You only need to change as much as you want to change. I want you to become...who you want to be. And who that is is up to you to decide.

[Ryou's pulled back, but Atem leans his head forward, and presses the side of his muzzle against Ryou's, snuffing just a little in his cheek fur. Ryou doesn't get to be distant, or short, or feel turbulent feelings without being reminded that he's not alone. The words come out a little close to Ryou's ear, then, as he goes on.]

I was scared for you, afterwards, when you were trying to draw attention away from me...

[He leans his face against Ryou's.]

...but I never would have stopped you.