[ A very real relief washed over him, though he couldn't quite bring himself to smile. Not because of the sentiment or the words but just remnants of the last conversation. ]

I had a fairly good idea already that you were. From what 622 had told me about you.

[ There was a slight pause before a decision was made. Perhaps less made than it was triggered - something important that now couldn't go unsaid. Still holding Akobi's gaze with a determined earnestness, he added: ]

I care about him. A lot.

More than - more than friends.