He cares about you. That much is obvious.

[The very first time he met Kanda, it was obvious that he wasn't just some casual acquaintance. It must be nice, having someone so close - even now, Steinbeck can't say he's exactly close with anyone, even Lavi. There are still parts of himself he keeps hidden from everyone around him.]

Me, lying? [He lets out a laugh.] About what, being like this? Trust me, nothing compares to being hung from the ceiling from hooks in your body.

[Because that's a thing he willingly does, from time to time.]

Seriously, everyone keeps worrying about me. They need to worry about themselves.

[Just a pointed glance here at Lavi.]