[ Makoto hums a soft noise, the intonation suggesting that he might have some unspoken thoughts about what he said. After looking away from the camera for a moment thoughtfully, he glances back, one blood red eye partially obscured by his long bangs. ]

I'd been hoping to go without, too. It didn't feel right to me. [ He's choosing his words carefully. He doesn't want to say too much about himself to someone who is basically still a stranger, nor does he want to cause that stranger any offense either. ]

..."Slim pickings," as you put it, that has nothing to do with why I'm asking you. You just seemed like someone who might be a good option. Someone who wouldn't take it too personally.