Autor mimics her body language, and nods. "Rae has to assure me that I've learned how to be a friend on occasion, and believe me when I say I'm still learning, too," he says quietly. "As far as I understand it, being a friend is an odd mix of vulnerability and understanding boundaries. It's about trust, and extending the benefit of the doubt, which--correct me if I'm wrong--but I believe you've done that for me."

He glances up, shy. "I like having you as a friend, Miss Kuriyama."