Neither of them really know what they're doing for sure, but for Shinji, Kai feels like a safe enough person to explore all of these concepts with. At whatever pace they need to take it at.

Just taking this extra step forward is kind of a lot, if Shinji's being honest, but it feels like it's a necessary one. This is something that is welcome! Whenever they feel like pursuing it! That door is open, they can explore it at any point.

"Well, not... not anything that I can't take care of myself," he replies, mumbling sheepishly. "It's just... you know, something to keep in mind."