[ WOW?????? catch this disapproving FROWN manuela, how very dare you also imply she's a sore loser. even though she accepts she is one. ]

Hmph. We don't have to do this same dipping everyone's been doing — there's plenty other ways to carry someone. Some you must know, teaching at the kind of school you do.

[ There's challenge in her voice, leaning in since Manuela does too, though her arms are crossed defensively over her chest. ]

I'll carry you. [ a beat, and then dryly: ] Unless you think you can carry me.