Archive of Our Own ^beta

"Dude, is this Akechi's?" is what Ryuji says, too loud and too blunt, after finding a single fancy-looking glove at the bottom of Akira's bag instead of the video game case he hoped to find. He holds it up to his face to examine it, a strange mixture of regret and relief swirling in his gut. He chances a look up at Akira and nearly does a double take when he sees his expression.

"Please don't mess with that," Akira says, stony-faced and quiet. Ryuji gets it—it's a sensitive subject, even several months later. Best not to spend summer break bringing back old memories. He drops the glove back into Akira's bag without much fanfare. It lands on top of a jacket with its pocket outturned; Ryuji guesses it must've fallen out as he dug through the bag. The quiet of the room plus the isolation of the single glove makes him itch for a distraction. 

"Man... I kind of miss him, you know? Like, he was a real asshole, but I wish I could've been his friend," Ryuji sighs. "But I guess we'll never know now." 

Akira doesn't respond. Oh, well. Ryuji knows there must be some complicated emotions there. They were closest with Akechi, after all, but he did also try to murder Akira. It makes sense to not know what to think. Even now, at the tail end of summer break and half a year down the line, it must be complicated. Ryuji goes back to his search for the games and crows with delight when he finds it inside another pocket of the bag.

"Found the—" Ryuji's voice dies when he sees Akira's face, wet with tears and visibly distraught. He looks damn near heartbroken. As soon as Akira notices his eyes on him, their face shutters into something closed-off and he wipes at his eyes. Ryuji steps towards him hesitantly, like approaching an injured animal that needs help. "Hey man, are you okay?"

"Yeah. Sorry," Akira says. His voice is hoarse and shaky, nothing like the confident leader Ryuji knows so well. But he's only human, too. Ryuji drops down next to him on the bed and hunches over nearly as much as Akira is just to see his face.

"You don't have to be okay, dude, you know? It's okay to feel sad, or frustrated, or anything else you might be feeling. That's normal." He pauses, waits for a response Akira doesn't give. Ryuji sighs. He should've known it wouldn't be that easy to get through to them. "It's okay to miss him. I think all, or at least most of us, do. It's effed up, what happened to him. And, I mean, you two were pretty close, right? So it makes sense that you're still upset. You don't have to keep it all to yourself, dude. We're all here for you."

Ryuji nearly jumps out of his skin when, instead of a verbal response, Akira leans over into his side. It makes his heartbeat stutter and accelerate, like making up for a stumble at the start of a race by sprinting the rest of the way. He catches himself, though, and bites back his knee-jerk response to push him away and deny any need for affection. It's not him that needs this, right now, it's Akira. And he'd do anything for him.

Wrapping an arm around his shoulders, Ryuji pulls Akira closer and holds him tight. It's kind of eerie how quiet Akira is. If not for the little tremors Ryuji feels against himself, he might not even know they're upset.

"I do miss him," Akira admits softly, after a few minutes of nothing but an occasional hitched breath. From the watery sound of his voice, it's clear he's still crying. Something about it makes Ryuji's heart twist.

"That's cool, dude," Ryuji says, and then internally beats himself up for his total inability to say anything helpful. Akira must agree with his internal monologue, because they shake their head minutely against his chest.

"I was... I mean despite everything, I was always..." His voice catches and he takes a measured breath, self-soothing. "It's different. I'm still..."

"It's okay, man. I get it," Ryuji says, absolutely not getting it. But he squeezes Akira closer and rubs his shoulder and hopes it'll help and that he can't feel the rapid heartbeat pattering in Ryuji's chest.

They spend a while like that, with Akira crying silently against Ryuji. He never makes a sound more than the occasional hitching breath, and if it wasn't for the shaking of their shoulders and the growing damp patch Ryuji felt on his shirt, he probably wouldn't even know Akira's crying at all. That thought... kind of stings. If Akira doesn't even feel comfortable enough to cry properly, how can Ryuji even begin to help? But that's just how Akira is, Ryuji reasons. He's strong, he's silent, he's their stoic leader. No matter that the Metaverse is gone and that there isn't much to lead anymore.

"I wish I could've told him how I feel," Akira mumbles, and Ryuji nods along, rubs his back, and doesn't ask how you feel about what, exactly?

—

The first time he saw Akechi, Ryuji's gut reaction had been ugh, is this guy for real? His sickly sweet performance as the Detective Prince had been annoying at best, and Ryuji really never could stand the guy. 

When Akira decided to spend more and more time with him, Ryuji's reaction had been to ignore the strange twist in his stomach and to think sure, whatever. It was weird, but he couldn't tell why the idea of them hanging out ticked him off so much, just that it definitely did. So he missed his best friend! Sue him!

In the months Ryuji knew Akechi, before his death then resurrection then death again, he never liked him much. He thought he was snooty, a know-it-all, and overall kind of an asshole. Then Akechi betrayed them and attempted to murder Akira way too many times for comfort, and Ryuji really didn't get why Akira still seemed to want him around. And then, well, he died. Ryuji still can't quite rid himself of the guilt he carries from that day. 

So no, Ryuji can't say he likes Akechi much. He maybe likes him more now that he's dead, but that's mostly just retrospect, he assumes. Plus, he's not around to berate him anymore, so that's points in his favor.

But Akira likes Akechi, has liked him since the day they met. Ryuji asked once why they bothered spending any time with him, and Akira's eyes had lit up and they'd said simply that he was exciting. That had stung a bit, too—wasn't Ryuji exciting as well? 

But it wasn't like they were ignoring him in favor of Akechi, so he couldn't stay upset for long. Even if he never understood what Akira saw, or still sees, in him. Because it's clear Akira still thinks about him a lot. 

Even though he's known that for a while, the thought still doesn't fail to give Ryuji a pang of jealousy. It's stupid. Why is he jealous of a dead man because his best friend still mourns him? What kind of shitty friend does that make him?

I wish I could've told him how I feel, Akira had said. Ryuji kind of wishes he could've, too, just so he could have a little clarification of what that means. He misses him, but is that it? Ryuji knows mourning is complicated, but he feels like he's missing something. There's a piece here, something that will help clear up all the lingering discontent he's feeling despite everything, and Ryuji's overlooking it. But he'll figure it out.

—

Ann looks uncomfortable when he brings it up. They're getting breakfast after Ryuji's morning workout routine and an early photoshoot of Ann's before meeting with the rest of their friends later. It's not the first time they've talked about Akechi since his death (or even before it—Ryuji's big enough to admit he'd spent a fair amount of time bitching about him). Hell, it's not even the first time they've talked about Akechi specifically in relation to Akira, but somehow Ann still manages to look like she's figured something out that Ryuji hasn't. It's a little infuriating.

"I mean, he's got his glove, y'know? Somehow. And like, I know they were close, but I feel like that's not all there is to it. You get me?"

"I mean…" Ann fidgets nervously. She sounds tense, and Ryuji just wishes she would tell him what's making her so uncomfortable so he can put it together. Ann is supposed to be his dumb comrade in arms! Can't she take mercy on him and spell it out?

"He was… Really bummed when I brought him up the other day," Ryuji admits. He won't share all the details because he's a good friend and Akira deserves his trust, damnit, but he figures this much is safe to tell Ann. Ann nods solemnly.

"That makes sense, with how they felt about him," she says, and Ryuji groans.

"See, he said that too! He was like, I wish I could've told him how I feel, and I'm like, I think he knew that Akira was his friend, right? Like, Akechi had that whole nobody loves me thing going on, but Akira's wish from Maruki was for him to be okay. The guy wasn't so effin' dense he couldn't figure out they were friends, right?"

Ann stares at Ryuji intensely, and he gets the uncanny feeling he's said something wrong, even though he has no idea what. 

"How do you think Akira felt about Akechi?" Ann asks slowly. It's a little condescending, but Ryuji can't even bring himself to be annoyed when the question seems so obvious that it's confusing.

"Uh, they wanted to be his friend, right? And, like, he probably wanted to save him from all the shit he was going through." Ann stares hard at him as he answers, and Ryuji slumps, throwing his hands in the air. "I don't know what else there is to it! Like, maybe it would've been different if Akechi was a girl or somethin', but…"

Ryuji trails off. Ann sighs, a bit weary.

"Would it be?" she asks bafflingly. Then her phone lights up and she startles. "Oh, I've gotta run, sorry! I totally forgot I'm catching a movie with Shiho in a bit. I'll see you at Leblanc later!"

And just like that, she's gone. Ryuji feels like he has even more questions than when he first asked her.

—

"I mean, it would be different, right?" 

Yusuke hums thoughtfully in that way Ryuji always tries to interpret and never succeeds to. It's been a few days since his conversation with Ann and a few more since his glove discovery, and Ryuji's still trying to wrap his head around it. He's spent every hangout since then staring intently at Akira, but if anyone's noticed a change, they haven't said anything. 

Now, he's hanging out with Yusuke in hopes that maybe a guy's perspective is what he needs to make things clear. Ann's great and all, but maybe it's an issue only a dude will understand. Plus, the idea of asking Makoto about it is scary, Morgana is a cat and would also definitely just blab to Akira, and Ryuji doesn't really want to bring up Akechi to Haru or Futaba. Of course, hanging out with Yusuke turned into modeling for Yusuke, and Ryuji forgot to take into account how cryptic and weird the guy is.

"It would be!" Ryuji insists, taking Yusuke's non-answer as a denial. "'Cause like, if Akechi was a girl I totally would've thought the two of them were together, right? But Akechi was definitely a dude, so it's not that. So what is it?"

"I fail to see what Akechi's gender has to do with the matter. Hold still, please," Yusuke says without looking up from his canvas. Ryuji fights the urge to bounce his good leg in frustration.

"Dude, obviously because they're both guys. Or, well…" He thinks back to Akira's hand-wavy description of his own gender and cringes at himself. "I mean, basically? Sort of. So, like…"

His argument is falling flat, though. He can feel it. Ryuji drops his head, ignoring Yusuke's frustrated huff, and groans. 

"I don't get it, man. What is it that makes them so different?"

"Your guess is as good as mine, at this point. I am not sure what your argument is aside from gender, and we're both aware of Akira's disregard for the concept." Yusuke sounds vaguely annoyed, but his tone shifts as he continues, seemingly to himself. "Perhaps I could incorporate your movement into this piece… Yes, I can see it! A portrait of a man in duress." 

