The encouragement around her only caused Lunise to start clenching her jaw. All the comments built up until Meesei finally asked more directly. She returned the eye contact, quickly blinked twice, and a tension she had been holding in her arms and shoulders loosened with a silent outward breath.

"Meesei, I would rather not be pressured," Lunise said with a low voice, extending a flat hand. "If you do not mind. I think I should head back now." Her fingers curled and she swallowed. Meesei, at least, could see that she was holding something back.