentative upon speaking.]
. . .I've still changed since back then. I'll never be that kid again. You know that.
[His hold tightens a little and he falls even more silent with his words, practically buried in against his twin.]
I love you, though. I always have and will.
[It's a plain fact that goes unsaid, but he had to, anyway. He needed to.
Whether or not Ichiru returns the words (he won't be surprised if not) or even just the embrace almost doesn't matter. Zero already knows him throughout.]