Ryuji tunes him out. He knows by now that once Yusuke starts on about art, he won't stop until Ryuji is well past lost and on his third daydream. And, well, he needs to think.

Akira wishes he could've told Akechi how he feels. Ryuji also doesn't know how Akira feels, but he knows that he and Akechi were close. All of their conversations seemed weirdly charged, and they usually left Ryuji feeling left out and a little butthurt. Honestly, they seemed kinda flirty a lot of the time, but that obviously couldn't be the case, because Akechi betrayed them and tried to murder Akira, and also both of them were guys (in the loosest definition of the term). Except, Akira doesn't really care that Akechi tried to murder them, and Akira doesn't really care about gender. 

Ryuji raises his head, staring at the wall ahead of him but not really seeing it. He feels the pieces slotting together in his head to finally form a one clear question: holy shit, is Akira in love with Akechi?

He voices as much, and Yusuke hums again. 

"That's what I've assumed, yes. I haven't spoken to him on the matter, but you know as well as I Akira's disregard of their own feelings." And then, to himself: "That expression is marvelous. Hold that right there."

"But—" Ryuji's head swims. His gut feels like it's twisting into knots. "Akechi tried to kill him! A bunch of times!"

"Water under the bridge, I presume. Akira never seems bothered by it."

That's true, at least. Akira took just about everything that happened during their time as a Phantom Thief in stride. But:

"Akechi is dead, though!"

"Yes, that would put a damper on any hopes of a relationship. Still, someone's death can hardly halt the feelings others have for them. In fact, mourning tends to exacerbate them. I've found as much to be true in my own life."

Ryuji's heart sinks. For once, Yusuke makes perfect sense. The thought that Akira is in love with Akechi—still! Present tense!—makes something inside Ryuji squirm unhappily. 

"Dude, it's just wrong," Ryuji whines. Yusuke looks up at him suddenly, sharp-eyed and focused.

"Is it?" he asks tightly, and an alarm goes off in Ryuji's head.

"Not because they're both guys or anything!" he backpedals, and Yusuke seems to relax. Huh. Weird. "It's just, Akira could do so much better than him, yeah?"

"Such as whom?" Yusuke prompts, and Ryuji stammers.

"I don't know, anyone!" He's practically shouting and knows it, but he's worked up enough that he can't even begin to regulate his volume. In his mind, he flips through an itinerary of their friends, and they all seem… Fine. Adequate. But they all sour Ryuji's stomach.

Yusuke hums again, infuriatingly. Ryuji stands up and heads for the door.

"Alright, I'm out of here. Whatever," he complains. Yusuke doesn't so much as look up.

"I'm done with your assistance regardless. Thank you for allowing me to portray such an intense emotional journey."

Ryuji rolls his eyes. The uncomfortable knot in his stomach tightens further. He wishes he could go for a run to clear his mind, but instead he settles for walking an extra few blocks before he catches the train.

—

Even if he was alive, someone like Akechi doesn't deserve someone like Akira. Sure, Akechi's pretty and all, but Akira's something else entirely. They're an attractive guy! And that's not even touching on his personality! People don't know to look for his personality, but they've got it in spades, and it's, like, the best! He deserves someone who sees that like Ryuji does.

—

The realization hits on his fourth nervous lap around his apartment building. Someone Akira deserves, someone worthy of being with him…

Holy shit, is Ryuji in love with Akira?

—

Ryuji doesn’t mention his realization to anyone, but he feels like everyone knows anyway. When he meets up with the Phantom Thieves in Leblanc the next day, he knows he’s acting weird, but he can’t help it. He keeps staring at Akira, which… maybe isn’t actually out of the ordinary, but now he’s all too aware of it. Every time he catches himself doing it, he forces himself to look away, but it’s always a split second too late—Akira always catches him. Behind his glasses, his expression is unreadable, but his gaze is always intense. It makes Ryuji feel like he’s been caught with his hand in the cookie jar, but he can’t stop himself from looking back. It’s a rush, the same adrenaline he used to get from running or from battling shadows. Akira’s just that magnetic. 

He walks home in a daze and realizes belatedly he has exactly zero clue what anyone talked about all day. Well. That would be tomorrow’s problem.

—

He texts Ann as soon as he gets home, right after greeting his mom with a kiss on the cheek and shuffling away to his room. He wanted to keep his newfound revelation secret at first, but realized quickly that was going to be impossible. And he definitely couldn’t tell Akira, so Ann was the next obvious choice.

From Ryuji Sakamoto [20:53]:

ann i am totally effed

She responds almost immediately, because she is a wonderful friend. Damn, Ryuji doesn’t appreciate her enough. He should take her for crepes soon as thanks.

From Ann Takamaki [20:54]:

What?? Are you okay?

From Ryuji Sakamoto [20:54]:

did you realize akira is in love with akechi???

From Ann Takamaki [20:55]:

What?

From Ann Takamaki [20:55]:

That’s what this is about? Jeez, you got me all worried!

From Ann Takamaki [20:55]:

But yeah, I kind of figured. I mean, after Akechi died they sort of seemed to act like I did after Shiho’s incident. I haven’t actually asked him about it, but I assumed as much. I’m surprised you just now picked up on it, lol

From Ryuji Sakamoto [20:56]:

you make it sound so obvious! it didn’t seem obvious to me!

From Ann Takamaki [20:56]:

Well, you’re you, so.

From Ryuji Sakamoto [20:56]:

hey! don’t be effin rude! it’s tough shit to figure out!

From Ann Takamaki [20:57]:

Lol sorry Ryuji!

From Ryuji Sakamoto [21:04]:

well if you’re such a romance guru did you know i’m in love with akira. since you just know this stuff

From Ann Takamaki [21:05]:

WHAT?

From Ann Takamaki [21:05]:

RYUJI PICK UP THE DAMN PHONE RIGHT NOW

He picks up the damn phone. Ann’s voice is immediately too-loud through the speakers, but Ryuji definitely has no room to complain about someone being loud, and also he did invite this, so. He brings his phone up to his ear and sighs.

“So, uh…”

“You’re in love with Akira?” Ann demands, and Ryuji cringes. He knows he’s the one who said it first, but hearing it repeated back is so much more intimidating.

“Geez, is it that unbelievable? He’s my best friend, ain’t he?”

“Yeah, but…” Ann pauses, clearly debating whether or not to say something. She must make her decision, because she says, “I didn’t know you were…”

She trails off, obviously unsure of what label to pin to Ryuji. That’s fair. He also doesn’t quite know what’s up with himself.

“Me neither, until yesterday?” Ryuji admits, though it comes out like a question. “But, uh, I guess I am. Because I’m pretty damn sure about this, at least.”

There’s a long pause before Ann answers, and Ryuji holds his breath for all of it. When she speaks, it’s careful, like talking to a spooked animal or an upset child.

“And you’re… cool with that realization?”

Ryuji ponders that. When he’s been confronted with it in the past, it’s been something to shy away from, to hide from and not look at directly. It’s always filled him with a sort of dread, like a dark hallway he needs to pass through. But now that it’s come to light, it’s less scary than he could’ve expected. It just sort of makes sense. 

“I think so? I mean, I just realized ‘cause I figured out he’s into Akechi, and I was like they totally deserve better than him, and then I realized maybe I wanted to be that.” Saying it out loud is embarrassing. He almost takes it back when he hears Ann snicker.

“Boys are so dumb,” she says, quiet like it’s just to herself. Ryuji bristles.

“You don’t gotta be rude about it,” he complains, and she laughs. 

“Sorry, Ryuji! It’s just very you. Which isn’t a bad thing! I was just surprised, that’s all. I’m glad you’re figuring yourself out!”

“Yeah, thanks…” Now that it’s out there, embarrassment floods in to fill the gaps his nervous energy left. He feels completely out of his depth. He almost hangs up before Ann speaks again.

“So what are you gonna do about it?”

And, huh. That’s enough to give him pause. What is he gonna do about it?

—

Three days later and he’s finally alone with Akira.

Or, well, he wasn’t actively trying to get them alone with him, but when he woke up to a text— Still up for that Crush Bros rematch? —he couldn’t exactly say no, now could he? Which is how he finds himself against his side on the couch, yelling at his character to move better as Akira wipes the floor with him. Again. It’s clear playing against Futaba has taught him some tips and tricks. 

At the end of their fifth round, Ryuji drops his controller and flops back against the couch. Akira sets his down neatly on the floor next to the couch and leans back as well, silent and watchful. Ryuji doubts he’s ever felt so seen.

Without meaning to, his eyes flick down to Akira’s mouth for just a moment. It curls up in the corner, and Ryuji knows he’s been caught. He looks back up to meet Akira’s eyes in a panic and finds them full of mischief. It’s a look he hasn’t seen too many times outside of palaces, and it makes Ryuji’s heart swoop. 

“Akira…” Ryuji begins, and trails off. He doesn’t know where he’s going with it, but Akira just grins.

“Ryuji,” he says, no hesitation. Ryuji leans forward minutely enough that he’s sure he could probably brush it off as a coincidence if he was misreading signs, but Akira matches him and doubles the movement. Their hand lands steadily on Ryuji’s cheek, cupping it gently. Ryuji can't do anything but lean into it.

"Hey, so are you also—" is all Ryuji manages before Akira kisses him, soft and firm. It's like a fuse blowing a circuit in Ryuji's mind, and for a brief moment he can't think of anything else. He kisses Akira back hard and biting and relishes the way he can feel Akira smile against him. 

It's not like fireworks, not really. It’s too grounded in reality. But it doesn't need to be—he could never complain about the feeling of Akira's lips on his. They're soft and taste faintly like his chapstick, and they slide against Ryuji's like it's what they're made for. Seriously, he could die happy.

He isn't sure how long they stay like that, lips and tongues and teeth against each other, but it's easy to get lost in. At some point, they press even closer together. Akira's back is quivering just slightly with unsteady breaths  under Ryuji's hand, so it's only natural he mimics Akira's earlier position eventually and reaches up to cradle his face—

The dampness under his palm startles Ryuji into backing up. His ego swells just a bit from the way Akira chases after his mouth, but as soon as it becomes obvious he's done, Akira frowns and opens his eyes. His face is splotchy and tear-stained, but he stares at Ryuji firmly. His expression is in the impossible middle ground between defiance and apologism, waiting for Ryuji's response to see how to react. It makes his heart drop.

