[ While the comment is a little meaner than Itsuki's usual fair, he's at least glad that it gets a laugh out of Suga. But he just can't understand how someone could be cruel to someone like Suga, who has been nothing but kind to him since they first met, who has a calming presence and a cheerful, encouraging smile. Even if it's a misunderstanding, or whatever could have brought on his captain's meanness. ]

Maybe. [ There's a me, too in the subtext of that one word, and understanding.

But he lets out an uncertain hum about Mei, already sleepy eyes drooping further as he looks off to the side. There's no denying that he really does spend a lot of time chasing after Mei, in every way that's possible for the two of them. In terms of skills, feelings, and reining him in. ] He did that, back home. He'd lock himself up in his dorm room. It took a while for him to come back out again.

[ This, though, was different from one of Mei's usual sulks. Itsuki caused it. It takes Suga speaking to him again to really get his attention, and he looks back at him. His expression becomes a little incredulous, but definitely embarrassed, when he says that he matters to Mei. ] ... thanks, Suga-san. I really do appreciate it. This place is still a little - [ he laughs ] It's still overwhelming, sometimes, so it's good to know that there are friends here.

[ Smile soft around the edges in return, he ducks down a little. ] And I can offer the same to you, too. If you ever need somewhere to go, for whatever reason.