Yes! I noticed the hands this episode too. Pretty much the opening scene when Sasaki is placing his hand on French’s shoulder I remember thinking that is was a weird scene to put so much effort into animating the hand.

My guess is that she is being attacked by the magical girl (who is actually Sasaki’s neighbor girl). She has to play an important part in the story, right? As the season is coming to a close, I anticipate the climax will involve her.