["I'm willing to try."

As soon as those words ring in his ears, red eyes are brimming with a different spark, a wet sort of gleam that reflects nothing but relief. Despite all his history and personal frustrations, and the very fact this new situation is entirely foreign to the both of them, he's ignited that fire back in Sousuke's heart, that small hope to push him onward. A do-over, so he can keep chasing after his dreams.

Rin can't help but feel like he, too, has been given a second chance a second time. Before, he got to start over a friendship that Sousuke should never have doubted; now, he gets to mend what has been broken-- no, not so drastic; just cracked.]

It will work. [A firm nod, smile as wide as it is determined, overflowing with unbound hope. He doesn't have to hold back anymore.] I just know it will. Then you'll be back in the pool, and with a little extra practice, you'll catch up to everyone, and then?

[He catches himself again, laughs a little, not as embarrassed this time, and the smile is confident instead of sheepish, nearly cocky, really. Already so different from how he was a minute ago.]

With your real full potential out, we'll be unstoppable.