[ keigo hadn't considered how this might be affecting renji, listening to him go on and on about his fears and concerns, as irrational as they could be. he knew renji was essentially powerless to stop this sort of thing from happening, but he also couldn't blame him for that state of powerlessness, either. he hardly expected renji to have an answer or solution for him... though that did serve to make the situation feel all the more hopeless.

but somehow, renji knew how to turn things around for keigo's state of mind. while it was true he couldn't reverse whatever damage had been done, renji still had the ability to make keigo realize the strength he still held even in spite of all of this. it was obvious in his tone that he had a great deal of faith in him, which in and of itself was humbling. but what made it truly solidify in his mind was how renji was so willing to come down to his lowly level and pull him back up again. be it with words or with his affectionate touch, keigo could practically feel the care and concern emanating from renji.

so keigo's tears may have continued to roll down his cheeks, but the frantic sobbing and desperate grasping for clarity slowly ebbed away. his breathing regulated to shuddering huffs, the grip to his hands slacking just enough to signal a calm sinking into him.

there was silence for a moment as keigo just allowed himself to exist within renji's presence, protected by his embrace and concern for someone as undeserving as he was. ]

...you really have that much faith in me?