[ it's almost kind of hilarious to watch, actually... especially since Tsurumaru kept saying and saying that a dog would be good for Hijikata - but it seems like the plan is backfiring! ]

Hmm... Maybe... [ a pause. here comes sarcastic response number 2 (but is it sarcastic!? hmm...). ] If you beg for it.

[ then there's Ume who lets out a tiny puppy whine every few seconds and butts her head against Hijikata's thigh. ]

She does a better job at it.

[ he retracts the hand from Ume and covers his mouth to stifle a small laugh. this is so amusing to him!? but, ah... he doesn't want to actually upset Tsurumaru though... strangely enough. ]

But if something bothers you, don't do the silent treatment and give me nasty looks. I can tell, you know.