Shingyo Style Secrets [Shishiyuki, Makoto]

That was a request Shishiyuki had absolutely not anticipated from Makoto, and she had to admit that, in this particular setting, even with her own lack of awareness of these sorts of things, she was a tad bit embarrassed at the thought. Of course, that was swiftly pushed aside, as she reminded herself of their relationship as teacher and student, and she paid no mind to the heat of embarrassment in her chest.

"Certainly, Makoto. I would be perfectly happy to."

Making her way to Makoto's side, Shishiyuki wrapped her arms around the younger woman and pulled her into a comforting embrace, as she had previously. The situation did make the whole affair seem a bit different, but Makoto had requested it, and Shishiyuki did not believe it would be fair to deny her simply because of how others might have theoretically taken it. Running her hands gently through Makoto's hair, Shishiyuki simply smiled, enjoying the quiet tranquility of the moment.

"Is this sufficient?"

It was certainly a bit unusual for Shishiyuki to be holding anyone so close when in a situation like this, but she would not have considered simply denying her student the request. She had a suspicion that this sort of earnest affection was not something Makoto received often.

Perhaps it was simply her imagination, but she felt as though Makoto's heartbeat was rather swift as she ran her hand down her young pupil's back. Was she nervous in this sort of situation? She supposed that was wholly reasonable, given the closeness between the two of them, and the intimacy of it. But all she could do was continue to assure her, keep her mind at peace.

"I am very glad to hear that."

Shishiyuki held her just a tad bit closer at that thought, more or less on instinct. It was simply in her nature to be protective of those she cared for, she supposed, and Makoto was certainly dear to her.

"Certainly, Makoto. We can stay here as long as you wish."

Shishiyuki was not entirely certain what it was about a situation like this that she was so willing to allow. Normally, she would have considered this far too personal, far too intimate. She kept others at more than an arm's length, even her niece, out of duty to her family. And yet, here she was, holding this young woman close in her arms without any concern for the situation.

"We ought to do this again, the next time you are free."

The words simply came naturally, even if at first she had thought she really ought not say them. Why not? Was there something about their relationship or the situation which meant she should be concerned about an offer like that?

Of course not.

"That is a shame. I would certainly have hoped we had a while longer, but I would not dream of asking you to avoid your duties."

If there was one thing that Shishiyuki understood very well, it was adherence to one's duties. With a touch of reluctance on her own end, she released Makoto from her embrace, and stood to dry herself off and dress once more. This had been rather exceptionally calming for her, in truth, and she would be all too glad to repeat it.

"I hope today's lessons have proven productive for you. Do your best to apply them, and I will look forward to your return."

The thought crossed Shishiyuki's mind to spend a bit more time on Earth, but that did seem as though it might be a bit much, didn't it? Yet, even so, there was something about it which she felt drawn to. She would have to think a bit more on that.