"Dude, Akira, we can't do this," Ryuji says, the words like barbed wire. Akira's frown deepens.

"It's fine. I was just overwhelmed." As if clearing the evidence will help his case, Akira scrubs their face dry and stares Ryuji down. As much as Ryuji would like to continue, though…

"It's not right. I'm sorry, man, but you're crying and it's really not a great look, y'know? Like, geez, way to make a guy feel bad about himself," Ryuji tries to half-joke. Gauging by Akira's expression, it doesn't land. He sighs and tries again. "Listen, I know you aren't over Akechi. Can't say I necessarily understand it, but I get your feelings. I'm not gonna ask you to ignore that just for me."

The bitter look on Akira's face slips into something surprised and vulnerable. They blink at Ryuji a couple times before their face collapses again, and Ryuji's there to catch him as he slumps forward. He’s not crying, but he may as well be.

"I'm sorry," Akira utters, quiet against Ryuji's chest. The words fall against his heart and promptly shatter it. "I wish I could be more for you. I'm so sorry."

"Akira, man, you don't have to say that shit. It's okay if you're not ready, or if you're plain old not interested. It would be shitty of me to get mad at you for that."

Akira’s breath hitches, and he slumps more fully against Ryuji. Their posture screams defeat.

"We were never even together, not like this. And I do like you. But I can't just forget him and move on. I can't."

Akira's voice somehow manages to sound firm despite its shake. Ryuji squeezes him tighter.

"I'm not askin' you to, bro. Promise." Because as much as Ryuji thinks Akira could do better than the ghost of a murderer, and wishes maybe he could be given a shot, he respects Akira's feelings. It doesn't take a genius to know he feels things deeply, and asking him to forget his love for someone he couldn't save would be flat-out cruel. Ryuji will support them, above all else.

For the second time in as many weeks, Akira lets his mask slip, safe in Ryuji's arms. It's a strange habit to be forming, but Ryuji hopes it's helping at least. Before, he hadn't seen Akira cry once. He guesses maybe he just wasn't paying close enough attention.

"Sorry," Akira says again when he finally pulls away. He sits up tall, like Ryuji might forget the whole thing if they just look brave enough. But their eyes are dry, so maybe it’s not unfair. "That was—kind of stupid, huh?"

He looks embarrassed, and still just as sad, though it's covered by a self-deprecating half-smile. It makes Ryuji's heart ache. 

"No way, dude. It's cool to feel your feelings. I'm not gonna judge that." And then, because it's important, he adds, "You're my best friend in the whole world, Akira. I'm not gonna get mad at you over something like this. I just want you to be happy."

"You're my best friend, too," they say, and their smile finally starts to meet their eyes. Ryuji grins at him and picks up the controller he dropped earlier.

"Another round?" he asks, and ignores the heartache in his chest in favor of watching Akira's smile as he wins. It'll be okay. He'll move forward. 

—

Moving forward, apparently, begins the very next day. Ryuji has been so caught up in… everything that he had managed to forget until he woke up to excited texts from the group chat asking where to meet for breakfast before their group shopping trip to Harajuku, and then it was a mad dash to Leblanc before he was late enough to get shit for his tardiness. Of course, Futaba gave him shit anyway, regardless of Ann walking in ten minutes behind him and immediately pulling the whole group outside.

Now, inside the third clothing store of the day, Ryuji's wondering if he should've made some sort of excuse to stay behind. When she's not busy cooing over a blouse or chiding a skirt for its lack of pockets, Ann's shooting him extremely obvious looks, sometimes with an exaggerated nod towards Akira. And every time he looks at Akira, he's filled with a conglomeration of emotions, most of which are negative, that he really doesn't want to deal with. Ryuji wishes he could so much as glance at his best friend without feeling the hurt-sadness-jealousy-love-affection-insecurity that threatens to spill over at any inopportune moment, but he's not so opportunist to hope for that letting up anytime soon. He's always been a deeply emotional person, whether or not he wants to be, and he knows his best course of action is just to ride it out.

And then there's Akira. Every time Ryuji catches his eye, it's the most intense eye contact he's ever experienced. Everything he's feeling is clear in his gaze, and unlike Ryuji, he doesn't seem to want to back away from it all. There's a mix of regret, sadness, and acceptance on their face, and every time their eyes meet, he holds the stare until Ryuji has to look away. It's more than a little mortifying.

He wants to be upset with Akira. It would make everything easier, at least on some surface level. If Ryuji could pin his hurt on some wrongdoing, maybe he could just let it all out and then be done with it. And he is, a little bit, despite knowing that it's petty and he has no room to be. It stings to know that even if it's subconscious, Akira's picked the guy who betrayed them over his best friend, but Ryuji knows that's unfair even as he feels it. But more than that, he's just—sad. Sad for Akira, that he's apparently holding all this hurt inside himself, and sad that he can't be the one to relieve it. 

But he can't be mad at them for it, as much as it might make it easier, because he understands Akira as well as they understand him. 'Cause they really do understand each other! Which means Ryuji knows that if Akira could handle it, he'd definitely take everything Ryuji could give him and give his own right back. Hell, he tried to before Ryuji pushed them away, but that's all the more proof backing off was for the better. If there's one thing Ryuji definitely doesn't want to do, it's add another burden onto Akira's back.

Still, it stings, and Ryuji's sure he's not quite acting natural. But he'll give it his best shot.

—

The rest of the summer is tinged with awkwardness, despite Ryuji's best attempts at normalcy. Ann gives both of them pitying looks for a week once he tells her what happens, sparing some of the details in hopes of keeping Akira's dignity intact. And although Akira's acting completely normal, there's no way for Ryuji to follow their lead perfectly. They’ve always been a better actor than him, anyway. He wasn't lying when he said he just wanted what was best for them, but the rejection stings regardless. He'll move on, though. It helps that Akira was so honest with him. 

The rest of the Phantom Thieves clearly notice something is strange, but no one says anything. It's probably for the better. They hang out almost exclusively as a group, and the intensity of every interaction is multiplied tenfold. It's like the finale of a firework show—summer break's end approaches quickly, and they're all high energy in anticipation. It's been nice, being back together. Even after just a semester apart, things have been strange, like something's missing. One break together won't be enough to fill the gap, but it helps already.

But then summer ends, and everyone ships themselves back home. Ryuji’s not far away—the school he transferred to while focusing on physical therapy is still in Tokyo, and close enough to Shibuya and Yongen-Jaya that the daily train ride to see his friends wasn’t a big deal. The others, though, aren’t so lucky. Ann has to catch a flight so early that most of them decide just to stay up all night to see her off, which leaves them all dead on their feet by the time Akira and Makoto are both due at the train station midday. They still manage to make a fuss, though, loud and excited enough to draw the attention of all the other passengers.

When it’s time to say goodbye, Akira grips Ryuji in a sturdy hug and squeezes him tight. Never one to half-ass friendship, Ryuji clutches him just as hard and takes an admittedly shaky breath. Akira pulls away after a long minute and shoots him a grin. If it’s a little watery, well, Ryuji won’t say anything. He’s sure his matches.

“Promise you won’t forget me?” Akira jokes, but Ryuji hears a bit of truth in it. He scoffs and rolls his eyes.

“Dude, impossible. You’re my best friend, remember? If anything, I should ask you that.”

“Never,” Akira says, and it’s—soft. Soft enough to hurt, like an old bruise. Even now, Akira looks apologetic. At a loss for words and being quickly swallowed by embarrassment, Ryuji claps him on the shoulder and shoves him away with too-loud jeers that he'll miss his train. As he watches Akira wave back at the group, Morgana squirming in his bag, Ryuji can’t help but feel like maybe that was the end of the story. If nothing else, the chapter is over. And so he picks himself up, dusts himself off, and decides to start the next page on the right foot.

—

The thing is, though: school is boring, especially without his friends. Ryuji makes a few new acquaintances, and he texts the Phantom Thieves near-constantly, but it isn’t the same. Even at the start of his second semester at his new school, Ryuji can’t help but feel a little like a sore thumb sticking out. The school isn’t exclusively for physical therapy patients, and since the novelty of transferring to a new school wore off in the first semester, Ryuji just finds himself missing his friends from Shujin. 

But it’s fine! They text, they call, they keep each other updated. Even if the updates are much more mundane than they were mere months ago, and it kind of leaves him feeling a little like something’s missing beyond just his friends. He aches for something interesting, beyond just grocery store runs at his mom’s request and the never ending homework-P.T.-school cycle he finds himself in.

He wishes for something, anything, from the past year to come back. Anything to break up the monotony.

—

"Akechi?" Ryuji exclaims, far too loudly for the otherwise quiet grocery store. Sure enough, Akechi freezes like a frightened deer in the headlights, an expression so foreign on a face which always seems harsh in Ryuji's memories. His hair is shorter now and choppy like he hacked at it with a pair of scissors and his own hands. He looks like he's calculating the nearest escape route and weighing the odds of bolting to it against strangling Ryuji then and there. But he doesn't like running from fights, and besides, just how much harm could he do in a produce aisle?

"This didn't happen," Akechi hisses, just as dramatic as Ryuji remembers. He begins a valiant attempt at storming off, but Ryuji catches his arm—notes its strange thinness—and holds him in place. 

"Dude, no way am I letting you get away with that! Are you shitting me?" 

Akechi glares at him, calculating in a way that makes Ryuji immediately uncomfortable. He seems to find the answer to something because he sighs like he's resigning himself to a death sentence, closing his eyes with a subtle frown. He doesn't try to pull away, doesn't struggle at all. It's almost enough to make Ryuji doubt whether he has the right guy.

"I assume you'd like revenge. I don't have much money, but if you'd like to kill me, I can't say I don't understand. I imagine I'd want as much in your position," Akechi says, calm like they aren't discussing murder in between the green onions and the spinach. Ryuji can't help himself—he balks and drops his arm.

