[ always the twins. wash himself was hardly an exception to that, after all. even after asking, and even given everything else they've already said, it's still a surprise to him to hear all of this come tumbling out -- stranger still to remember that he's asking because he wants to hear it, to help however he can, even if the only way is just to listen. they've made pretty good progress, apparently. carolina would be proud, if she was still around. maybe.

north was always -- caring. protective. that was the thing everyone knew about him, that was the reason why he was assigned his ai. he could see that, south enlisting to get away from him only for him to inevitably follow her even into the ODSTs.

he shifts slightly where he's sat next to her. ]

Fuck the project.

[ that sure is something they can all agree on no matter what. even saying it so casually, there's a certain level of vitriol and venom in his tone just under the surface that's unmistakable. and it ebbs from him just as quickly, nudging her lightly with his elbow. ]

Could never do what, though? [ he shifts again, scooting back a little bit so he can lean his back against the nearby concrete wall, tipping his head back against it. ] Could never make yourself leave, or -- could never find independence outside of him?

'Cause I'd say you're doing alright for yourself, in the latter.