[If the best of people had trouble interpreting Zero's thoughts, Hajime was of no use at all, in no small part due to months of outright disregard. After what had happened on the ship, though, he could make his guesses as to what came next: irritation, impatience, disgust... pity, at absolute best.

The hand reached out to him, and he stared at it. Zero had so many reasons, practical and personal, not to bother himself with Hajime. There were so many better things to do.

Hajime took the hand, clumsily getting back to his feet. Still, he pulled back once standing, shrinking against the mops and rags. Though Zero was much shorter, Hajime felt so much smaller.

His vocal processor crackled when he spoke. "Thank you."