[All the tension in his body immediately melts away at the feeling of Kaede's lips against his cheek, and he can't fight back the wide, adoring grin that spreads over his face as he looks at her, reaching up a hand to rub at Kaede's head.]

Yeah, you're right. And I don't want you worrying about me either. I'll remember that. [Leaning in, he places a kiss on her forehead before trying to engulf her into his arms again, a much more affectionate hug than the desperate one he'd held her in a few seconds ago.]

You've grown up so much, I'm so proud of you. To think that some day you're going to be a big, strong, intelligent lady. I better be careful, since I'll get too old to say no to anything you tell me. I wouldn't even last a three count! [Ignoring the fact that she can already bend him to her will with just her pinkie finger alone.]