Archive of Our Own

“I’m...Katsuragi Takumi.” Ryūga’s blood went cold when he heard those 3 simple words. 

His first thought was this can't be real. Sento could have just been confused, or perhaps his memory was just mixed up. Why of all times does it have to be now? Just when Evolt finally let go of him, the hero was gone again. 

Nevertheless, it was apparent. The man before him is not Kiryū Sento. 

Takumi's return was the wild card in this game. Considering the devil scientist was the original owner of the body, the possibility of his return being permanent frightened the group. A dreary game of passing the torch as they watched Takumi pick up where Sento left off, assimilating into this new life. Watching how quickly he falls into rhythm with Sento’s works and reclaims it as his own was met with disdain. 

“You’re late.”  

But, that no longer matters. All it matters is that Kamen Rider Build is back. 

Kiryū Sento is back. 

“I’m back,” Sento said, as the group entered the cafe. There was something in that tone, in that smile, that showed the man in front of them was Kiryū Sento and not his counterpart. 

Misora was the first one to react, tackling Sento with a hug. He hugged her back, apologizing for breaking their promise. Ryūga expected her to cry, but she didn't. It's better to greet someone with a smile after all. 

The group spent the early afternoon following the physicist around like newborn chicks. Everyone has to get used to Sento’s presence again after Katsuragi Takumi left such a bad impression while in that body. 

The first aid kit made a sharp click as Sento closed it. 

“What’s wrong?” Sento asked as the two finished changing dressings, quiet enough that everyone shouldn't be able to hear them. Maybe all of that laughter and complaints about Gentoku’s fashion would drown out their side conversation. “You've been staring for a while now. It's weird so stop doing that.” 

“Eh–oh I-I was?” Ryūga flinched, briefly touching the new dressing on his cheek. The event of today has felt like a blur to him ever since they got back. The boxer doesn't think he can even recall half of the stuff within the last few hours. 

So, not taking it too seriously, Banjou said, “Maybe I was distracted by how that shirt doesn’t fit you at all.” 

Sento was still wearing the button-up that Katsuragi picked out, just hasn't had the chance to change out of it yet. Needless to say, the physicist didn’t look very pleased with the joke. It’s not the joke that he’s mad at, but rather the dodgy nature of the comment itself. 

Of course, Ryūga noticed this. There was a sheepish smile when he finally came clean and said, “I guess I’m just glad that you’re back.”

Ryūga wasn't aware of his pressing gazes on Sento. Is it just a side effect of the grueling fight? Or was it something more insidious? Perhaps Ryūga was trying to confirm something, trying to take in as much of the scientist to say that this person is the Kiryū Sento that he knows. 

It's embarrassing, but Ryūga remembers crying when Sento came back. As he lay there on the hard ground -writhing with cuts and bruises- a warm sense of relief came crashing down on him as he realized his hero had come back to save the day. 

“Ehhh~ That's kinda hard to believe.” Sento appeared to be taken back, amused at the honest response from the younger male. He crossed his leg, leaning forward with a cheeky smirk. It is considered straightforward when it comes to their dynamic. “But, I suppose without this handsome hero around, it's only natural a sidekick like you wouldn't know what to do.”

See? It doesn't take long for the genius to get jaunty. 

“You don't have to be a jerk about it, y'know. But sure, whatever you just said,” Ryūga said, noticing how the scientist only looked more intrigued the more they talked. He missed having those curious eyes studying him. “Can't deny that you’re more helpful in battle.” 

Those big eyes narrowed at him, sulking at the vague answer. “Anything else?” 

“You’re less moody,” Ryūga mentioned, sneering a bit when he saw the physicist sulking at him. “Katsuragi doesn't want anyone to touch his stuff.” 

“What do you mean by less?” Sento grumbled at the comment. “Also, you always break anything you lay your hands on due to that stupid strength of yours.”

“It’s also nicer when your partner has your back.” It was meant as a joke, but Sento’s posture tenses up at that. “That guy just doesn't trust me.” 

It's not Sento's fault since he wasn't aware of it, but the older Rider still felt a bit guilty nonetheless. 

“Knowing what happened, it’s not hard to see why he’s so distrustful of everyone,” Sento explained, his tone almost coming off as pity. 

Ryūga gets it though. 

The guy was used by Evolt and his dad, just then to be disposed of when he found out the truth. It's dreadful to find out everything you've ever done was merely another calculated step within someone's plan. 

Anyhow, Ryūga shouldn't have brought that up. 

“At least now you don't have to worry about that,” Sento said. 

It has been a while, so Ryūga decided to be nice and humor the physicist. “Yeah, thanks a lot,” he replied sarcastically. 

”You’re welcome,” Sento said with that playful voice of his. 

It's the usual Sento. Ryūga finds himself thinking. From the way he moves to the way he speaks and the way he looks at Ryūga, it's simply captivating. The boxer didn't understand how significant Sento was in his life until he was gone.

Over the last few weeks, it was like talking to an empty shell. It felt wrong. It makes Ryūga anxious, having to look at ‘Sento’ while simultaneously reminding himself that the physicist is gone and it's Katsuragi inside that mind.

Katsuragi was so different from Sento.

With only intelligence being the common trait between them, the two geniuses were absolutely night and day. While Sento lived and fought for his friends, Takumi couldn’t even bring himself to trust one of them. He was a serious person with a sharp tongue and never held back on criticizing anyone. He’s always on guard around Ryūga, looking at him with eyes that emit hostility. The boxer decided to leave the guy alone. If that's what eases him, then it's fine by Ryūga. 

Everything happened so fast. 

