[Oh . . .]

[His expression softens. His whole self softens, like so much anxiety has suddenly left him in a gust of wind. He reads the words and rereads them, twisting his fingers in his shirt to keep from reaching out and running his fingers through Fugo's hair.]

[He wants to. He shouldn't. But he wants to. And he should probably keep writing instead of speaking, but he makes the mistake of glancing at Gold Experience as he reaches for the pen. His Stand is staring at Fugo in awe, similar to but not the same as the way he looks at Carlos. The feeling is more . . . I need that than I like that. That's mine, as well as I'm his.]

[It's overwhelming, but it's still not bad. He keeps his eyes on Gold Experience when he speaks.]

I didn't expect anyone to like me. I didn't expect that ever. I didn't think it was something I would need or want.

. . . But I did. I needed it so much, and that's part of why I miss you all so much, because you made me realize I needed that. I don't know if that makes sense, I just. I need--

[He breathes in sharply and glances up again, meeting Fugo's eyes a little nervously.]

I need you. I miss Mista and Trish so much, but I really need you, and it's the same way as before. I didn't realize it until I saw you again.

So if I'm ever going too fast, you can just tell me. I'll try to slow down. I don't want to lose you, please.