Just Keep Running [Tento | Hana ]

Tento couldn't help but chuckle softly at Hana's playful irritation. Her words brought a lightness to the moment, despite her clear exhaustion. He gently held her hands, which were placed on either side of his face, and looked into her eyes with warmth. "Well, Hana," he said with a smile, "maybe I did borrow a few extra inches here and there. But look at it this way. Being tall means I can always spot you in a crowd, and it makes it easier to keep an eye on you, everyone, to make sure you're safe”.

He leaned in slightly, making sure she felt his presence and support. "But height or no height, what's important is I give my all like you did today. You've been amazing today, and I couldn't be prouder of you." Gently brushing a strand of hair away from her face, Tento added, "Now, let's get you some rest. You've more than earned it”.

With a tender smile, Tento leaned in and gave Hana a soft peck on the lips, a gentle gesture of affection and reassurance. As he pulled back, he chuckled and said, "You know, Hana, it's a lot of work to give you a kiss when I have to kneel down this much. But for you, it's worth it."

Tento felt the sting of Hana's slap, both physically and emotionally. The silence after its impact and her gasp that followed was heavy, filled with the weight of his mistake. His eyes went wide, the fingertips of his left hand slowly raising to tap his cheek. Why…why did she… what did I?

He took a short deep breath as his head slowly turned back to Hana. A flash of hurt confusion before quickly softening an exhale came as he closed his eyes and heard her words. What have I done? he thought, guilt washing over him. I should have known better. Done better there

Tento opened eyes, his heart aching as he saw the shock. He had made her uncomfortable, scared in the moment. But worst yet, there was disappointment and hurt in her eyes. He bowed his head as he straightened, more of a gesture in apology than to have eye level contact. “Hana…”, he began. The normal bright warmth that he usually spoke with her faded into a soft cold regret.

“I’m so sorry," he began, his voice soft and filled with regret. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I should have stopped and asked if that was okay… I had thought…”. He took a step back, giving her space.

When did she though? Always? Recently? "No matter. I did it. I crossed a line with you. I won't blame you if you don't wish to see me again after today or stop the training ”.

How could he not know she was not dating someone? How could he think she had some sort of attraction to him? That it would be okay right now with how she was feeling. With everything going on. “I'm sorry for today. I never ensued to hurt you or betray your trust. I respect you and your relationship”. He paused feeling he should leave. But that would be the easy thing to do. It wasn't right to leave just like that given what he did. Besides. Hana wasnt really in a state to move herself. He wouldn't be able to forgive himself if he found out something happened to her if he left. "So…I can leave you along. After we get to a safer area and finish the rest of the way back. Please?".

It was uh…strange. Looking at Hana right now. Was this really a woman he just try to make a show of affection towards or a school teacher showing her disappointment at the actions of a student? The amount of grace she was showing felt…weird. Too dignified. Too…away. Was this level of refinement true to her soul or was there a bigger storm going on within he wondered? Regardless, he felt a mix of relief and lingering guilt as Hana accepted his apology. Her composed demeanor and calm acceptance only made him respect her more. Despite the lingering confusion and feelings inside.

He took a breath, making a silent vow to never overstep her boundaries again. "Hana, thank you for your grace and understanding," he said, his voice steady but filled with sincerity. "My regret and the shock it has caused you. Your composure, reminds me of the respect and trust that must always come first. I promise you, I will never take such liberties again".

He stood to the side as she stood up and he spotted her softening eyes. "I hope this can serve as a step towards mending any discomfort I've caused. In time".As they began to walk, Tento matched his pace to hers, ensuring she felt supported and not rushed. He knew that actions would speak louder than words, and he was determined to show Hana that he respected her boundaries as a person and valued their connection.

…he had to rub that cheek on his face for awhile though.