Yuna's question arrived after professional work ended, but the empty planning room still carried festival authority around us. My attraction wanted one efficient personal exception before honest uncertainty returned between us. Relationship Agreement v1.0 contained no convenient shortcut around the independent adults whose lives it protected.
"No, my current rules do not permit a date with you," I said without adding a hopeful ending.
Yuna kept one steady hand upon the metal door while receiving my unambiguous refusal. Her expression tightened because an honest no could still disappoint someone who respected its source.
"Do they forbid me, or does the agreement simply cover two partners?" she asked.
"It covers Nina and Thea, while any new pursuit requires fresh independent discussion before I ask," I replied.
