[ He can excuse "Bosslady". But it's when she suddenly goes, "He's my bro, though!" that he has to do a double take. But the moment that he does? It's not to fix her with a confused, furrowed brow. No. Instead, a dainty gloved hand covers up his lips instead as they walk, eyes bright and wide. ]

My gosh... Based on the times I've met with Lady Yae, she doesn't seem like somebody you wish to get on the bad side of.

If it were me, I would still share it. [ A beat. ] It'd just be our little secret.

[ He doesn't even realize he's subtly winked as he looks back at Ayaka. It's not like he's forgotten who he was, or how he'd normally act. So, ]

Dear me. I think this is what they were implying back at the Guild. When they say that this tree changes you.