[The way Hunk explains things helps put it into better perspective for him. Essentially just... keep doing what he's been doing. Making friends, enjoying this second chance at life, experiencing new things, surrounding himself with his people. Marik thinks this all over for a minute or so, inner monologing with himself as he always does with complicated matters like this.

It isn't until the food is set in front of them that he snaps out of it.]

Hnn... Yes... You're right. I've met so many wonderful people here and everyone's helped me grow as a person...

[He finally smiles again, looking more at ease with things.]

You included, of course. And I'll keep trying to better myself.

[Chen quietly claps his hands together. His big brother is happy again...!]

Thank you, Hunk. I'm glad I came to you for this. I'm even more glad that we've finally gotten to meet though.

[He looks down at the cheesecake for a second and grabs a forkful.]

How long are you going to be in Goldenrod for?