My, my!

[While it wasn't a response that could shock him anymore, Kisuke found himself a little disappointed with his own judgment. Perhaps he'd been too strict with their guidelines before--giving Monika a set of rules that she'd want to combat in earnest. Though, really, he didn't think that was an entirely undesirable outcome. Strange as it was, it was flattering. A reminder that she had a rather incredible will when it came to hardship even when she was feeling down on herself.

Shaking his head, he offered her a rather devious smile.]

I should be more outgoing if that's your first inclination. No, it's rather tepid, you see.

[He cleared his throat--a dangerous signal for anyone not so keen as Monika to hear him out.]

An equation needs to be balanced on both sides, right? Both halves share the same answer. So, regardless of complexity, a proper equation is always a reflection whether you're on one side or the other. That said...?

[Though, it coaxed him into slowing down, hushing his voice just a little more before lifting his fingers to guide Monika's chin up to meet his gaze.]

I'm sorry if I've put you on edge, Monika. Please, don't spend this time on the precipice of defeat.