Yes im thinking about Sonic being the source of most of Tails issues. Not on purpose but just because of who he inescapably is. Yes im thinking about Sonic being so dedicated to making sure Tails never has to worry over him or feel afraid that he won't bounce back being so focused on smiling through everything and anything that he becomes unreachable. Yes im thinking about Tails needing so desperately to be self sufficent because he knows Sonic wants to adventure to run headfirst into danger and Tails needs to be capable and smart so he can be there with him he needs to be brave and mature so Sonic doesn't have to worry about him and can focus on looking after himself and most importantly he needs to not be a burden because Sonic loves running more than anything he loves being free and Tails needs to make sure he never ever slows him down because what if he cant keep up and Sonic runs away and never comes back?

So Tails expresses concern for Sonic after a rough battle and Sonic brushes it off with a grin despite the pain in his side. Sonic reaches to pass Tails something he can't reach and Tails swats his hand aside saying he can get it himself even if it's something so small and simple to have let Sonic pass him the screwdriver. Even if admitting he'd gotten nicked by that last laser would have been easier than wrapping up his side in a cave where no one could see. They've gotta let each other know they're untouchable and they don't need each other. So they won't worry. So they'll know they're okay. So they'll be safe. So he'll stay.