And that sent him over the edge and it was Eikichi's turn to feel his shoulders move up and down and he tried to stop his own crying.

Tatsuya...is that how you...

"N-nah. I ain't telling anyone. 'Sides, i-if they wanted to do anything to you...they'd have to go through me first. I'll protect you."

After all, Birds of a feather flock together...

The school was completely empty by now, but they could hear the sirens coming closer.