[If Hijikata could sense even that nuance, then it'll make perfect sense to him. The way people are torn apart in these worlds, then maybe reunited with one of them missing memories... it takes its toll. But the alternative - never opening up to others, never getting that close to anyone - wouldn't be worth it, not in Hijikata's opinion.
When Gokudera breaks contact it signals the end of the meditation. Hijikata felt the boy's emotions get less and less intense, like a storm gradually calming down, and he takes that as a good sign, but he still easily accepts the unspoken offer to walk with him in the gardens. He now knows that Gokudera has his own fire magic, but he offers his little flame regardless. He'll let him speak first, wanting to give him a chance to order his thought a little beforehand if he needs to.]
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When Gokudera breaks contact it signals the end of the meditation. Hijikata felt the boy's emotions get less and less intense, like a storm gradually calming down, and he takes that as a good sign, but he still easily accepts the unspoken offer to walk with him in the gardens. He now knows that Gokudera has his own fire magic, but he offers his little flame regardless. He'll let him speak first, wanting to give him a chance to order his thought a little beforehand if he needs to.]