He followed Shadow back to the corner they came from, stopping only when he turned to give him a Smash Ball. Sonic's eyes observed it like a weapon before he took it, then he gazed some more, eyes running along the curve of the sphere over, over, and over again, as if he'd find a corner on it soon enough.

He could only hope it wasn't a misinterpretation on his part, but Shadow agreeing to help him and offering this device was, to Sonic, a quiet sign that he was beginning to accept him. It may only be one step to the long journey ahead of them, but it went so far, and it held much meaning.