[ To think that the B-Cube incident could have such a revelation for Shino. The one who's confused here is Shi Qingxuan, and he's trying to connect the dots since, for once, Shino isn't telling his feelings plainly and openly.

Maybe that's better? No, it just feels uncomfortable when he's used to complete honesty from him. Shino steps away, and Shi Qingxuan doesn't know what to do with his hands beyond flicking open the fan tucked into his belt and start fanning himself. He's not flushed, and if anything he's paler than usual, but the brush of wind on his face feels good.

Fine, fine, if Shino is confused, then he'll be the one to say things outright! ]

I didn't know you and Konoha had that kind of relationship. Not that you need to tell me everything— [ But he's the one that was so forthright with his feelings before, so can he be a little shocked now? ] —and if you want to spend Iris with her, of course that's your own choice to make. I really don't understand jinba as well as she does...

[ As inadequate as he feels now, he's the one who's said it, so it doesn't sting too badly.

But it still stings. ]