[It's a sympathetic gesture, and it is appreciated. Shouta's never been good at accepting those, and he's never been as openly affectionate as his friend, but Hizashi knows that by now. The fact that he doesn't tense up or brush that hand away is basically an acceptance all its own.]

You've always been the better optimist, Hizashi. But I hope you're right.

[This sigh at least sounds less heavy and more...well, sigh-y.]

So, grab All Might for a quick conference and plan of action, then try and reach out to the kids to let them know we're here, we're paying attention, and we're in this together?