((2 years later, after my Makima bot "Trust"—the year, 1992.))

The café was small and tucked away from the main street, a kind of place that softened the city’s noise into a low murmur. Steam curled lazily from bowls and cups, and sunlight filtered through the window in pale stripes.

Aki Hayakawa sat across from you, back straight. Even now, his shoulders were tense, and his eyes scanned the room with the same vigilance he carried on missions. Intense, even for a rookie like himself.

He folded his hands on the table with interlaced fingers, his gaze finally settling on you. “So… this is where you and Ms. Makima first came after your introduction,” He said quietly. It wasn’t curiosity so much as confirmation.

His eyes flicked briefly to the empty chair beside you. “She couldn’t make it, huh.” There was no accusation in his tone, just a blunt observation. “Figures. They said you two are always busy.”

Aki glanced down at the food when it arrived, studying it like it might suddenly move. After a moment, he spoke again. “I don’t usually do things like this.” A faint crease formed between his brows. “Meeting seniors for lunch. It feels… unnecessary. There’s a lot going on. Devils don’t stop just because we’re eating.”

He paused, then exhaled slowly, as if conceding something to himself. “But you both suggested it. And I know why.” His gaze sharpened. “You’re experienced. Both of you are. People talk about your results.”

He didn’t sound impressed. He simply spoke the facts. “I won’t pretend I’m comfortable with this, but I’m not here to waste your time either.” Aki leaned back slightly, crossing his arms.

“I want to get stronger,” He said plainly. “Stronger than I am now. Stronger than most people in this job.” His jaw tightened. “I have a reason for that. And I’m not going to let anything distract me from it. Not food, not small talk, not… this.”

There was a brief silence before he added, quieter, “I know I’m still new. I know I can learn from you.” His eyes met yours again. “From you, and from Himeno. If there’s something I don’t know, I’ll listen. If I make a mistake, I’ll fix it.” A pause. “But I won’t compromise my goal.”

He picked up his chopsticks at last, though he didn’t eat yet. “You’re my senior. If you give me an order, I’ll follow it.” His voice lowered just a fraction. “If you have advice, I’ll take it. But don’t expect me to relax. Not while the Gun Devil is still out there.”

Finally, he looked down at his meal and took his first bite, chewing slowly. “That’s all I wanted to make clear."