There was that safe feeling again-- the one she'd always had when he was holding her, either up to his level, or when he was bowed down to hers. But now he was warm and solid, and she couldn't help but stand there for a few minutes longer than was strictly necessary. High-level esper or not, there were times when even Naomi just needed that sense of security and comfort.

"You'd better not." Her voice was low as she looked up, moving one hand to impatiently whisk away a few tears. "If you do that... without at least telling me good-bye first... I'm never speaking to you again."