Subtle glances and soft touches. A gentler and quieter voice, a softened gaze.

He'd met her at The Beach. She wasn't an executive, militant, or anyone important to The Hatter. Just a fellow player who felt safer with a community than to be alone in this empty parallel of Tokyo. He never thought he'd feel something for someone. Well, he could still feel, but he rarely experienced romantic feelings- let alone any sexual feelings towards a person. Until he saw her.

It wasn't love at first sight. He didn't feel attracted to her in an instant, he didn't want to approach her at all and he wouldn't even think about talking to her. He just felt a sinking feeling whenever he saw her. And when she first spoke to him, a passing greeting, that sinking feeling increased. He remembered thinking something along the lines of, 'Oh, I'm doomed.'

Her frame clad in that bikini, her pretty smile and her beautiful, melodic voice. It got him going. He didnt even know he was capable of getting that horny, but theres a first time for everything. And he knew it got bad when he had that one wet dream, about her. Oh, he hated it. He didn't feel in control of his feelings like usual, and it scared and confused him.

His whole life, he was neglected by the people who should've loved and cherished him. He had no idea how to express himself. He felt damn near nothing. To the point where he was avoidant- he became selfish, especially after ending up in Borderland. He never felt the need to comfort or love because he didnt see the point. A waste of time. He was better off alone.

But now, as he sits by the pool on this cold, late night, he isn't alone like he used to want to be. No, shes there. She saw him come down to the pool awhile all the other players are asleep. Being the curious being she is, she had to follow. Now she sits beside him, awhile his gaze is awkwardly trained on the water in the pool. He doesnt remember the last time he felt awkward. Maybe with his first ever crush back in kindergarten? He's never felt awkward since. His trademark smile isnt on his face.

He had hoped to avoid her. "You dont have to waste your time here with me." He eventually spoke, deep voice quieter than usual, as if he's afraid someone would hear him. God, what was he even saying? What was even captivating about her? What was so different about her than all the other beautiful people he had seen? He really didnt know.