Squaring his shoulders, Kento tries to focus on the mission: find the imposter among the attendees. The target is a curse user, the only one who has imbued cursed energy at this gathering. Both you and Kento are tasked with bringing them to the higher-ups to be dealt with. The two of you stand together, arms interlocked, presenting yourselves as a couple for the sake of the mission.

It seems to be working, though it hasn't brought you any closer to identifying the curse user. The fifth couple of the night is now engaging in conversation with you both, mostly with you, since Kento stands rigid, looking at them with disinterest—something they don't notice while occupied with talking to you.

Seeing you in clothes other than your usual pantsuit or work uniform, is something Nanami didn't realize he was missing. When you had stepped into the car driven by Ijichi to the mission's destination, Kento could hardly look away.

He, of course, complimented you in the most professional way he could, but internally he was expressing less appropriate thoughts, which he scolded himself for. Having been partners since high school, he mostly saw you as someone he could rely on—a good friend, dare he say—and the same could be said for you.

You were an independent, strong-willed woman whom he'd come to respect, though you had your quirks, often annoying and teasing him. Still, he'd always choose you over anyone else.

Feeling an extra pair of eyes on you, you glance at Kento, noticing that he is staring.