This conversation was frustratingly hard to script. 
It still doesn’t read great. Also, I wanted Seiko to look angry/frustrated in panel 1. The expression looks okay, but I’m not sure what emotion it ended up being. It seems to fit, so I left it alone.
Oh, and thanks for being patient with me last week. It’s been kinda crazy at work, and I’m mentally and physically fatigued.
Great page
I’m kind of confused why she would all of a sudden bring this up anyway. I guess being with Tristan has increased her confidence abit.
Seiko is socially inexperienced, but she is an adult, grounded by a logical and theory-driven brain. So, she recognizes that this is a question that requires a solid answer for the sake of future non-awkward interaction. It’s uncomfortable, but it must be addressed. (Of couse, Eric is versed and happy with non-commital flirting and undefined relationships. He also might not have realized how no-nonsense Seiko can be when pressed by circumstance.)
As for why it happened NOW– Friendships can build that tension of attraction and uncertainty that eventually causes either a burst of brave honesty or a period of almost fearful avoidance. Seiko likely requires definition at this point to lay down her own boundries, maybe even a firm rejection and declared commitment to Tristan. Eric already knows of that relationship, so there is a chance his explanation/rejection is a lie simply to make things simpler for her. It’s hard to say.
In any case, the charismatic blonde might have his days numbered. Best not to have unanswered questions…