Declan’s indecision gave Aoba something else to focus on, at least: something outside himself and his own confusions. He blinked, lifting his head, and finally offered a smile he hoped was reassuring.

“Declan, you’ve already been a better host than I could have even hoped for. I don’t think anyone I know back home would have gone so far for a total stranger, especially one making such weird claims as I have…and that includes me, too.” There might be a lesson in generosity to learn in here, somewhere.

Aoba reached up and patted Declan’s shoulder. It was like patting a warm mountain, but it was a deliberate gesture of camaraderie. “Get some sleep, you deserve it. I have your numbers now, so I promise, Ren or I will call you if we run into anything we really need help about.”