Well, this was something new. Ryoko definitely had relationships before in her past life. But it was the first time someone actually asked her out here. Or hugged her in this way ' Sure, she had physical contact with her family, but this was different.

The way the heat traveled from Ibiki 's chest into her back was different. The way his hands rested on her hips was different. And it was not unpleasant, she had to admit. Her eyes watched the fireworks, while her mind considered if she could trust his word for it.

Ibiki was definitely not the type to make jokes with her. Well.. not that kind of jokes, anyway. They playfully flirted for a while now and she didn 't think much of it until now. Was he serious even before?

People down in the square cheered as the sky cleared. She felt Ibiki shift behind her and lean close to her ear. 'See you soon, foxie, ' he whispered in that deep voice and planted a kiss on her neck. She felt shivers. And then he was gone.