[ Remembrance of the strong admiration Ai feels all hits him at once, clouding his thoughts when he understands that yes, Rin is thanking him. Any composure he might have fooled himself to thinking he had is lost.

Until he brings it back together again. ]

U-Um, thank you!... too... [ is the best he can manage.

Ai knows that Rin has amazing things ahead of him, so he won't allow himself to be sad for too long. Because the same person that was able to point out those feelings to Rin was able to guide him as well. Because of Sousuke he knows that graduation is not the end. ]

I'll definitely work harder next year. And we'll still be able to swim again. [ Never really one to hold back his true feelings (whether in words or expression), even if he doesn't pour his heart out he could say that much. While it was admiration that caused him to look up to Rin, to be able to be so close by his side as his friend and junior, noticing the little things that others wouldn't would often make his day, or hell even his week. The journey may have been a little rough at some points, but he's never even thought of regretting a moment of it. Never will.

Especially since over time his feelings had easily turned into something more, with an admiration being one that proved to be full of merit and not disappointment. Whatever amazing thing Rin does in the future, Ai will always be happy for him. ] So what I'm saying is...

Please wait for me!