[ The mention of "curse" has him blinking, but he's assuming it's... not literal? ]

Heh... That's actually what reminds me so much of my best friend from back home. Ryuji's emotions almost always read loud and clear, even around strangers.

[ The mention of him being kind gets the hint of a blush; it's hardly noticeable. There's a small, slightly lopsided smile. ]

That's definitely mutual.