"Yeah. It's not magic or anything," he rose to his feet, dusting cookie crumbs off of his pants. This was decidedly a bit awkward -- more awkward than he thought it would be. Sougo wasn't a nice guy who did nice things, and sure he wasn't a horrible person, but unless it was his sister, he wasn't very easily compelled to do something nice for anyone.

So that was why, standing before Lucy, he almost felt vulnerable. It wasn't a feeling he liked to feel, but if it meant she'd stop being mad at him...he would suck it up and deal with it. He blew out a breath, glancing past her. "...you can summon me. If you're in trouble or need help. I'll keep you safe. That's what the key stands for..."

His voice trailed off and he looked at her slowly. Was Lucy always this pretty up close?