[Of course it's win/win. Don't look so tense, Masaomi. Alexis crouches next to him, lips pressed together and speaking softly -- and hoping her rambling to Nala isn't overheard. Failing that, commented on.]

Okay, Nala. I've been practicing and I'd really like to be able to do this. Maybe with a minimum of difficulty and fuss. ...Not that you've ever given me a fuss. Usually it's the other way around. But I'm listening and trying.

[And she's still rambling softly under her breath as she raises her hand and held it just over the spot Linda had grabbed him.

... Hey, look. It's working.]