Hey, you’re the one wanting a different dinner if Tom’s don’t pan out.

Tell y’what. You genuinely don’t like it? I’ll take ya’ to Embers.

Staple of any gonk who strolls into Watson. Cross my heart, I’m a merc’ of my word.

Not a one. Just hate to see a choom who’s never had Tom’s before.

— works. . . Still manage to catch some Z’s every so often. . . Just don’t feel right.”

“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 —

Meetcha there? Be a shame not to at least buy ya’ one.

Down in Watson. Tom’s Diner can set you up.

— continues speaking. “Still ‘preciate you comin’ to chill.”

— 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 —

“Eh, corny or not. Still hits true.” For a moment, he’s looking past her. Brows furrowing, a flicker of annoyance in his gaze yet it vanishes as he refocuses on her. “Still—, bein’ two people’s better than none. Believe it or not, gives me hope everything’s gonna —

“That matter choom—?” A soft exhale from the merc turned spectator. “Saw that fight first hand. Did good, can ya tell if anything’s broken?” A cloth is gently dabbed along her nose to mop up the dribble of blood.

— stand in the dark with this gonkbrain in downtown NC. so I’m thinkin’ you’re pretty nova as things go.”

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 —

🕷: Bet.

— ruinin’ the mood.” A soft laugh escapes, a quick inhale from his cigarette before its spat from his lips. Just so he could stomp the butt out under his shoe.

“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 —