[For several solemn seconds, Kaworu is quiet, tracing along Shinji's face with fair fingers. He's working through the situation in his mind. Friendship is love, and to bury someone you love...

...To be with someone you love...]

You were there, [he murmurs, still outlining Shinji's features.] You were with her. Shinji-kun, the fact that you were with her means so much. Dying with a friend is more of a comfort than you know... [Here, he cups Shinji's face with both hands.] ...even if, for the friend, it's a devastating feeling. You did a wonderful thing for her. You're wonderful.