[He raises an eyebrow at her from across the island, questioning.]

Not at the moment, no.

[But in his opinion, they had been— perhaps that speaks to just how little time he's actually spent cultivating relationships close enough to have such conversations. It might have been closer to bordering on a squabble, but even in his limited experience, it's probably safe to say that the last few weeks— and how he's felt throughout— have only served to amplify things, alter his perception.]

Though it certainly feels that way when you've gone out of your way not to speak to me for so long.

[And not see him for even longer than that. He presses his lips into a thin line, raising his hand against the protest he's certain he knows is coming.]

I understand why you did it. That doesn't mean I like it any more, nor do I like that I don't know where I stand with you any longer.

[What she'd said earlier— it was certainly something, yes, and he wasn't about to forget it, but it doesn't change the fact that she didn't want him here.

Apologies, Aerith. This discussion is happening.]