"What the hell? What kind of guy do you think I am?" Ryuji demands, and Akechi scoffs. God, Ryuji thinks, this guy is frustrating. "We thought you were dead, dude. I just want to talk."

"I'm sure your merry band of thieves would've preferred it that way. Sorry to disappoint."

Akechi turns on his heel to walk away, and Ryuji could just about scream. Instead, he weighs his options carefully—a rare occasion, but a necessary precaution, he's sure—and spits his words at Akechi's back.

"Why are you so convinced we want you dead? We missed you, asshole. Especially Akira! The guy's still torn up about it half a year later!"

Akechi freezes and visibly tenses. Ryuji's not sure whether he just effed everything up irrevocably or won him over.

"Why would any of you miss me, after everything I've done?" he asks, but his voice lacks venom. Score. "I killed two of your friends' parents in cold blood. I tried to kill Akira more than once. How could you possibly want me around? How could he?"

"Simple, 'cause you're his friend. I don't think any of us really blame you all that much for what happened. We blame the shitty adults that made you do it. I'll be honest, dude, I don't really like you—" That's shocking enough to make Akechi spin around, a strange mix of emotions on his face. "—but that doesn't mean I don't wanna be friends."

A laugh forces its way out of Akechi's throat like it surprises him. It's choked, staccato, and then it builds until he's somewhere between cackling and wheezing. Ryuji looks around and waves a hand at the other patrons of this grocery store: a handful of people who are staring with expressions of disgust, annoyance, and concern. No worries, everyone! Just two old friends catching up! Nothing to see here!

"Are you all so incorrigibly forgiving?" Akechi wheezes, and Ryuji fights not to roll his eyes. 

"Uh, yeah, dude, clearly. Akira most of all, you know that." That seems to sober Akechi, so he continues. "He misses you, man. Still! I don't even know what he'd do if he saw you again right now!"

"He is so…" Akechi mutters, and then trails off. Ryuji decides to risk stepping towards him and clapping him on the shoulder. It's stick thin—has it always been like that?

"Come on, I'll text him right now. He's back in his hometown now, but I'm sure he wants to know."

Ryuji fumbles to get his phone out of his pocket, and then it's Akechi's turn to grip his wrist. His hand shakes where his fingers press into his arm, and he looks frightened. Ryuji pauses.

"You can't," Akechi says desperately. "I can't see him again, not like this."

"Are you for real? I'm not just gonna let you disappear again without a word! What kind of friend would that make me?"

"What kind of friend indeed," Akechi mutters. Ryuji doesn't stop his eyes from rolling this time and feels immensely satisfied when Akechi looks offended. That's on him—he should expect his dramatics won't be taken seriously by now.

"Okay, I'll tell you what. Akira won't be back in Tokyo again until winter break in December, so something like two and a half months from now. I won't tell them yet 'cause I know they're trying to focus on getting into college this semester and this is just about the biggest distraction ever, but when he comes back you two are definitely seeing each other." Akechi turns his head to avoid his gaze, so Ryuji steps back into his line of sight. He's a good friend, so he's not letting this go. Akira deserves as much. "Dude, come on. I'm not taking no for an answer."

"I'm not at a place right now where that would be a good idea," Akechi admits stiffly. Ryuji shrugs.

"It's September. We can get you to that place by December, I'm sure of it! C'mon, no one expects you to be perfect. You know they'll be happy to see you as is."

Akechi scans his face again like he's looking for holes in his argument. It's kind of weird, actually, how similar it looks when Akira does that same thing. The two of them don't seem to be much alike, but maybe Ryuji hadn't realized that they aren't too different, either.

"Fine," Akechi says, and lets go of his wrist. Ryuji grins. 

"Alright! First thing, gimme your phone number. I deleted your contact forever ago."

—

"So, uh, what brings you to Minato?" Ryuji asks between gulps of noodles. In the days since his chance encounter with Akechi, they'd planned to meet at Ryuji's favorite ramen shop in the area. It’s partially so they’re on neutral ground while they talk, and partially an excuse to gorge himself on delicious food.

Texting Akechi, Ryuji is quickly learning, is awkward and stilted. He alternates between being occasionally uncomfortably pleasant, downright bitchy, and just plain tired, though he thinks it's probably safe to assume the latter is the truest option. But despite the awkwardness, they'd managed to come up with a plan. Now, sitting across the table from each other in a back-corner booth, they've done little more than exchange greetings. 

"There are… several good physical therapists in the area," Akechi admits slowly. Ryuji does a double take.

"For real?" At Akechi's glare, he raises his hands placatingly. "Sorry, dude. It's just, that's why I'm here too! I thought about just commuting here, since it's so close to Shibuya and all, but my mom and I decided it would be easier to just move over here. But, uh, what do you need PT for?"

"I'm sure Kurusu told you he assumed I was dead outside of Maruki's reality." Ryuji nods. It's not an answer, but he can tell there's a story there. "That wasn't actually an attempt to mislead him on my part. Inside Maruki's reality, I couldn't remember anything between our fight in Shido's palace and Christmas." 

Akechi sneers at the mention of Shido, and Ryuji doesn't blame him. Learning that scumbag was Akechi's father definitely changed how he viewed him. Views, now, present tense. Ryuji is no stranger to shitty dads, after all. If he imagines how he might've turned out if his mom was gone, too… Well, he likes to hope he definitely wouldn't have defaulted to murder, but he can't hate Akechi for what he's done, not really. Besides, the memory of Shido's palace still makes his leg ache with phantom pains, remembering his desperate sprint to the life raft. 

Ryuji shakes his head to clear the memory. It's not important right now, not really.

"So… You had amnesia or something?" he asks, and knows immediately he's off base thanks to Akechi's exaggerated eye roll. He begins to explain and Ryuji's stomach drops. 

"I was comatose from that fight until the beginning of February. It resulted in severe muscle deterioration and weight loss, so I've been attending physical therapy for months since then. Initially, I was staying in the hospital where I was treated while in the coma, but after a couple months I transferred my care to a facility nearby and rented a new apartment within walking distance." A thoughtful look crosses his face suddenly, and he cocks his head. "Although, I can't say I remember how I managed to escape Shido's palace or how I ended up in the hospital, so I suppose your amnesia theory might not be entirely off base."

"Shit, Akechi, I had no idea," Ryuji mutters. Akechi looks vaguely annoyed again.

"Why would you? There's no way you could have known. All signs pointed to me being dead. It was as much a surprise for me as it was for anyone else when I woke up." 

"Still…" Ryuji trails off. It's still a little frightening, seeing the real-world impacts of the Metaverse. Stealing hearts was one thing, but being able to see evidence of injury clear in Akechi's gaunt face was another beast entirely. 

"You're here for…?" Akechi probes, once the silence has gone on just long enough to become awkward. Ryuji brightens at being asked a question, and then quickly sours as he realizes what it is.

"Oh, my leg. It hasn't been the same since Kamoshida effed it up. I really miss running, though, and it's what I was always best at, so I'm hoping I can fix it up. Crazy coincidence that we ended up in the same place, though, huh?"

"I suppose it is," Akechi says, and then turns back to his ramen. He looks a little less uncomfortable than he did a few minutes before, so Ryuji decides to chalk it up to a win and eat his own food, too.

—

Ryuji discovers quickly that Akechi's already changed a good deal. He learns he attends therapy twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays after P.T., and that he spends the rest of his time studying. He's still just as rude as Ryuji remembers him being within Maruki's reality, but his snark isn't malicious like it once was. He never responds to Ryuji's texts before 9 in the morning, and usually not until noon on weekends. Just a few weeks into their arrangement, and they've already fallen into a routine. Mondays and Fridays, they get dinner and just… talk. It's still extremely effing weird, but it's a routine nonetheless.

At first, Ryuji rarely mentioned the other Phantom Thieves. Depending on who it was, Akechi reacted differently, but it was always with a frown. And, like, of course it's funny to rile him up, but Ryuji is making an effort, okay? It's all for Akira's sake. More than anything, he wants them to be happy, and if the way he manages to help is by putting up with Akechi's shit, so be it.

That changes the Friday two weeks after their grocery store encounter. They're at dinner again, chatting idly about classes and physical therapy and nothing consequential, when Ryuji's phone rings. Akechi goes quiet, but gives Ryuji a go-ahead gesture, so he picks it up without glancing at the caller ID.

"Hey! I hope this isn't a bad time," Ann greets him, and Ryuji grins.

"Nah, not a bad time. I'm just at dinner with…" He pauses to glance at Akechi. He's looking away, utterly unhelpful, so Ryuji just clears his throat and makes something up. "Someone from school. What's up?"

"Ooh, is it a date?" Ann asks. Ryuji snorts, and clearly Akechi hears her, because he turns back lightning-quick to glare at him.

"Definitely not a date. I've got higher standards than that." 

He makes the quip just to watch the barely-contained rage flicker across Akechi's face, but regrets it as soon as he feels a sharp kick to his leg. As he hisses in pain, he notices a sort of mirthless amusement on Akechi's face, and he's grateful that at least the kick was aimed for his good leg. Over the line, Ann laughs at him.

"Be nice! I bet whoever you're with doesn't want to hear that!" Yeah, no kidding. Akechi turns away again, but it loses some potency now that Ryuji knows he's listening. Whatever. "Anyways, I was wondering if you have any ideas for Akira's birthday? Obviously we're all spread out, so it's not like we can hang out, but I still want to send him a gift! Do you know what they'd want?"

"Uh…" Ryuji trails off, and tries not to stare too obviously at Akechi. But that's for a later time, and besides, a person's a kind of shitty gift. He racks his mind for what else Akira might want, but to be honest, he definitely forgot to ask. "I dunno, clothes? He's hinted a bunch about wanting to dress up or wear girly clothes or something, and you're a girl and all, so maybe you could help with that."

"Amazing insight, Ryuji," Ann says. She sounds mildly annoyed, but then audibly brightens. "Still, that's not a bad idea! Maybe I should just ask him about that. I could try to fish it out without saying it directly."

Knowing Ann's acting skills, they'd definitely figure it out. Regardless, Ryuji encourages her to check and makes a mental note to ask as well. They chat for a few more minutes, but it's not long before they're exchanging goodbyes and hanging up.

