[takes her by surprise, it does. and she embraces him tightly, molding into his shape and mustering whatever ounce of courage is in her so that whenever she does pull away there will be a smile on her face. for now, remains in the embrace and consequently hiding her expression from him. how is she meant to reassure him, when the boy but condemn himself.]
I did say not to look back, Sou-chan. Nothing about you won't make me proud of having you as my little brother. All right? Don't look so sad, or I will be--too.