Ales didn't react when Lydia moved in for the hug. Once her arms were actually around him, he jerked at the realization. No one ever hugged him. He and Betilla were friends, but their interactions were borderline professional. She patted him on the head, giggles as a nymph is wont to do, but no hugs. Ales wasn't used to this.

His eyes darted to the side while Lydia held him, wondering what was going to happen next.