It was painful to see Takashi like this. As if it wasn't enough the issue about the youkai pestering him, watching Natsume trying to hide his problems to not worry anyone was too much for Tanuma, who uncounsciously clenched his fists while talking to him. It didn't go unnoticed by Natsume, who stopped talking immediately.
"Is there something wrong, Tanuma?"
"I, uh…" The black-haired boy averted his gaze, choosing the correct words. He decided to be honest about his feelings. "It's kinda frustrating seeing you like this and not being able to help."
"You already help me enough, really. Just promise me one thing."
"And what it would be?"
"Promise me to not be reckless. You're my best friend, and I don't want to see you hurt because of me." His voice was low, but Tanuma could hear it perfectly. He knew the blonde wouldn't feel at ease until he made the promise, a soft chuckle escaping through his lips with the thought of how adorable the shorter looked even with that worried expression.
"I cross my heart and hope to die that I won't be reckless." He made the crossed gesture above his chest, smiling to reassure his friend.