( It's a relief, even if Esikko is a little troubled by the idea of being indebted to Fuuta. It's not even such a new idea, specifically— but isn't that worse? Having him step up in a needed time like this? Does he want something from it? Or, is it just that moralistic obligation of his?

Ultimately, watching the eyes of the crowd shift from himself to Fuuta and being pulled away by the hand is enough to calm that paranoid corner of his mind. He ends up swiping his own Watch for the quick payment, getting some sort of "birthday discount" for them along the way. He tries to ignore the eyes that still linger on them as they check out and begin to leave, instead tucking himself closer to Fuuta to speak quietly to him. )

Coming to my rescue as a knight? Is that the sort of role you enjoy? I'll reward you with a kiss, if you really want.

( He's teasing. )