[He doesn't need to fool anyone, not that Sousuke couldn't see right through him, anyway. This is more for his own peace of mind, a gentle lie he tells himself to pretend he hasn't broken down, to rise again in genuine confidence and a stronger heart. A game of make-believe, until it's all made real.]

Sure, but I don't feel like watching a gratuitous strip show, okay? [Another rub of his arm, one last sniffle, and a hint of forced annoyance in his voice, only for the sake of their usual banter.] I'm telling you, once you get inside for the first time, you absolutely won't be able to get out unless you go for a dive, so you gotta let me go get you a swimsuit first!

[A pause, and the last of his tears evaporate, utterly defeated by a smile-- bright, warm, driven. A little more like himself.]

Unless you want to swim in your uniform, I mean. What, are you that eager to lose?

[A little more like them, too.]