As soon as Sadie has mentioned the extended family party, an apology and retraction are poised to be offered only to then fade when the decline becomes an invitation. Relief apparent, he nods with a smile as he rises up to his feet and gives her hands a ginger tug to request her to follow, “I will have to actually ask my aunts before I can accept for them, but I wouldn’t miss it.” The new formal outfit can certainly wait if attire for the party is more casual.

Once Sadie is also standing, he’ll step closer and tilt his head to kiss her softly with hands held together between them. Lingering a moment in the gesture, he’ll part to ask her with a glance towards the gifts, “You’ll have to send me the details for dinner and the party, but for now…would you like me to carry your kotatsu upstairs so you can test it out?”