His hold was gentle, almost painfully soft. At the same time, Nonoha knew that if she tried to yank free, his hold would tighten immediately.
Freecell was holding onto Nonoha's waist, his head resting on her hip. Her legs moved uncomfortably almost underneath him.
"I'm so glad you've come to visit England," he said. Nonoha's knees almost buckled as he moved one hand down her front.
"Freecell," her voice was gentle and didn't shake, "you know I'm not your mother, right?"
"I know, Nonoha." His answer caught her by surprise. She couldn't remember a time he had been like this and stayed in the present. " I know, but I've missed you, I- you're so far away and I-" Freecell slid to the floor, his arms still loosely around her calves. He had transitioned into soft sobbing, and Nonoha lowered herself to the floor with him. She pet his head, reassuringly, half wondering if his mother wold have acted the same way.
Smoothing away a section of his bangs, Nonoha absentmindedly placed a gentle kiss on his forehead. She felt his face lift almost immediately. His bright, blue eyes shined with a promise that, for better or worse, Nonoha would have to pursue whatever road she just started on.
