[ Akira is inwardly going cross-eyed, unsure if he appreciates the effort or dreads this whole encounter. Why does fate hate him? Why does Goro hate him? It's quite obvious to him now, but there are too many people around them to seek confirmation and possibly lash out over what happened in Okumura's Palace.

There are so many counters he can throw especially now that he's at the peak of popularity and garners more fans (likewise haters) than Goro ever has. He relaxes, posture finally loosening up as he leans against the counter, and props his elbow on the surface, then his head on his gloved knuckles as he looks over to his companion. Lashes swept and smile sly, the ends of his lips curl deviously while his eyes glint under the dim lighting of Leblanc. ]

If I didn't know any better, I'd say you have a small crush on me. [ For once, he lets out a solid chuckle that rings in the coffee hinted air. It mirrors Goro's fake laugh, one polished to garnish any conversation and joke. ] But you're right—I'm not the type.

[ He casually shrugs with one shoulder. This life has given him more insight, but he never quite romanticized the detective's lifestyle or fame. He never quite sought fame like this, either. However, he's curious... ]

How have you been?

[ Is Goro enjoying himself? Despite the entanglements, he has freedom—he can have friends. He gets to be the hero. ]