[she watches him carefully, watches him strain to keep himself together, and perhaps try to let it all out at the same time. he can't do that. he can't keep it in and be free of those feelings simultaneously. she's seen people try. she's tried. she knows what happens.

she doesn't want him to shatter under the pressure of bottling everything up, and implode in trying to forget the feelings. it only hurts more.

when he looks at her, she smiles softly, and bites at her lip in thought before kneeling next to him, placing her hand on his knee for a moment.] Kazuya, it's not "putting up with you". I want to help. I like having you around. If having you here was a chore, I would let you know. [her smile is gentle and sweet, and she stays there with him for a few seconds before standing up and moving towards her cabinets.]

You know, there's a wine for every occasion. Moscato for a girl's night out, Merlot for an engagement announcement, Pinot Grigio for when you want to look classy at a teenager's house party... and Cabernet Sauvignon for a night like tonight. [she plucks the bottle from the wine rack and two glasses from the top shelf. uncorking the bottle with ease, she pours them both a glass, and brings both of them to the table. once she takes her seat, she locks eyes with him, and raises her glass slightly.]

You know, if you break eye contact during a toast, you'll have awful sex for seven years.