Tyler shrugs, but his expression is distant.

I didn't think I deserved to either. I just... had to. If I didn't then, I never would. And I almost didn't anyway, but...

His hands tremble, lift like he wants to make a sign, but he hesitates and bites his lip. Reaches for a different sign instead.

...my boyfriend stepped in and defended me from our Keeper. If he hadn't taken the Director's attention, Mai and I wouldn't have escaped. I... can't imagine what that must have cost him. He was nearly fully gone, I had to drag him with us. If I hadn't... I didn't...

He stops, and lifts an arm so he can draw his hand down his face, looking more tired and old than he ever has. A true piece of the cynical Wizened edge shining through.

(He didn't even get to say goodbye.)

Eventually, he sighs through his nose and keeps talking. ...I feel the same, honestly. If I hadn't been thrown into Team Rocket I would have been a lot less grounded. I don't feel like most of the others like or even know me that well, but it's still something knowing I don't have to force it with them.