[He smiled when Noct leaned against him, he didn't move, didn't want to in case Noct realised what he was doing and pulled away. No. It was good like this. It felt... better, like this.

But he was quiet then, waiting for Noct to find his words, and then he listened once they were spoken. And because Gladio knew they deserved it, he was quiet a little longer to consider them.]

I'm... what I am, Noct. I get that. Born and raised to be your Shield. It didn't leave room for much else. But away from Eos... I've had to learn who I am when I'm not being that. It's tough, workin out who you are. And I still don't know.

What I do know, is I'll always be your Shield. Do I think you need one? No. You've been here how long without me, and you're still kicking. You're strong, Noct. A Shield you don't need. But I'm here anyway, if you ever feel like you do.

[He paused, gathered up some more of his thoughts, and then gave a low laugh.]

I was asking, yeah. I miss you, dumbass. Not havin you guys around is damn weird. And I hate it.