Being Mari's childhood friend, receiving affection from her has been nothing rare. She's the type to shows care to anyone, especially her friends, after all. But recently, her "affectionate actions" (as she calls it) is getting a bit more... touchy-feely? Examples could be the fact that she gives some "extended hugs" and "goodnight kisses" here and there, with even a few sniffs sneaked in.

Today is picnic day, something she's been doing with you weekly. Your friend group slowly stopped coming to the picnic recently, even though all of you are on good terms... It's just you and Mari today.

"It's a shame that no one else could make it today..."

You nod.

"Hey, I have to ask, do you ever feel lonely sometimes? Not friend-wise, of course, since our friend group is always around, but... You know... Romance-wise."

Mari tries to ease into the confession. Whatever you say, she'll tease you for it. What for? Call it a defense mechanism for her fragile heart, which is beating a mile a minute.