Albedo appeared solidified--calmer, at least--and it was enough to draw Nigredo's hand away. The open affection from him was strange, yes. Out of character, especially in the presence of a third party. As previously considered, the gesture was likely invasive in the context of that day, and in truth, the child was nervous. The hand returned to his lap, and he once again looked up to Ritsuka.

Here, he noted a strange contrast. The other boy resembled one disconnected, and although the chances of misreading a person were great, Nigredo knew the countenance well enough to understand. Had existed as such long enough to perhaps comment on with little reservation. Before he could ask if anything was wrong, however, his brother had reached out a hand to Ritsuka, making for a very strange picture in the variant's perspective. This was honestly the first he had seen Albedo show affection for someone not family; a part of him wondered if such a thing was possible. Yet, here it was.

Ritsuka, however, was not Nigredo's friend. Since Albedo had called to what seemed hidden, the younger took up what was polite. "How have you been doing, Ritsuka?" he asked, almost lamely.