[Oof, that... That is certainly a comparison that she's drawing, there. He knows what she means to say, but it does stir a bit of flustered nervousness to have his partnership with Sholmes put on that particular level. Not only that, but there's a bitter question in the back of his mind; one which asks whether his marriage to Ayame would've withstood it.

He looks away, clearing his throat softly.]

I... I suppose that's true. Though, now that our dynamic has changed, I do wonder... [He wonders whether that change will break their partnership. A very childish concern, but one he can't quite shake. He doesn't want to bother Susato with it either, though.] ... Well, we'll have to wait and see just how it develops. I assume it's the same for you and Kazuma.