Because I'm your friend, for one. I'm his friend, for another. And because I've been wondering why you've been about to fly away with happiness since I walked into the cafe.

[Rei exhales slowly. Tiredly, even. Her heart remains steady, and she's obviously not angry, if Athena's listening. She's trying something else out, breathing exercises to contain her own emotion, seeing how long she can fool Athena.

She takes a step closer...]