(D1 EE common room) tea for one or two?

[Usogawa Emiko]

Emiko looked thoughtful for a moment, turning the cup in her hands.

"Hmm...I can speak to Shika-sama to see if he approves of the idea. You seem very convinced by it Shosuro-san, did my music have that much of an impact?" her blue eyes looked up at his.

[Shosuro Hikimasu]

It isn't every night you wake to a living dream bathed in moonlight, wrapped in song.

...

"Oh good, i didn't say that out loud" he seemed relieved, then his eyes actually flashed something resembling life and he looked away. "I mean, i can't just say that..."

[Usogawa Emiko]

"Huh? Didn't say what?" Emiko said, confused "ano, is everything ok Shosuro-san? Maybe you should have some tea?" she gently nudged the cup near him.

[Shosuro Hikimasu]

He lowered his mask to sip. It had cooled off a bit much but he still drank it up. When he put the cup down he shook his head, replacing his mask again. "You heard what I said the other night", he reminded her. "You know that I enjoyed it." He folded his arms into his sleeves and looked away.

"There are some things you can explain so hard you can ruin them, maybe."

[Usogawa Emiko]

Emiko did look thoughtful at that.

"Hmm...I understand. After all, you've paid me the most lovely compliment already."

[Shosuro Hikimasu]

"Did I? I don't think I did anything that great", he said. Of course, he'd been trying to do just that, but to say he'd ever been sure of success on anything in life...aside once...would be a lie.

[Usogawa Emiko]

"Yes you did" Emiko motioned to the flute, and smiled warmly "you bought a flute to play music. I know that wasn't just because me, but I'd like to think playing last night made you want to do it."

[Shosuro Hikimasu]

It was a great effort to not say something else denying that, so he simply bowed his head. "Sometimes people have a positive effect on each other", he grumbled, looking away still.

It wasn't something that happened to him often, more likely he was trying to find something good in a bad situation. Though sitting at the table with her he couldn't help but feel slightly optimistic. Though it was too soon to be happy.

"So, thank you."

[Usogawa Emiko]

Emiko shook her head.

"You don't need to thank me Shosuro-san. It makes me happy that you're wanting to play more, music is something that should be shared with the world and inspire others. Now Shosuro-san can do as I have done. It's wonderful, ne?"

[Shosuro Hikimasu]

"That remains to be seen", he said, amused quipping in his voice. "When I share with the world it does say thank you, but no."