"I know..." And he did, he really did. But he also knew what her heart wanted. He knew she wanted to be strong and protect the people she loved. No matter whether he voiced his opinions or spoke his truths, he wouldn't be able to change her heart. And Maru didn't want to. Being the kind person she was is what attracted him to her in the first place.

"... She's my friend. My partner." That was the word Mahiru had used so much. Partners. Madoka had started using it too. They were so similar but so different... Maybe he had a type when it came to Eves? Could he make that assumption when he'd only had two?