The warmth of touch had transferred from Banning's hand into the heart of Emilia.
— (Indeed, no matter when, as long as Banning is there, everything would be fine.)
As if coveting the warmth of a duvet on a winter's morning, Emilia had tightly gripped Banning's hand, as though holding on to him would ensure he would never leave.
Nevertheless, Emilia had a vague sense that even though she was holding Banning's hand, he still seemed immeasurably distant.
This alienation was not due to physical distance, but rather the disparity in their abilities. Although she had no concrete evidence, Emilia had a faint understanding that Banning had grown considerably since coming to Sunny Town, and that his entire aura had undergone a transformation.
If things continued this way, there would come a day when she was not even qualified to stand beside Banning - Emilia thought thus.