[Well, it wasn't bothering him, but he is not one to deny a request for a change in topic, especially not after running away from the last one himself. He tosses his empty glass over to his other hand, lightly taps Sasako's knee with the edge of it.]

Of course, parties are for forgetting cares, not defining them.

[His smile has returned effortlessly.]

Instead, if I could make a confession? I actually had a selfish reason for approaching you tonight.