[ In hindsight this sort of reaction probably does happen rarely - but as of late, it seemed to Hilda that it was becoming more and more common. She didn’t know what to make of that, except, perhaps, the obvious feelings that had emerged in the wake of a conversation that had nothing to do with them. The immediate conclusion she draws is that she doesn’t particularly enjoy it.

Thankfully it’s easier to distract herself from her flustered feelings as she marvels at the magic Sylvain manages to use so effortlessly. Envy and awe mix together, prickling at her skin. But more than anything admiration shines through in her gaze as she’s met with his impish grin. The shine in her eyes and the grin on her face hopefully gives all the approval that he’s looking for. ]

Show off. You’re really trying to take after the dragons, huh?

[ Something in her admiration softens then. Without thinking she reaches out, hand resting gently against the curve of his cheek. Like her body needed to be closer, wanted to make this realization tangible somehow. ]

I know. But I really wanted to do something for you because you always do everything for everyone else. [ The smile dims a little more, doubt edging into her quiet words. ] I’m not great at much but I’d like to think I can do something for someone I care about sometimes.