[ It might have been phrased like a joke, but in the light of things, Ace couldn't exactly disregard it as a possibility, distant as it was. There was no questioning her good intents, of course, but if anything were to cause him to steer clear from repeating similar mistakes in the future, it would be that exact, frightening thought. ]

Well... I can only resist up until a certain point.

[ Though his words had lightness to them, still, his grip on the railing momentarily tightened, but that was as far as he would let on when it came to his feelings on the matter. If she was willing to give him a second chance without even knowing the details, it counted as a reassurance that these weren't the kind of thoughts he should be having right now.

After all, the evening was still young. ]

You could always sing about it instead. [ As ridiculous as it might initially sound, he quickly decides to push it even further. ] Imagine that it's the only way to let your thoughts be known, and maybe that's where you would find your confidence.

[ Finally, he allows himself a smile in return. ]

But talking is fine, too.