[There's a low, sympathetic-sounding hum at that, and Kaoru's gaze shifts to the left and then toward the ground.]

I'm sorry that you've had to experience this, as well.

[Whoever Leo is - friend or family - is surely important for Elliot to specifically bring them up. Not that Kaoru actually cares much for shared experiences of any nature, good or bad; there's not much solace to be taken in not suffering alone in this case, even though it does bring some satisfaction.

Content to remain silent for the duration of their walk, nothing more is said until Elliot is the one to break that quiet air. Kaoru glances over, but only for a second or two.]

It's something that I intend to do as soon as I have a decent plan. It would be reckless to approach without an idea of what to say or what to expect.

[Which is actually putting it very mildly. Kaoru's paranoia and preparations always extend much, much deeper than they appear on the surface...

But they're at the cafe soon enough, and Kaoru steps through the propped-open front door without hesitation.]