Madoka let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. He smiled with a bit more courage, nodding.
"No one else was there," he assured. "I-it'll just be the...five of us. We can head up together whenever you're ready, I guess?"
At least he wouldn't have to go up alone. Clair would be happy with him.
But isn't she always? Aren't I just overthinking things? Clair is my best friend, right?
But am I hers?
All of these conflicting thoughts were beginning to make Madoka dizzy. He turned to face the fountain, pausing.
"U-um...well, if you need help carrying anything...maybe we can bring ankle weights or something? For...exercise reasons?"
I hope I don't sound like too much of a loser.