At those words, Lith finally understood Phloria’s change of heart. If on one hand he found reassuring that he wouldn’t have to stand an insipid puppy love, on the other one he felt offended.

“You sure know how to catch a man’s heart.” His voice oozed sarcasm.

“I didn’t get so many insults at once since that time I tripled the healing fare to a merchant for being a rude prick.”

His words made Phloria chuckle, but she didn’t let him go, nor he tried to push her away.

“I didn’t insult you. I just stated the truth. I dare you to deny any of the above.”

“Well, yeah. All the more reason why you shouldn’t consider me boyfriend material. Especially after hearing my story. Despite being only twelve, I’m already a broken mess. If you want to have fun, you can have much better.”

“That’s not true!” She held him even tighter, like she was trying to console him   “First, you are not my boyfriend. We have a lot of time to know each other better, let’s use it wisely. Second, you are my best friend in the academy for more than one reason. Under that cynical shell, you are kind and caring.