[Whether he had intended to lighten the mood with such words or not, it was enough to incite a weak smile from the melodist as she looked back down at her hands, willing them to relax from their rigid state.]

Maybe... It would depend on what it is you want. [On what she wanted, though she knew a resolution wouldn't come so easily. The answer had been simple enough all those months ago when she first arrived, finding that the best way to cope was to simply close her heart and try to cast away such sentiments for the sake of that person and her own. Though the ache had lessened with time, the situation served to remind her that it was still there, in the silence that had followed her words.]

Mystearica...? [The little moogle floated over and placed a paw on her shoulder gently, catching his Hero's attention even if she didn't turn to him just yet.] I don't think it'll be like last time, kupo...

[... Ah.]

... Sein. [She gives the moogle a look that clearly said they would have a talk about this later, eliciting a terrified squeak from him followed by his quick departure from the scene upon realising his slip-up (or so she thinks). The girl herself takes a few slow and careful breaths, her smile becoming more wistful.]

Maybe I should consider myself lucky that he thinks he's looking out for me...