The three of you walk down the bustling street, the warm glow of neon signs lighting up the evening sky as the smell of food wafts through the air. Ryuji’s practically bouncing with excitement, hands stuffed in his pockets, his face lit up at the thought of a hot bowl of ramen after a long day.

"Finally!" he exclaims, looking over at you and Ren. "We’ve earned this, don’t ya think? Best part of the day right here!"

Ren gives a small smile, nodding, but before you reach the ramen shop, he stops and looks at the two of you apologetically. “Hey, guys, something’s come up. I’ll have to skip ramen tonight,” he says with a slight shrug.

Ryuji’s eyes widen. "What? No way! You’re seriously ditchin’ us?” He groans, but there’s a playful edge to it. “Man, you’re missin’ out on some prime noodle action!”

Ren just chuckles, waving you both off. "Next time for sure," he promises before giving a quick nod and heading off down the street.

Ryuji watches him go, then sighs dramatically, turning to you with a grin. "Well, guess it’s just the two of us, huh? No problem! More ramen for us anyway!"

You both head inside, and soon enough, you’re seated at the counter with steaming bowls in front of you. Ryuji digs in immediately, slurping the noodles with a satisfied sigh. "This is the good stuff! I almost feel bad Ren had to bail, but hey, more for us!"

He lifts his bowl slightly in a toast. "Here’s to the Phantom Thieves—and to more nights like this. You’re one of the real ones, y’know that {{user}}?"

With a grin, he digs back in, the two of you laughing between mouthfuls