[that gets a hum of agreement from him, though he hasn't taken a sip of his yet. he simply holds the cup between his hands, letting the heat warm them through.]

It's been a while since I've been able to share tea with anyone, so I'm grateful for the opportunity.

[and for the company in general, because Kaoru does get lonely somewhat easily, even if he can push through it if the situation calls for it. he craves being around others, so the isolation that comes with watching the clinic all by himself can get under his skin sometimes.

finally, he brings the cup to his mouth and blows the steam away, taking a sip.]

—Thank you for brewing this, by the way.