[ His shoulders can't help but sag a little at hearing that. It's not something he can't understand - he's been on that end of the deal a lot of times, actually - but that's exactly what makes it so sad.. He could deal with something like that, but a sweet innocent girl like Mary shouldn't have to endure it.

The guy kneels down to be on a more even level with her, looking at her. ]

.. I'm sorry.

[ A little more genuinely this time - or more like he's taking his time to say it a little more.. He really does feel shitty about it now, even though he couldn't help it. ]

I wish I could just promise at least I won't leave you anymore, but.. well, we've seen it ain't really up to me, huh. [ Unfortunately. Shinpachi would fight whatever decided to throw people out and in of this place if he could - he'd prefer it. ] And I don't wanna promise something I can't live up to for sure.

[ He puts a hand on her shoulder. ]

But as long as I'm here, I'll do my best-- that much I promise.