"Sorry about that," Ryuji apologizes when Akechi finally turns back to him. Akechi looks pensive even as he shrugs the apology off. He's got the strange urge to justify himself, so he explains, "Akira's birthday is in a couple weeks, so we're trying to figure out what to do for it. He's off in the country in his hometown this year, but we don't want him to feel alone, you know? I mean, Morgana's there too, but…"

"I see," Akechi says. He's clearly got something on his mind, but Ryuji doesn't really feel like pushing him to figure out what it is. He's never had the tolerance for his B.S. that Akira's got.

"I just gotta figure out what to get, you know? Nothing too pricey, 'cause I've got, like, limited funds, but something nice. Something Akira's gonna like."

"...Might I be able to pitch in?" Akechi asks. He sounds strained, and Ryuji would make fun of him for sounding constipated if he wasn't busy reshaping his world view.

"For real? You want to do that?"

"If you'd like to get them something a bit more expensive, I think I'd appreciate the opportunity to contribute. Even if my name isn't attached to it, it would be… nice, to give Akira something worthwhile."

Ryuji must stare open-mouthed for too long, because Akechi's eye twitches and he looks away again, somewhere between annoyed and bashful.

"Well? Do you want to accept my offer, or will you just sit around catching flies?"

Ryuji snaps his mouth shut with a twinge of irritation. Still, Akechi sounds genuine even if he seems like he's forcing the words out. Actually, it's kind of funny.

"Hell yeah, dude, I'll take you up on it! Once you reveal yourself, though, I'm definitely telling Akira you helped out."

"Whatever. I'm not fishing for compliments, I'm simply— It doesn't matter." Oh, he's embarrassed. Ryuji is thrilled. But, more pressingly, thanks to Akechi's dismissal and convenient phrasing, he now has the perfect idea.

—

Come Monday, though, Ryuji is absolutely swamped with homework. After asking his mom's approval and receiving an affectionate kiss on the forehead for his efforts, which he grumbles about and scrubs off even though they both know it's just for show, he shoots Akechi a text.

From Ryuji Sakamoto [15:07]:

hey dude, i've got a shit ton of homework, i can't go out to dinner tonight. want to come to my apartment instead? my mom said she can make food for three.

It takes over an hour for Akechi to respond. Ryuji's sure he's fucked everything up and is in the middle of figuring out how to explain the mess he’s made to Akira when his phone chimes with a text.

From: Goro Akechi [16:31]:

Okay.

From: Goro Akechi [16:32]:

Send me your address and when to arrive.

He's not sure why, entirely, but to Ryuji it feels like a victory. He cheers, tells his mom that for sure yes, they'll have a guest, and then makes the executive decision not to clean his room. If Akechi doesn't want to see his dirty socks and textbooks lying around, maybe he should've considered not betraying them and trying to murder Akira. It only seems fair.

A couple hours later, just as his mom is taking the skillet off the stove, there's a knock at the door. Ryuji pushes himself up from where he's sprawled himself across the couch during a halfhearted attempt at studying and opens it to find Akechi, looking uncomfortable and out of place but present despite it all. Even though he'd agreed, Ryuji's a little surprised to see him there. Still, he ushers him inside and tries not to notice how insanely tense Akechi is as the two of them head into the kitchen to eat. 

The table's already set, and one of the spare chairs his mom brings out when she has friends over is placed in an empty spot. As they enter, his mom turns and smiles at the two of them. 

"You must be Akechi-kun, then. It's good to meet you. I'm Yuki Sakamoto." 

Akechi bows, and it startles Ryuji so badly that he has to stop himself from jumping. But there's something strangely sad in Akechi's voice when he introduces himself. 

"Thank you for having me, Sakamoto-san. I appreciate it."

"Dude, the hell are you being so polite for?" Ryuji asks, and then finds himself on the receiving end of two simultaneous dirty looks. "I'm just saying, that's totally not you! It's effing weird!"

"Forgive me for trying to leave a good impression," Akechi drawls, voice acidic. He still looks tense, but he relaxes minutely when his mom chuckles.

"Well, there's no need for pretenses. I won't say I don't appreciate the effort, though." She gestures toward the table with her wooden spoon. "Why don't you two sit? This will be done in just a moment."

Ryuji takes his normal spot, and Akechi follows him slowly to occupy the additional seat. He glances at the table with something calculating in his gaze. Seemingly making up his mind, he speaks up just as Ryuji's mom sets the first dish on the table.

"So I take it it's just the two of you, then?" His voice sounds casual, and if Ryuji hadn't seen him before while not attempting to be polite, he might actually believe he isn't just fishing for information to level the playing field. Still, Ryuji decides to throw him a bone.

"Yeah, it's just us. Dad's a piece of shit, though, so it's better this way."

"Ryuji!" his mom scolds. She sets down the last dish and takes a seat with a weary sigh. "Yes, we've been alone for a bit now. Ryuji's father left a few years ago, and I can't say it wasn't a welcome change. But, please, don't worry about our family. Eat."

"It's quite alright, Sakamoto-san. I'm no stranger to piece of shit fathers," Akechi says, and his smile is halfway to a snarl. Still, he seems to relax somewhat, and takes the opportunity to fill his plate.

"Do you live with your mother, then?" his mom asks, and Ryuji cringes. He doesn't know much about Akechi's past, but it's hard to forget him screaming about being an unwanted child in that engine room. Before he can attempt to change the topic, though, Akechi shakes his head sadly.

"My mother died when I was quite young. I live alone, actually." He sounds genuinely remorseful, and Ryuji is overwhelmingly uncomfortable. Akechi's the one who brought the topic up, but…

"I'm very sorry to hear that. You're always welcome in our home," his mom says, and she places her hand on top of one of Akechi's. He freezes in surprise, shock written clear across his face, and doesn't move until she pulls her hand away. Ryuji kind of expects him to flip out, but instead, Akechi just smiles at her, small and sad but genuine.

"Thank you. It's much appreciated. And thank you for the food." 

The rest of dinner is kind of tense, but not in a bad way. Akechi seems oddly melancholy, though Ryuji reasons it makes sense, knowing what he does. And once they're done eating, he insists on helping with the dishes, even as Ryuji himself is shooed back to his homework. 

After a few minutes, Akechi joins him on the couch and peers at his homework. He snorts at the small portion he has completed.

"Really? You're so stumped by simple history questions? I'm disappointed, Sakamoto, truly."

"Hey! It's not my fault, this shit's hard to remember. You're welcome to help if you're so good at it."

"Oh, no. I intend to watch you struggle to figure it out on your own. I imagine that will be much more entertaining."

"Dude, you're an asshole, " Ryuji grumbles. 

"I'm sorry, were you under the impression that I was kind?" Akechi says, biting but not malicious. Ryuji shakes his head. Definitely not. After a few moments, though, Akechi points at the page. "Here, you've got this wrong. The Tale of Genji was written during the Heian period, not the Kamakura period. You're off by about a century."

"Oh, for real?" Ryuji mutters, but he erases the answer and writes the correction in. Akechi makes a satisfied hum and points to the next question.

They go on like that for a while, and Ryuji is… actually extremely grateful for his company. He's not good at school, period, but he's always been ass at anything that just requires memorizing facts. But with Akechi's help, it goes more smoothly and quickly than ever before.

"You're not just telling me the wrong answers so I'll fail, are you?" Ryuji asks, though he's only, like, 15% serious. Akechi rolls his eyes.

"What could I possibly gain from that?" he responds, but it's not a denial. Still, it's probably as good as he'll get.

"Well, whatever. Thanks, man!" Ryuji grins at him, and Akechi clearly doesn't know how to react. It's kind of funny, actually. 

"...I suppose I should take my leave," he says awkwardly, but Ryuji waves him off.

"Nah, dude, hold on a minute. I wanna show you what I'm getting for Akira, since you're pitching in and all!"

He pulls out his phone and scrolls through the tabs on his browser before he finds what he's looking for. Victorious, he holds the device out to display it to Akechi, who doesn't seem impressed. If anything, he seems kind of confused.

"A… fishing rod?"

"And a whole lure box! If we get an actual good one instead of some cheap-o one, it'll last them way longer!"

"I see," Akechi says, but he's still clearly a little confused. "And you think he would want this?"

"Uh, yeah, obviously. Remember that time we all fished for that lady's ring? He had such a good time! And I'm pretty sure he said his hometown is right by a lake, so it's perfect!"

"I suppose you're right." Akechi looks a little surprised, but he shrugs and nods. "Alright, if you think it's a good idea, I'll cover half of it."

"Whoa, half?" Ryuji balks, but Akechi doesn't seem phased. He kind of assumed that without his name attached, he wouldn't do much, but half… "Shit, dude, thanks! It's way more affordable now!"

"Well, yes, that is the point," Akechi says like he's pointing out the obvious. Ryuji just grins at him and knocks his shoulder.

"Heh, maybe you're nice after all!"

Akechi frowns but doesn't reply. Ryuji's not sure whether to count it as a win or not. 

He clears out soon after, and then it's just Ryuji and his mom, as usual. He shows her his completed assignments proudly and she ruffles his hair affectionately.

"That was nice of Akechi-kun to help you. Be sure to thank him," she says. Ryuji groans even as he leans back into her.

"I know, geez! I already thanked him and everything."

She hums affirmatively and wraps an arm around Ryuji's shoulders to lightly squeeze him. He melts into her hold easily; even though he's taller than her now, he's come to realize there's nothing quite like a hug from his mom.

"He's an interesting boy. You're friends?" she asks, and Ryuji shrugs.

"Not really. We were involved in some shit together a year ago, and he really screwed some stuff up bad, but he's trying to get better now. Akira really misses him, so I'm trying to help out where I can so that Akechi won't totally eff everything up when the two of them meet up again."

"Does Akira know you're doing this?" Ryuji shakes his head, and she chuckles. "Well, they'll certainly be surprised. That's very kind of you, Ryuji. Still, I wonder about him. I hope he comes over again. It seems it's been a while since he's had a motherly presence in his life, and if he's also without a father, that's all the more reason to. A boy so young shouldn't be alone."

"He's 19, he's not that young," Ryuji grumbles, but his mom just laughs. Still, he makes a commitment in his mind to drag Akechi over more often. If his mom wants him around, he'll bring him around.

