Shikamaru can tell when he's being dismissed, but it's his loyalty to Delsin that has him hanging on stubbornly. Even if now isn't the right time to persuade Delsin that there's something off about the situation, he wants to stay by Delsin's side.

"At least let me help you out in looking for him, then," he sighs, rubbing the back of his neck. "I still think you should sit down and regain your strength, too. Have you had lunch?"