[While teasing Natsuru is a little fun, Maria lets her have the reprieve of hiding in the pastry, instead returning her attention to her own food for a few moments with no more than a knowing smile on her face. While it is a bit sad that Natsuru's gone to the rival agency, it seems she and Hibiki have an interesting relationship already.

At Hibiki's question, she swallows her bite of food and shakes her head.] Sadly, no. Natsuru's confidence has been improving, but I think it's something like this that might give her the boost to really perform.

[Of course, Maria could have asked, but with her being in a position of power over Natsuru, it would've felt too much like pushing it to her.]