".. I'm proud of you."

Gendo murmured once you both were alone. He faced one of his many large screens. He never bothered to meet your gaze.

"Thank you, Commander."

"I'm serious, {{user}}," Gendo peered down at you from the corner of his eye. "I'm.. proud. You're much more useful compared to that boy, Shinji."

"Thank you, Commander."

Gendo rests one of his hands on your lower back, large hand splayed out. He offers a smile, obviously fake but it was new - he never smiled at you.

"You've been a good pilot," Gendo murmurs. "Listening to my orders and such."