—

But maybe Ryuji has too much confidence in Akechi, because the next time they’re supposed to meet for dinner, Akechi doesn’t show up. He’s always early enough to rub it in Ryuji’s face when he runs into the restaurant consistently no less than five minutes late, but this time, he isn’t there. Ryuji calls his mom to make sure they didn’t get it mixed up, that he didn’t end up at the apartment when Ryuji went to their usual restaurant, but she confirms he isn’t there. He waits around for a full effin’ hour before he gives up and calls it a night.

He shoots Akechi a text asking what’s up, but he doesn’t hear back. Honestly, it’s pretty irritating. He goes home with a stomach empty of everything but a building resentment.

Come the next morning, Ryuji still hasn’t heard back from Akechi, and he’s starting to feel genuinely pissed. Like, he’s been starting to enjoy spending time with him, but it’s not like they’re best bros or anything. Honestly, Ryuji’d appreciate a sign of life or a simple sorry, I got caught up with something. It’s a dick move to leave him sitting around waiting for an answer.

…Although, knowing Akechi, calling it a sign of life might not be too far off-base. 

Accepting defeat, Ryuji sends Futaba a text. He doesn’t have Akechi’s address, but he’s pretty sure she can figure him out. Whether he’s in trouble or just being a dick, Ryuji’s gonna find out.

From: Futaba Sakura [13:04]:

yeah i can def find a location from a phone #. probably not super specific, like i couldn’t get an exact apartment, but i can dig up the building easy

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [13:06]:

thanks, futaba. appreciate it!

It takes a little while for her to respond, but when she does, it’s with an address nearby. He thanks her, and is about to head out when his phone lights up with another text.

From: Futaba Sakura [13:39]:

but hey ryuji

From: Futaba Sakura [13:39]:

is that phone number actually…??

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [13:41]:

yeah it’s him. don’t tell anyone? i’m figuring this shit out ok on my own. i’ll tell akira soon enough

From: Futaba Sakura [13:44]:

…if you say so ᕙ(⇀‸↼‶)ᕗ

Armed with the knowledge of Akechi’s address and that Futaba’s found out he’s alive, Ryuji heads toward Akechi’s apartment. It’s only about a ten minute walk, which is nice, but the time only gives him more time to think. What if something really did happen? What if some of Shido’s old cronies tracked him down, or something else equally ridiculous and dangerous?

He’s convinced himself so thoroughly that when he marches up to the first door he sees and knocks hard enough to echo, he forgets that Futaba didn’t give him a specific apartment number. Luckily, the little old lady who answers the door recognizes Ryuji’s description of Akechi and points him in the direction of the correct apartment. More than a little embarrassed, Ryuji heads toward the given number.

Any good-natured embarrassment or worry fades the moment Akechi’s door swings open a full minute after Ryuji knocks. Akechi looks worse for wear—he’s leaning on the door handle like it’s helping to hold him up, and the bags under his eyes are more than a little dramatic. If he’s surprised to see Ryuji, he doesn’t show it.

“What,” he says, voice flat. It doesn’t even sound like a question.

“Dude, you didn’t show up yesterday and you ignored my texts. I thought you were dead or somethin’!” Ryuji exclaims. He can’t help it—he’s starting to feel angry again. Akechi just stares at him, and slowly, his expression morphs into a half-hearted sneer. He crosses his arms defensively across his body. 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t realize I was obligated to you. My sincerest apologies,” he says, voice dripping with equal parts venom and sarcasm. Ryuji glares.

“We’ve got an effin’ deal, man. I’m trying to help you out!”

“Has it ever occurred to you that I don’t want your help? That perhaps I’m better off on my own?”

“Bullshit you are!” Ryuji can’t help a frustrated stomp, and when Akechi snorts in bitter amusement, his anger boils over. “We both know you’re only doing this ‘cause you care about Akira whether you want to admit it or not. I’m only doing this because I care about them! So why are you trying to screw yourself over?”

“Maybe,” Akechi hisses through his teeth, “I just needed some time to myself.”

Akechi’s temper is clearly rising to meet Ryuji’s, but that just irks Ryuji more. 

“Coulda told me that! I sat around for, like, forever!”

“Apologies,” Akechi grits out, and then attempts to slam the door. Attempts—because Ryuji shoves his foot in the door jam and forces it back open. Akechi stares defiantly before letting go of the door and stepping back into his apartment. He gives Ryuji a challenging look, and Ryuji answers by pushing the door open and following him inside. 

“Go ahead, let yourself in. Clearly you don’t have much concern for my boundaries,” Akechi drawls, and something inside Ryuji—snaps. He barely restrains himself from smacking him.

“Why should I care about your effin’ boundaries? You’re acting like an asshole like always! You could just text me if you want space!”

Akechi takes a deep breath, clenching his hands into tight fists. He’s clearly trying to keep himself calm. Ryuji hates it.

“I know this might be a foreign concept to you, but I was having a bad day. I simply needed some time to myself. In the future, do try to keep that in mind.”

“I have bad days, too! Doesn’t mean I take them out on the people around me! If you’re gonna see Akira again, you’re gonna have to treat them better than that, ‘cause they don’t deserve that shit!”

Akechi squints at Ryuji, gaze calculating and cold. Ryuji feels scrutinized, scraped raw before Akechi even responds. 

“Why,” Akechi begins slowly, “do you care so much about what Akira thinks of me?”

“Because I want him to be happy, and I’m not gonna be the one to make that happen, so you’ve gotta get your shit together and be who he fucking deserves!” 

The statement hangs heavy in the air. Akechi breathes out heavily and sits down on his couch, back ramrod-straight. Ryuji wishes he could take it back, but it’s out in the open and he knows it won’t be dropped.

“Okay,” Akechi says, carefully neutral. “Okay.”

“Listen, Akechi—” Ryuji starts, but he doesn’t know what to say. Akechi’s heard it all already, anyway.

“Oh, I’m listening,” he retorts, but it’s not as mean as it could be. Still, Ryuji feels cornered. He begins pacing across the room; the only way to get his nerves out is by moving.

“It’s—Akira’s important to me, okay? And you’re important to him. And sometimes I really effin’ hate you for it, but I can’t change how they feel. So I want to do the next best thing and make sure he can be happy, but I can’t do that if you’re just gonna act like a dick!”

Akechi snorts. It’s an ugly sound—equal parts bitter and amused. Ryuji stops his pacing but starts tapping his foot almost without meaning to. Akechi glances at the movement with no small amount of mirth, but says nothing.

“So you’ve chosen me to be your stand-in. Apologies, but I have no interest in being a pawn again.”

Ryuji’s irritation sparks again and he tosses his hands into the air. Akechi watches the movement with a neutral expression, plastic and smooth.

“You don’t have to be a pawn, man! That’s not what I’m asking! But from what I saw last winter, you two obviously care about each other in some effed up way. So, like, isn’t a good ending the best thing for the both of you?”

“Careful, Sakamoto. You’re beginning to sound a bit like Maruki,” Akechi says, but his smirk says he’s only being partially honest. Ryuji huffs and lets himself fall onto the empty side of the couch.

“Wanting somebody to be happy ain’t the same thing as rewriting reality,” he complains. Akechi offers a one-shouldered shrug but no retort. They fall silent again, but it’s like most of the tension has evaporated. After a few quiet minutes, Akechi speaks again, but it’s quiet and not at all witty. 

“I suppose I do care for him. Quite a bit, as it were.” He chuckles sardonically. “Although, given where it’s gotten me thus far, it seems it may be a bit unfortunate.”

“We’ve got that much in common, then,” Ryuji says, and when Akechi awards him with another laugh, it’s much less bitter.

—

From: Futaba Sakura [18:07]:

actually i’m not letting you off the hook. AKECHI?????

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [18:11]: 

it’s kind of a long story

From: Futaba Sakura [18:12]:

is it… safe?

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [18:14]:

yeah, both of us are fine. i ran into him on accident, but i know it’s ok

From: Futaba Sakura [18:17]:

is he the same as he was?

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [18:17]:

he’s trying to get better. it’s kinda freaky actually

From: Futaba Sakura [18:21]:

ჴ˘ര‸രჴ okay….. i’ll trust your judgment on this and i won’t tell anyone

From: Futaba Sakura [18:22]:

but if anything happens i’m finding the worst thing in your phone history and sending it to all of your contacts!!

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [18:24]:

ughhh deal

—

The day after Akira's birthday is a Wednesday, so after school, Ryuji's got no plans. He probably should focus on homework, but instead he's drawn to a much more interesting distraction: the ex-Phantom Thief group chat.

From: Akira Kurusu [16:45]:

Thank you all for the gifts and well wishes yesterday. I really appreciate it. [IMAGE ATTACHED]

The picture he sent is a selfie with Morgana pulled into the frame and squished up against their cheek. Morgana looks to be mid-swipe at the cat-sized party hat on his head, and Akira looks happy. Ryuji grins. The group chat lights up before he can respond.

From: Haru Okumura [16:45]:

How cute! I'm happy to hear you had a pleasant birthday! Perhaps next year we can celebrate in person

From: Ann Takamaki [16:46]:

OMG, hi Mona! Did you get him his own party hat? That's so sweet! 

From: Makoto Niijima [16:46]:

That's good to hear! I'm glad we could improve your day in some sense, even while we're all spread out.

From: Sumire Yoshizawa [16:47]:

I'm very glad to hear that!! Again, happy (now belated!) birthday!! I hope you enjoy the gifts!!!

From: Futaba Sakura [16:46]:

we celebrated in your honor mwehehe [IMAGE ATTACHED] 

In Futaba's picture, Boss is handing her a big slice of cake. Ryuji's stomach immediately growls in jealousy. 

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [16:47]:

dude, no fair that you had cake for akira's birthday and didn't invite me over! i'm just across town!

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [16:47]:

also: glad you had a good birthday bro! you deserve it!

From: Akira Kurusu [16:48]:

Thank you, everyone.

From: Yusuke Kitagawa [16:50]:

Do you have any plans to make use of any of your gifts? I'll admit, I'm curious as to what everyone got you.

