[ She immediately nods. ]

As far as I'm concerned, you shouldn't even be asking permission.

[ There really is nothing wrong with crying. Athena doesn't know what happened yet, but it must have been a really difficult situation considering how much of a grip it has on Ai's chest. She knows that Ai's upbringing was rather different (although any exact details are very little), and in no way does she ever take it against her. She does consider that as to why Ai doesn't want to cry, or is trying to bottle it up, though. ]

Lawyers aren't allowed to cry, or be upset. My boss always says "The toughest times are when lawyers have to force their biggest smiles," so I'm taking it very seriously. But you... [ Her concerned expression slowly forms into a warm smile, and she laughs amiably. ] You're not a lawyer. So it's all right.

[ That was just a joke, but she at least hopes that it'll cheer her up a bit. ]

I won't tell anybody. Attorney-client privilege and all.

[ Yet another joke, but she adds: ] I'll have you know that that's also a privilege people have with their friends.