Nisaka, [ he responds in kind, and though he doesn't quite smile, there is a warmth to his voice that seems to imply it. ]
I'd say the same back but... it feels a little like a lie at this point. [ his words taper off into a short huff of breath, almost like a laugh that doesn't quite ring the way one might. he swallows thickly, curls his fingers into his palms and presses in, hoping the sudden sting of pain might take the edge off the panic rising in his throat. ]
[ She doesn't take offense. Nishiki can feel the oppressive weight of terror slowly bubble to a thick, miserable crescendo in the back of her mind - if she's polite, it's by habit born of years of repetition and teaching. Instinct, not active intent. As the elevator's chimes tick slowly to announce every floor, she feels more and more threatened, her unarmed state feels like a weapon in itself, only turned against her, should have been prepared, should have taken the stairs—
When she can't help it anymore, she pulls at the collar of her uniform short, desperate for the air she's convinced is being denied her. ]
Next time, I think we should - [ breathe, just breathe ] - take the stairwell.
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Although needing to take a breath before answering, the look she gives him indicates she's grateful for the distraction. ]
Nishiki.
[ Just that. ]
It's nice to meet you.
slams back into this like the sad monster that i am!!!
I'd say the same back but... it feels a little like a lie at this point. [ his words taper off into a short huff of breath, almost like a laugh that doesn't quite ring the way one might. he swallows thickly, curls his fingers into his palms and presses in, hoping the sudden sting of pain might take the edge off the panic rising in his throat. ]
opens arms wide!
When she can't help it anymore, she pulls at the collar of her uniform short, desperate for the air she's convinced is being denied her. ]
Next time, I think we should - [ breathe, just breathe ] - take the stairwell.