[Stay close to-!!!! That gets an undignified sputter out of him. Did he hear that one right? As if his chest isn't already heating up, it's now as if someone is cooking up a fire inside his chest.]

Wh-what are you saying... Foolish Monika.

[He didn't use stupid or idiot, but regardless there's vague affection behind the namecalling. Not even the monotone can hide the little affections sprouting inside him.

He didn't meant to damper the light mood they're having by bringing up war, but it at least explained how he never had much time for anything.... or even able to experience normalcy until he found Monika. Let's move on.

His blush isn't going away, especially with that gentle stroking to his flushed cheeks, but the warmness of her palm against him draws in some amount of comfort at least. Between her slip up and the gentle stroking, it's difficult to not think that she may hold some feelings towards him. And it's difficult to ignore his own towards her.

Something platonic.... Right?]

How much will you charge? [Because he's willing to pay to have her read to him.] A... Picture would be good. I wouldn't mind a copy on some stationery, as well... If you have the time.

[With Monika settled against him, he scoots closer so his hips join hers. His other hand ghosts his finger over Monika's arm as well, returning her her soft gesture to his knuckle. As she reads, he sinks further into his imagination. Her change of tone brings about new emotions. The desire changes into something more... softer and quieter. A quiet ride through the wind with Monika resting on his seat.

It's much more sweeter than her whimsy tone earlier. Once she's done reading, he softly mutters:]

Thank you, Monika.