[ Meng Yao knew that positive reinforcement might help, even if deep down he was worried it'd not be enough. That he wouldn't be able to help one of the friends he had come to know since his arrival here.

But, those fears were unfounded. He believed that now.

So, he gave him a smile in return, confident they'll continue walking this difficult path, together. And maybe be able to be true to themselves no matter what pain came their way. ]

It's no issue at all.

I could have never left you to face this matter on your end. Besides, being there for each other is what friends do—and I consider each and every friend I make to be precious to me.

[ Because he will never take such things for granted, not when he had so little of them in the first place. ]