[The hug takes him by surprise, yet he welcomes it with open arms, returning the gesture by squeezing her tight, a big ol' smile plastered on his face. He likes hugs! Especially from good friends like Eresh. Cold, warm, either is good so long as it's heartfelt.]

Hehe, right back atcha, Ere. You try so hard for others. I really admire you.

[Though the topic shift is welcome, he can't help laughing a little at her apprehension. Not unkindly, though.]

Nah, I don't think so. Hiyori is pretty girlish, but she has a grip like a vice! The number of times she's put me in a headlock or caught me between her thighs would impress you.

[Look at these two dorks, so helpless in the romance department and getting their ideas from media. No wonder they have issues.]