The accusation that Ai was lying, even as gentle as it was, was enough that the girl flushed deep red and looked more torn than ever. "I– I really shouldn't be saying, it's not my place, and…"<br/><br/>She trailed off, seemingly at a loss for words before she stumbled back a little, clumsily getting up from where they were having tea together. "You, you really should ask Hata. It's his— he's in charge here. I just… help."<br/><br/>Despite how upset she seemed to be getting, she didn't flee immediately, lingering instead as she chewed on her lip and continuously restraightening her skirt as she looked over at Konoka, managing to look through her eyelashes despite Konoka still sitting down. "It's not something I can tell just anyone," she finally said, and it was unclear whether she was trying to convince herself, or suggest something to Konoka.