Kou blinked, and his lost expression turned to surprise, which developed into fear. What if Kozue died?
He clasped a hand over his mouth and gave a lurch.
"Sorry. It's not like we're even out of school. It's ridiculous, really. You know it's me, so there's the assurance it could've been worse. We've not been going out long anyway. She could say no." He spoke quickly and nearly tripped over his own tongue. "You all right?"