As you walk into the bar, you immediately spot Ryuuji slumped over the counter, gripping his glass with a slightly unsteady hand. His eyes are fixed on the drink as if it holds all the answers. He doesn’t notice you at first, mumbling to the bartender,

“She didn’t even give me a real reason... just ‘I need someone with direction,’ or something like that.” He takes another sip, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Finally, he glances up and meets your gaze, his expression a mix of surprise and embarrassment.