Akira sends another picture in response. This time, it's of an unfamiliar lake, with a fishing line cutting across one corner of it. Next to it is a portable coffee mug covered in an explosion of colors and Morgana napping in the sunny grass. Grinning, Ryuji switches his chat to his private message with Akechi and sends the picture.

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [16:53]:

looks like he's already putting our stuff to good use!

From: Goro Akechi [17:01]:

I see. I'm glad they liked it. I'll admit, I was a little doubtful, but I see you know Akira well.

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [17:05]:

well yeah he's my best friend

From: Ryuji Sakamoto [17:07]:

thanks for trusting me on it! i definitely wouldn't have been able to get one as nice as this if it wasn't for you

From: Goro Akechi [17:11]:

Of course.  

—

After that first dinner, their routine changes. They still go out for dinner on occasion, but more often than not, Akechi comes over and eats dinner with Ryuji and his mom. She loves his company, and though Akechi never stops acting polite around her, Ryuji eventually realizes that it's less of the performance he used to give television hosts and more rooted in an earnest desire to please her. It's kind of strange, actually, how he'll be having a polite conversation with her and then turn to snap at Ryuji and then immediately apologize (to her, not to Ryuji) and pick up where he left off. It's at least refreshing that he's being honest, but the changes sometimes make Ryuji's head spin.

Still, it gets to be nice, which is perhaps the biggest surprise of all. Ryuji never thought he'd be hanging out with Akechi all the time, of all people, but that's what it turns into. Sometimes he helps with Ryuji's homework, but other times, they just sort of… chill. It's weird, but it's also kind of nice. Ryuji actually kind of looks forward to it.

And physical therapy is actually helping both of them, which is maybe the biggest miracle of all. His knee still hurts sometimes, but it's more of a subtle ache than anything. He walks without anywhere near as much of a limp, and it looks like he might be able to begin training for an upcoming marathon soon. Ryuji's got no expectation of running the whole way, but if he's able to do it at all, it'll be a miracle. 

Akechi doesn't talk much about his own therapy, physical or otherwise, but he's starting to look visibly healthier. Some of the weight he'd lost while comatose has come back, and he moves smoothly, almost as if nothing had ever happened. But really, his face is where the most obvious change is. His expressions aren't picture-perfect like they were when he was constantly acting, and he doesn't carry that same resignation as he did in Maruki's reality. He's less gaunt, and while his eyes still bear that haunted seen-too-much look, it's not so much all-consuming as it is somewhere in the background. 

Ryuji will never admit it, but he's actually really proud of Akechi for how far he's come. It's a little weird to feel so proud of someone older than him, but he can't help it.

Actually, come to think of it…

Ryuji pushes his textbook aside so he can lean on the table. Dinner's not for an hour, so they've been working in the kitchen rather than at the couch. He taps his pencil absentmindedly.

"Hey, Akechi, you're a year older than us, right?"

"Astute observation," Akechi drawls, but there's no bite to it. Ryuji's used to it by now, so he flicks a scrap of paper at his head. Akechi ignores it in favor of scrawling down another note from his textbook.

"But you're still in school now, yeah? Did you not graduate or somethin'?"

"I did not, no. I was a bit preoccupied," Akechi answers. He finally looks up at Ryuji but only to give him a judgemental stare. Ryuji furrows his brow.

"Dude, I know you were going through some shit, but employers look at that stuff, y'know? You're gonna have to explain that to people!"

Akechi's deadpan gaze morphs into a smile, plastic-perfect and all teeth. It's not quite as refined as it was on TV a year ago, but it gets the point across. Ryuji gets the distinct, familiar sensation that he's made a fatal error.

"You're right, Sakamoto. Silly me. I'll be sure to take future employers into consideration next time I plan on spending several months in a coma."

The response dies on Ryuji's tongue and he grimaces. There's… Yeah. There's no coming back from that.

"Uh… Shit, dude, I'm sorry. I guess I forgot about that." 

"No, no, thank you. I'm sure it's a concern I'll address in the future. I'll make sure to schedule my next coma for winter break so it doesn't impede my education," Akechi says, voice light and airy. Amusement is clear in his eyes, like the asshole he is. Ryuji valiantly resists the urge to smack him upside the head. Still—

"No way are you gonna be in another coma this winter! You've got plans, remember? If that happens, I'm totally telling Akira that you're alive, and you know he would definitely rebuild the metaverse himself just to get into your head about it."

Instead of answering, Akechi groans and drops his head. They both know he’s telling the truth. Ryuji doesn't even pretend to disguise his grin. 

—

Sometimes, though, Ryuji can't stand being around Akechi, and the worst part is, it's not even Akechi's fault. It's just—every time Ryuji so much as mentions Akira, Akechi comes to life. And it stings, 'cause it's a reminder of the way Akira always seemed so animated when the two of them were fighting together, like no one else was there. It's a reminder that Ryuji couldn't be enough for him, that they fell for Akechi instead.

It makes him feel like a total asshole to think that. Like, shit, what kind of friend gets pissed that his best friend is getting a second chance to be happy with the guy he likes? And, like, it's nice to see Akechi happy. He always seems invigorated when Ryuji tells him what Akira's been doing at school recently, or shows him the occasional selfie Akira sends. So he should be happy.

And really, he is! What he wants more than anything is for Akira to be happy, and if Akechi's the way to do that, Ryuji should be relieved. But some small, selfish part of himself still wishes he could have Akira himself. Not that Akira's something to have or anything, just—he wishes he could be the one to make Akira feel like that. He knows Akira likes him, like spending time with him, but—

Whatever. There's nothing he can do about it. All he can do is hope one day the jealousy won't sting so bad.

—

"This fucking idiot," Akechi hisses, or at least Ryuji assumes he does. Ryuji's got his head under the faucet in the shower, so Akechi's words are a little muffled even just from his perch on the bathroom countertop, but it's a phrase Ryuji's heard enough times that he's pretty sure he can make it out.

"What's up?" he calls out, still scrubbing the fresh bleach from his hair. Akechi lets out a sound somewhere between a groan and an offended curse.

"Who goes to the Herddit page for Super Featherman 3 and thinks oh, I'm sure no one noticed Grey Pigeon's ten seconds of screen time in the opening cinematic? Clearly we've all watched it if we're playing the game, and it wasn't exactly subtle! There was an extended shot of his silhouette, it's not a goddamn Easter egg."

He says the phrase so venomously that, had Ryuji not sat through many lectures about the Featherman franchise from Futaba, he'd be inclined to believe it was something consequential in the world that Akechi hates, like Shido's whole existence or the probability of world peace. With context, though, Ryuji just snorts. This does nothing to temper Akechi's rage.

"I mean, if you pay even the tiniest crumb of attention to NPC dialogue, it's impossible to miss the hints that he's alive! It shouldn't come as such a shock that you'd have to tell everyone on Herddit about it as if we somehow were dim enough to miss it!"

"So I take it you're glad he's back?" Ryuji asks, even though he really has no idea what Akechi's talking about. He's answered with a scoff.

"As if. Grey Pigeon is irredeemable and completely unlikeable. The fact that the authors keep bringing him back to life, seemingly without regard for the entire function of his character, is nothing more than lazy writing. It's beyond irritating. The fact that he keeps teaming up with the rest of the Feathermen—no, the very idea that they would put up with him at all after everything he's done—is frankly bullshit. The Feathermen should all hate his guts, especially Red, and it completely negates any meaning of him sacrificing his life for them if he somehow continues to return."

Ryuji… has no idea how to respond to that. Granted, he's not super familiar with the franchise, but it sounds a little too familiar for comfort.

"Uh, dude…" he begins, but he trails off quickly. Akechi doesn't seem to notice, too caught up in apparently typing a reply.

"You… missed… the… point…" Akechi mutters angrily to himself as he types, and Ryuji snorts. He shuts the water off and stands up out of the shower.

"Alright, does it look like I got it all?" he asks. 

It takes Akechi a moment to look up from writing out his furious rant, but he gives Ryuji's hair a quick once-over and nods. Ryuji beams. 

"Sick! Thanks for helping me out, dude. I hate bleaching my roots on my own."

"I was here, and your mother was busy," Akechi says, like a dismissal. As if he didn't just spend an hour helping Ryuji with his hair and then apparently getting into online arguments while he waited. Ryuji just shrugs.

"Yeah, but you still helped! I appreciate it, man, really."

Akechi looks up from his phone to stare down Ryuji, but its intensity has worn down in the past several weeks. He doesn't respond, instead choosing to go back to typing what is certainly a novel in response to some poor unassuming Herddit user. Ryuji makes a mental note to ask Futaba what Grey Pigeon's deal is.

—

"You call all of your friends by their given names," Akechi states one day, early in November. Ryuji's sprawled across his bed while Akechi sits at his desk, staring absently with the pictures of all of the Phantom Thieves Ryuji has hanging above it. Ryuji barely glances up from his manga.

"Yeah. I like the familiarity of it, y'know? Feels like it shows we're close and all."

Akechi's quiet for a long moment, and Ryuji assumes that's the end of it. 

"You call me Akechi." It's a matter-of-fact statement, like he's just talking about the weather. Ryuji puts down his novel.

"I… didn't think you'd want me to use anything else?" he says carefully. Akechi is still staring at the pictures, shoulders tense. Ryuji decides to take the leap and hopes he doesn't get eaten by one particularly vengeful shark once he hits the bottom. "Hey, Goro, are we friends?" 

"...I suppose we are," he says. It sounds like letting out a breath of air he's been holding in his lungs. Ryuji grins, and the tense line of Goro's shoulders softens.

—

Despite how much time Ryuji's been spending with Goro recently, Akira is still his best friend, no contest. They text pretty much every day, and even though it was a little awkward for a bit after the summer, it's gone pretty much back to normal. If anything, Akira's stopped half-flirting with him, but given the circumstances, that's probably for the better.

Still, it's not often they talk on the phone. Akira's not the most talkative person by nature, and scheduling becomes difficult when there's so much distance between them. But November 20th is on a Tuesday, when Ryuji's mom works late and Goro's got double therapy, and so Ryuji calls. He might've called even if he didn't happen to be conveniently alone, given the circumstances. Akira comes first, especially today.

"...Ryuji?" Akira answers on the very last ring. Their voice sounds a little rough, but whether it's from disuse or something else, Ryuji can't tell. Still, he powers on like everything's normal.

