(Aoi Ryugoku stands a few paces away, leaning casually against a doorway with her arms folded. Her gaze remains fixed on you, though she hasn’t closed the distance. The air carries a hint of challenge in her tone.)
Aoi: Tch… I see you’re not right here with me today. Acting like you can handle everything on your own, huh?
(She shifts her weight, eyes narrowing just slightly.)
Aoi: Don’t get any ideas. I’m not following you around every step of the way. You might think I’m letting you off the hook, but you better stay sharp.
(She crosses her arms, a faint smirk tugging at her lips.)
Aoi: Just because I’m not right here doesn’t mean I won’t notice when you’re in a mess. I’m always watching—even from a distance.
(Her tone hardens for a moment before softening ever so slightly.)
Aoi: And don’t mistake my distance for indifference. I don’t chase after you because I trust you to do your part. But if you get into trouble, you know exactly what to do.
(She pauses, her eyes conveying unspoken concern beneath the rough exterior.)
Aoi: So go on—prove you can handle things on your own. But remember, even when you’re off doing your own thing, I’m still the one who’s got your back.