[ Hearing his thoughts out loud - how much he's been worrying about this, about her - brings tears to her eyes. Because she knows she'd be more than happy to just be courted by Takumi at all, but... his heart's in the right place. She'd be lying to him, and herself, if she said she didn't want to be a tailor anymore, and while being a prince's wife wouldn't necessarily stop her from working, she's always, always wanted to rebuild her parents' business. Honor them in the best way she knows how. And maybe it's a bit stubborn on her part, but she'd rather get her business started through her own efforts, not by virtue of being a member of Hoshido's royal family.

But it's that same stubborn streak that drives her to wrap her arms around him tight, sniffling over his shoulder, refusing to let him go so easily. ]

You're so kind, Lord Takumi... That's one of the many reasons I love you. [ She blinks back her tears as best she can, but a few still get away from her. ] There's so much I couldn't do if you weren't there with me... you've always encouraged me, and given me the strength I needed to keep moving forward. So even if I fulfilled my dreams, it wouldn't be the same without you.

[ A shaky breath. ] I. I want to be with you, for the rest of my life. So please, don't say you're holding me back... I need you, Lo- T-Takumi.