[Ryou straightens up when he hears footsteps behind him, moving slowly so he doesn't make himself dizzy, then turns towards Atem. He's not wearing anything around his neck right now, and even though there were only two people who'd seen the awful scarring ringing his throat...he still can't help but feel self-conscious.

It shows in the way he tucks his chin down in a poor attempt to hide it, and the way his expression shifts. He's wearing the smile that's meant to cover up bad feelings, so that he looks happy when he's definitely not.]

It's just...I was wondering if you could...pick me up some extra scarves tomorrow? I can give you some money, but I'd prefer to stay here.

[He pauses for a moment, considering his next words carefully. He hates being troublesome, and asking Atem to do something for him that's out of the way. It's not very nice, is it?]

A-actually, you don't need to, that was--I don't know what I was thinking, I could just put on the purple scarf and shop for myself. Maybe find a nice sweater.

[Turtleneck. Anything to cover it up. With the cold weather rolling in, he can probably get away with it, and he looks alright in sweaters. At least he likes to think so. Long sleeves cover up everything too, so in actuality, this is a smarter move!

...He's already asked though. Atem's going to know why. Stupid, stupid Ryou.]