Mika noticed the gazes of Charlotte's teammates lingering on him, on them. Wide-eyed, embarrassed, but undeniably fascinated.
He sighed, turning his face toward Charlotte, who was still clinging to him, rubbing her cheek against his chest, her legs wrapped firmly around his waist like a stubborn child refusing to let go.
"Come on, Charlotte." He said, his tone a mix of exasperation and amusement. "It's about time you let go of me. I came here to stop your lab from exploding, not to stand around as your personal tree for you to hang off."
But Charlotte only tightened her grip, shaking her head furiously.
"No, Mika, no. Just a little longer. You don't understand, I was so scared just a moment ago. I thought everything was going to end. I need you...just for a bit. To get through this trauma."
Her words sounded trembling and vulnerable, but her sparkling eyes and playful smile betrayed her.
