However, in light of having known Toshisuke's "true nature," being tightly embraced together with him now... it just doesn't seem appropriate.
Upon hearing Aoto's apologetic voice, Toshisuke seemed to come back to his senses, his eyes regaining a twinkle of light.
"No, no worries, no need to apologize..."
Toshisuke hesitated for a brief moment, then slowly released his arms, separating from Aoto, and his two small feet landed back on the ground with a "pat."
Mukiwa probably never would have imagined... that Aoto had just been tightly embraced with a beautiful girl whose looks rivaled hers...
Suddenly, after Mukiwa, a voice quite familiar to Aoto rang out from nearby.
"Yo! Mr. Tachibana!"
It was the voice of Chiba Shigetarou.
Led by Chiba Dingji, a group from the Little Chiba Sword Dojo was coming over in a grand procession.
"Hmm..."
