[ The situation was exacerbated by the fact Shinjiro wasn't the best at expressing himself. He spoke with his actions. They made the best sense to him and spoke a lot louder than empty words ever could. He took care of her, he provided food, watched her back, protected her.  He'd abandoned her, and Akihiko, back home, but he wasn't about to do that here. Didn't that explain where he stood well enough without him having to spell it out?

He guessed not. It wasn't exactly logical and Mitsuru thrived on logic.

He swallowed before placing a plate before each seat at her bar. ]

You matter to me...so I like to take care of you.

[ Better, but still not that great. ]