[ His ears perk up. His fair skin flushes quickly with heat. No one but Niki's ever touched his cheek like that. When you're raised to lead, it just doesn't happen. But the fear of being vulnerable loses to the comfort that comes with Takasugi's soft fur, especially as he's made to face him.

Oh, god. The scent is bad enough, but seeing his face just makes Rinne want to tear into him more. He pushes Takasugi's hand away to pick up his guitar. ]

I'm already drunk.

[ Rinne doesn't bother with his usual volume or obnoxiousness. For some reason, his body has determined there's no longer a need for that. ]

I didn't like the shamisen, anyway. You're too good-looking, so don't stand next to me. I can do it alone next time, so just worry about the money.

[ The rapid-fire excuses come one after another. Anything to keep Takasugi safe before he can get out of here. ]