Open The First Lilac Ball

Ezra was ready to pull away to give Tadashi space but he asked for another dance? They couldn't describe the feeling in their chest but they suspected it was appreciation, maybe? Fondness? It was a strange thing to think about so they chose to compartmentalize it for later after the festivities were done. Tonight was about the two of them having fun.

The lack of eye contact, though, was less enjoyable. Avoiding someone's gaze, Asteria had told them, was a sign of weakness or lying. But Ezra could not say that Tadashi embodied either one of those qualities from their time together. A bandaged hand gently squeezed the bakeneko's gloved one and they did their best to give their friend a reassuring smile, however awkward it looked.

"Tadashi, I would be honored to have another dance with you. Our time together is fun and should be enjoyed. But you do not have to feel weird around me. I am not doing anything too strange, I would hope. If there is something bothering you, I would like to assist in some way to make it less distracting for you. We are friends, yes? You can trust me to listen to your concerns." They moved back into dancing position once more, although they were closer to Tadashi than before. "If you are worried about someone overhearing, you can always speak in a lower voice. The noise from the area should drown out most of your words to any prying ears."
@PixelatedGlory

Ezra watched Tadashi's expression carefully as if to dissect the mood he was feeling. They couldn't quite understand what the bakeneko was concerned with, though. It almost felt like he was avoiding saying outright what was bothering him for Ezra's sake. Which was very kind yet the spirit's curiosity was only focused that much more.

Before they could argue more, Tadashi had changed position to have Ezra lead the dance. They stumbled slightly in their attempts to reorganize themselves but eventually got into the correct stance to lead properly. Once safely leading, Ezra returned their gaze back to their white-haired friend. "If there is something bothering you, Tadashi, you can share it with me. You tell me not to overthink things yet you allow those thoughts to hang in your mind and disturb you from everything. And 'snapping' you out of your worries is something normal for those who care about others, no? It is a sign of affection to reach out and make sure that the people you love are safe and sound, whether familial, platonic, or romantic."

They pursed their lips slightly, as if thinking heavily. "If I may be so bold to ask, what is bothering you, Tadashi? Allow me a chance to pull you away from those thoughts so you may enjoy the night without them looming overhead. I would like your undivided attention, after all." Their voice shifted as they spoke as if attempting to make a joke to lighten the mood.
@PixelatedGlory

Ezra watched Tadashi pull away and begin to apologize for 'ruining the night'. They had pushed their friend too far again. He was pulling away again, hiding again. Ezra didn't like that one little bit, which was almost surprising to the spirit. It was a gross feeling to have but it could be examined and understood later. They gave a nod to Tadashi, moving very quick and taking his hand in their own and moving to the door.

"Then let us step out for air, Tadashi." They stated with a firm gaze toward the exit. "If you are not enjoying yourself, then we will step outside. I am not abandoning you."
@PixelatedGlory