"I think I like who I am learning to be," A said hoarsely. "I like being sensei's deshi and Kurama's student, Schrodinger and Einstein's caretaker, so, so many people's friend, and most of all River's boyfriend. Grower of gardens and maker of food. I didn't know it would hurt to let go all the way of being L's successor, even if I never really was."

He curled up against her, still shivering, drawing comfort from her nearness.