[Sorry, did Ayaka want to finish that thought?? Practically the moment she asks, he moves to wrap an arm around her shoulders, hugging her closer. Just this much contact feels so much better, allowing a content sigh to pass by his lips before he replies.]

I'm probably a lot more okay with it than you think. I just-- don't want to suggest anything that would make you uncomfortable.

[Consider: every suggestion so far has been him holding back.]

You're a really important friend to me, and... I know things like this can make friendships complicated. I've been here a lot longer, after all.