[ This— all of this. It's never been something Ayaka's ever considered doing. Sure, people have shown interest in her. Heirs of clans sending gifts to the Shirasagi Himegimi, only for them not to receive any answer from her directly. Either it was her elder brother doing the responding, or someone else. It's just... to be with someone for the rest of your life for the sake of work, or for a name... that truly defeats the purpose of marriage. Ayaka watched her mother and father's relationship growing up. They both supported each other and showed each other that they loved the other. One of these days, Ayaka hopes to find someone she can rely on the same way her mother found someone.

Of course, marriage is far from her thoughts now! She laughs again, shaking her head this time, before looking at Cloud with a fond expression on her face. It's almost reminiscent of when family or close friends would say something silly. Little does she know, it's that same expression of fondness her mother had when she would watch her family. Guess it must be something she inherently picked up from her mom growing up.

Cloud may or may not say these things in the same way her suitors have, but... this is Kamisato Ayaka's response. ]

If I may, [ She squeezes his hand gently to keep his attention on her, her chin resting on his arm (because she can't reach his shoulder??!?! JAJDJAD) as she leans on him. ] I'd like to correct you. A crane is not the same as a heron.

While the heron appreciates your compliment, she would like you to pay attention to the poem, too.

[ This isn't about her, Cloud! Tsk, tsk. Despite all that, though, it doesn't seem like she's against any of this. Keep holding her hand, Cloud. Stay with her. Talk about anything and everything with her. The Daijuu in her wants your affection, so... please. ]