"Hey, bro! I just wanted to check in, see how everything's going. How's, uh, how's your day been?"

"It's been… fine," Akira says, but he doesn't sound sure of it. It makes Ryuji's heart pang just to hear it. "I just got home from school a bit ago. I've been working on homework."

"You went to school today?" Ryuji asks automatically, and then wants to smack himself. Of course Akira would go to school, he—

"Can't risk missing too much class with college entrance exams coming up. And it's better than sitting around feeling sorry for myself."

"I bet." Ryuji fiddles with his phone case distractedly. Shit, why's this conversation so damn awkward? "Have you heard from anyone else today?"

"I talked to Futaba and Boss earlier. They wanted to check how I'm doing. Plus I've got a bunch of unopened texts probably asking the same thing."

"Shit, yeah, sorry. I guess I didn't think about how many people are probably pestering you today. I hope it's not too much."

"It's… a lot," Akira admits. Ryuji cringes. "But I appreciate it. It's nice to remember that people care."

"Of course we care about you!" Ryuji explains, a bit too vehemently. Okay, tone it down. "I mean, you're my best friend, Akira. And you're special to everybody you meet. 'Course they wanna know that you're doing okay."

"Thanks, Ryuji," Akira says, a little hesitantly. "I appreciate it. It was nice to talk to you."

"I always wanna talk to you, man. Whenever you want, give me a call and I'm all yours."

It's a bit too honest and they both know it. Akira sounds a little sad when they say their goodbyes, and then Ryuji's alone. Hopefully at the very least the phone call gave him something new to think about.

—

The fall semester ends quickly, and with its end comes the partial reunion of the Phantom Thieves. Ann won't be coming back until the summer, most likely, and Sumire's busy with gymnastics meets and training almost every day. But it's exciting nonetheless, especially when Ryuji's got such a big surprise in store.

Goro doesn't agree. He's complained on end to Ryuji about how poorly everything ended and how Ryuji's willingly risking his friends' happiness by reintroducing him to their lives. Ryuji just says it's fine if he's nervous, but they've got a deal to keep, and Goro squawks in protest but shuts up. Honestly, that might even be the best part.

The days leading up to Akira's arrival are tense and charged, but mostly, Ryuji's excited. He's gonna see them again, which is the big thing, but also he's got secondhand excitement about Akira and Goro reuniting. It should be good for both of them, no matter how much Goro protests that it'll end in disaster. Ryuji's sure it'll be fine.

—

As soon as Akira walks into the room, his face flicks between several different emotions in rapidfire succession—shock, confusion, joy, hurt, anger, sadness—and then shutters closed into a blank mask. He's become significantly more open with his emotions in the past year, enough that it's almost been jarring for Ryuji to witness, but now he looks just as unreadable as he'd been when they'd first met. Which, ouch. Ryuji likes to think he's a good friend and that he understands Akira and all their quirks by now, but clearly he's overestimating himself. 

"Hello, Kurusu-kun," Goro says, stiff, polite, and clearly rehearsed. It's not nearly as fake as his act as the Detective Prince had been, but it's far from authentic. Ryuji would facepalm if the room wasn't so deathly still. Akira stares at Goro hard and calculating, impassive and unreadable. Their gaze finally flicks over to meet Ryuji's and he sees the mask crack just enough to let some hurt slip through. Akira nods his head and sighs.

"Okay," he says simply, and then turns on his heel and walks right back out the door. Goro drops his head into his arms folded on the table.

"Fuck," he says emphatically. "I cannot believe I allowed you to talk me into this. This was a horrible fucking idea! All of this was a waste of time." 

"Bullshit it was, dude!" Ryuji says, scrambling for a solution like he isn't also beginning to panic. "He's just surprised, okay? I mean, wouldn't you be? They've thought you were dead for, like, a full year. That's enough to eff anybody up. Just—let me go talk to him, okay? And don't move! Stay right here!"

Before Goro can answer, Ryuji's rushing out the door and into the street. He looks around a bit frantically in hopes of catching a glimpse of Akira's back at the end of the street, but instead finds him sitting with his back against Leblanc's wall, head in his hands. Ryuji approaches as carefully as he can.

"Hey," Ryuji says cautiously. He squats down next to Akira, careful of his leg. Akira doesn't react. Ryuji valiantly fights the urge to fill the silence.

"...You knew," Akira finally mutters after a few tense minutes. It's not quite an accusation, but it isn't not one either. He mostly just sounds tired.

"Yeah, I did," Ryuji admits. "Just for the past couple months. He, uh, goes to my physical therapist, actually. I found out 'cause I ran into him in a grocery store last September."

"You didn't tell me." It's no more or less accusatory than their last statement, but Ryuji feels the sting anyways. He thinks maybe he deserves it.

"Yeah, I didn't. He asked me not to." Before Akira can respond, Ryuji drops a hand into his shoulder. "But! I told him I wouldn't tell anyone for a couple months as long as he actually came to see you here now. And, well, you saw him!"

"You got him to agree to visit everyone?" Akira asks, and it finally sounds more incredulous than anything. He raises his head to stare quizzically at Ryuji, which… fair. It doesn't sound much like the Akechi of a year ago. But Ryuji just grins and shrugs lightly.

"Sure. But, dude, I got him to agree to visit you. Emphasis on you. You were the selling point here!" Ryuji lets out a sigh and drops his grin into something a little more serious. He really hopes Akira gets that he isn't messing around. "Look, you know last year he and I never got along great. But he's been working on getting better, and trust me when I say it's a big thing for him. Like, we're actually friends now! We get dinner together at least twice a week, and sometimes even after his therapy, which he actually goes to! I think he sorta thinks of it like something to win, a little bit, which is… Not super relevant right now. Anyway, like, he was really worried about not being good enough to see you again, but I can tell he's really trying, y'know? So I'm not saying you gotta forgive him or anything, but—maybe give him a chance?" 

"...Okay," Akira says with a little nod. He looks kind of shocked, actually. 

They stand, though, and offer a hand down to Ryuji to help him up as well. He grabs it gratefully and hauls himself up, shaking out his stiff limbs. He's startled to feel himself suddenly enveloped in an embrace, but he hugs Akira back just as soon as he realizes what's going on, squeezing tight enough that he hopes Akira feels all his appreciation for him. If the way they grip him back is any indication, it's probably safe to assume he's figured it out.

"Thank you," Akira says emphatically, and then, just a touch embarrassed: "Would you mind leaving us alone for a bit? To talk."

Ryuji can't help it: he laughs. Clapping Akira on the back, he agrees easily.

"Let me just grab my stuff quick. I left my phone and shit inside."

Akira leads the way back into Leblanc. Over their shoulder, Ryuji sees Goro straighten his posture, the textbook definition of nervous. Akira slides into the booth across from him and Goro's shoulders relax.

You're welcome! Ryuji mouths at him behind Akira's back, and Goro flips him off under the table. Ryuji snickers and goes to gather his belongings.

"So I guess neither of us are any good at staying dead," Akira says, and Ryuji hears Goro laugh.

"No, I suppose not. Not when the other is involved, anyway."

Ryuji smiles to himself as he pulls the door to Leblanc open. He steps outside to the sound of "let's call it a draw" and a laugh that still isn't quite not a cackle. It's good to hear his friends happy again.

—

Goro and Akira have been flirt-bickering for ten uninterrupted minutes when Ryuji throws his pillow over his face to muffle his exaggerated yell. It's pure exasperation, but it gets them to shut up, which was the goal all along.

"Will you two please get a room and get out of mine," Ryuji complains. Goro just rolls his eyes, but Akira's amused chuckle echoes from Goro's phone.

"I don't really have control of where I am, but if you want to grab Goro's phone and steal me away, be my guest," Akira jokes, and Goro clears his throat in annoyance.

"I'd rather you didn't encourage him to steal from me, Akira," he hisses, and Akira laughs. Ryuji groans, put out, though it's mostly for show.

"Again, guys, c'mon. Quit flirting in front of me! It's weird!"

It's not weird at all, actually. In the two months that have passed since their reunion, this sort of interaction has become standard. But it's Ryuji's job to complain about it, and it's one he does with gusto. Akira apologizes lightheartedly but earnestly, and Goro rolls his eyes.

Spending time with the two of them—or rather, with Goro and with Akira on the phone—has been strange, but overall good. It’s a nice habit to have fallen into. At first, Ryuji was bitterly jealous of how smooth everything flowed, but… Well, he can’t stay mad about two of his friends being happy together. That doesn’t mean it never hurts, but it’s something he can bear. Now, any jealousy is just a quiet tinge, and it fades out quickly. 

Right now, though, there’s no time for jealousy. They’re making plans for what’ll happen post-graduation, and Ryuji’s scrolling through three-bedroom apartment options for the three of them plus Yusuke. He should be on his way over, but Ryuji knows he just started a new painting and he’d bet anything he’ll be at least an hour late. In the meantime, he’s just bearing witness to their weird rituals. 

It’s easier to worm his way into Goro and Akira’s conversations now than it was before their big reunion. He doesn’t feel quite so much like he’s fighting his way in between whatever weird tension they’ve got—now that the weird tension’s got a name and he’s got a stronger friendship with the both of them, it’s easy enough to feel included. 

“Hey, Ryuji,” Akira says, and it breaks him out of his odd quiet stupor. Goro’s looking at him now, contemplative, but Ryuji waves him off and asks what’s up. Akira’s quiet for a moment, before he says earnestly, “I love you, man. Thanks for putting up with us.”

Ryuji’s heart squeezes painfully, but it’s only for a moment. Goro’s still watching him, so he grins and shoots him a thumbs up.

“Love you too, dude! I'm happy for you, for real." He elbows Goro good-naturedly, and he huffs in annoyance but says nothing. "Both of you, actually."

"Must you two both be so needlessly sentimental?" Goro complains with a tsk, but he doesn't protest when Ryuji nudges him again.

"We must, actually. It's necessary for our continued survival," Akira says solemnly, and Ryuji barks out a laugh. Goro sighs, muttering a quiet what am I going to do with you; Ryuji just grins. 

It's not what he was expecting. It's not even really what he wanted, not at first. But he's happy, and his friends are happy, and that's good enough for him.