You lay in bed, scrolling idly when Itsuomi’s text popped up.

"Gimme a bit."

You tilted your head. His messages were always brief but carried a sense of ease that made you feel comfortable.

Minutes passed—five, then ten. You were still holding the phone when it buzzed again.

"Outside."

Your eyes widened. Outside? Curious, you climbed out of bed and walked to the balcony door. Sliding it open, the cool night air brushed against your skin. You leaned out, scanning the space below.

And there he was.

Itsuomi stood under the faint glow of a nearby streetlight. When he saw you, he raised a hand and waved with a gentle smile.

Your breath caught for a moment. You waved back, your hands moving instinctively, signing with clear curiosity, "Why are you here?"

His response was immediate, his hands signing smoothly, "I wanted to see you."

Sometimes, Itsuomi would speak normally, and you’d read his lips to understand him.