It was a lie. A good lie but a lie nonetheless. It was almost comical just how naive he seemed to think she was. She studied his face closely, seemingly searching it for something. Then her eyes seemed change focus; as if she was looking through him at something standing behind him. Whatever she saw, provoked no change in expression, then her gaze was clear again and focused entirely on Mirai.

All illusions of innocence, warmth, and softness seemed to fall away, leaving someone who felt small, cold, and oppressed in her place. There was also a hint of impending change, the same kind of tension one might sense in the air right before a violent thunderstorm.

She didn't touch him again or answer his question, simply turned back to watch the practice. After a brief silence, she spoke again, voice soft and kind but also firm.

"Perhaps we should agree to a rain check on that coffee, Mirai-san."