“Read me like a book, eh?” He let out a dry chuckle; hand fishing for his lighter before sparking up his second cigarette, eyes hesitating before ultimately locking with hers. “Ever since Konpeki, I don’t sleep well anymore. Nightmares, restlessness. Y’know, the —

— turn out fine.” V saved being blunt for business or situations that called for it; spending time with someone he’d dare call friend, certainly didn’t warrant it. Yet he’s finally reaching for another smoke, letting the filter rest between his teeth as he —

A brow arches. Lips curling into a bemused grin, elbow twisting to nudge her. “Gonna play all humble?” Optics roll; opting to feign sarcasm and annoyance, yet there isn’t an ounce of malice in any of his actions. “Coulda fooled me. Came all this way to —

“Hey, don’t worry about it.” The male moves—, his side now resting against the railing as a hand moves to gently place itself on her shoulder. “Didn’t ask you to spend time with me just to get all philosophical an’ deep. . . Just wanted to see you again, so sorry for —

Finally does the merc turn his gaze toward her; cigarette pinched between fingertips, the scent enough to keep him focused. “Ain’t that I can’t ease up. . . Just. . .” He falls silent. Lips meet the filter, drawing a slow breath in before he exhales the smoke right —