Right. [All Might pats him gently on the back, even as Izuku's tears start to spill over. He can't begin to explain how he feels responsible for his absence. Even if Izuku's been fine without him, even if there was no way he could have come before now... as his teacher, he promised to guide him, hadn't he? His place is here, by his student's side.

But there's no use in dwelling on the past, when what Izuku needs is reassurance. He pulls back, then, just enough to offer a bright grin.]

Though even before I was here, I was still with you. Why? [He pokes him in the chest, tone more lighthearted now.] Because you have One for All! No obstacle can break a bond like that.