I'm not the kind of guy who teenage girls swoon over. [If only he knew.] I think it's about being a brother. Speaking of... what do people call little sisters in Japan? [He's not sure if he's ready to call her that out loud, but he wants to know.

He makes his move and then taps the mug.] I think we've settled that she doesn't need my permission for... well, I'm not sure she needs it for much of anything. It's usually stuff like wanting me to do something, like play in the snow with her or letting her help me with my research. Nothing serious--I mean, she doesn't ask for much. [Except, you know, for his love and attention. She might get jealous if he spends too much time with other people.]

How do you practice saying no without just saying no superfluously?