[ The sound of her laughter soon had Ace reciprocating with a content grin that grew slightly wider at her eventual admission. Little by little, he would get to the core of the truth that she so cautiously kept hidden away from the world, but first….

… First, he would slide his arms around her body for a stronger hold before falling backwards, using the blanket as his cushion and taking her with him, so she was now lying on top. He couldn't bring himself to feel any remorse for temporarily obscuring her vision of the fireworks - the show lasted an hour, giving them enough opportunities to watch it yet. ]

If it's not asking for too much… I would like a seat in the front row. [ A blush filled his cheeks as he considered that, one of his hands breaking free to continue playing with her hair while the other arm stayed securely wrapped around her waist. ] I'd be happy to ward off any doubts you might have. Somebody needs to.

[ Punctuating his statement with a light tap to the girl's nose, he smirked, though his tone then became surprisingly serious. ]

I know how it feels, being unable to imagine your life outside from what you've always known to be true. You want to provide an example for others, your family... it seems hardly appropriate to put your own dreams ahead of the responsibilities.