[This would be a more scandalized reaction if he wasn't already used to this. Instead, he just sighs.]

No, not romantically. We have known each other since we were children, and we have always been by each other's sides.

[Why is he being so cavalier about this? Perhaps it's because Tenka's gone, and so there's really little point in prevarication. Or maybe he's just tired--or both.

And, in the wryest tone:]

That said, I was able to survive without him for ten years. Do not be so quick to write me off as poorly adjusted.