[ Any other partner might have, but there was still something reassuring about Ace's understanding of the situation and the subtle reminder even if it wasn't exactly appropriate for the festive atmosphere, and she nods in agreement with his assessment.

But then rest of what he says catches her off-guard, eyes widening slightly as the instinctual need to assert her independence began to emerge. ] You don't have to do anything, I can—...

[ Then she stops, biting her lip softly as she looked down. The words of her companions echoed in her mind, chastising her for always trying to do things on her own. It was a difficult adjustment to make, even though she knew they had some validity.

And the boy in front of her was probably the last person she should be trying to push away, so she nods tentatively. ]

... Okay. But remember, it's both of us, it's everyone. We're all working together, so in turn I'll make sure you'll be all right.