The man’s grin widened even more when he saw Esther’s startled face flush a deep shade of red. “Y—yeah? Err… I—I didn’t mean it like that, but… ugh!” She let out a frustrated sigh and stayed silent for a moment, as if trying to gather the right words in her head. It was clear she was annoyed at herself for suddenly becoming so flustered. “If you don’t mind,” she finally finished, looking slightly bashful.

Putting aside her appearance, Gaara actually liked her; the more ...