It's crazy, but Ryūga found himself missing all of Sento’s shenanigans as the days passed by. The physicist might make fun of him every chance he gets, but at least he knows it's their way of getting along. Sento is meticulous, from the way he carries himself to the liveliness he brings to his surroundings. He always abides by the risk that comes with protecting someone, yet also understands that it can't always be done if it jeopardizes the lives of many others. 

Everything Sento did was never for his own happiness. 

The combination of pride and selflessness only inflicted a silent binding on the Rabbit-Tank Rider. It's okay though. Everyone at Nascita always knows when our genius is in a dark place and is always there to help. Sento might be too prideful to acknowledge, but the physicist never refuted help either. 

Ryūga loves that about Sento. 

“Now, what did I just say? Stop staring at me,” Sento said when he noticed that Ryūga was spacing out once again. The younger male flinched in response, seeming as if he snapped out of it but immediately fell back again. 

Dejection and pessimism bombarded Ryūga the longer he stared at Sento. He couldn't bring himself to say anything. It's almost as if all of that leftover adrenaline from the fight has managed to keep the younger Rider functional until right now. He felt like such a bad friend for being like this. Shouldn't he be happy that Sento is back? 

Silence follows, but not the uncomfortable kind. Ryūga supposes it would've if not for the unreadable expression he’s wearing hasn't already spoken enough. 

Just like always, Sento still managed to understand despite the lack of words. His gazes shifted past Ryūga’s shoulder and paused on the other unaware tenants. Ryūga mirrored his action, not seeing anything out of the ordinary before his wrist was grabbed by the scientist, who made sure to avoid the bandaged part. 

“Come here with me,” Sento whispered, before pulling him behind. Ryūga didn't oppose, following closely behind Sento which garnered the attention of everyone as they passed by them.

Not until the two Riders reached the bottom of the stair that the physicist decided to let go of his wrist, voice gentle but firm when he proceeded to ask, “What's bothering you?” 

A clear and unmistakable question that makes the already quiet lab even more uncanny. Ryūga blinked quickly, surprised by the pointed suggestion. “I am fine,” he answered nonetheless.  

“Then stop spacing out, “Sento noted. “What’s going on?”

”I’m probably just tired,” Ryūga said with a faint smile. He couldn’t look Sento in the eyes, feeling like he was going to get lost again. What is going on today? “Utsumi really did a number on me back then.” 

Sento watched him. It’s difficult to tell from the physicist's stern expression what he was thinking. The forced smile that Ryūga gave wasn't enough to trick the physicist's keen sense. Ryūga isn't really known to be good at keeping secrets anyway.

“Then why do you look so sad?” Sento carefully asked.   

Why would Ryūga be sad? If there’s a time to rejoice, it’s now, shouldn’t it? “As I said, I’m just tired.”

“I’m not gonna disappear again…if that’s what's bothering you,” Sento said carefully, taking a shot in the dark and getting it right. His words struck the younger male like landing a bullseye on a dartboard. 

How should Ryūga respond to that? Should he tell Sento how everything felt wrong without him around? Should he tell him how scared he was at the thought that the physicist was gone forever? All of these questions, dreadful questions, they compressed and grind like white noise in the background, deafening until the pressure popped like a balloon….except what came after is not relief, but instead washed-out helplessness. 

Ryūga didn't want to lose Sento.

In the dreariest tone, Ryūga admitted, “It was just so sudden.”

Like always, a few words from Ryūga was all it took for Sento to visibly soften his stand. He breathed out, having a better idea of how to approach this. The physicist said, “Risk is unavoidable…you should already know that.” 

“Yes I do, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t hurt me to see you disappear like that!” Ryūga exclaimed with bitterness.

How can Sento say that so easily? Ryūga thought, taking note of the subtle retreat in Sento’s mannerisms. The older Rider normally has a retort at every turn of the conversation, yet he looks so unprepared at this moment. 

Everyone knows the risk of being a Kamen Rider, thrown into the destructive war within Evolt’s scheme with no knowledge of tomorrow. It's easier to bypass the sacrifice argument in the grand scheme of things. One stranger's life compared to the citizens of an entire country; there's little to no attachment behind that impression. However, the string that’s called relationship won't allow the same belief to be justified. Standing before his friends, Sento simply can't convince them that it’s okay for him to die. 

“It’s not just disappearing, you were replaced by someone that just looked like you. Do you know how unnerving that was?!” Ryūga explained, finally letting his genuine frustrations and worries pour out with anger. Being the most rejected person in Katsuragi Takumi’s eyes, it's no surprise that Ryūga might have a few grievances by the end.  

In the same manner, Sento retorted with his own frustration. “Then what about you? Recklessly sacrificing yourself and trading your own life for mine.” 

Right, that happened didn't it? Ryūga recalled. 

The last week spent with Katsuragi Takumi made what happened with Ryūga and Evolt felt like ages ago, almost irrelevant to the topic at hand. While Ryūga would think of that incident simply as a bad trade-off, the bitterness in Sento’s eyes as he scowled at him would beg to differ. 

Ryūga had reasons to do what he did. Witnessing the poison unfold into vicious waves that made Sento convolve in pain was enough reason for him to risk it all. The only regret he recalled having before his consciousness slipped into the void was not being able to see Sento get cured and recover safely.  

“You don’t get it. It’s not the same as with Evolt. It’s not— cause this was once Katsuragi’s body…” Ryūga rambled on. All of Evolt’s possessions in the past have been of his own will, entering and departing as he felt pleased. In the case of the two physicists, even the alien appeared surprised at the reunion. “He could’ve taken it back forever.”

Sento looked shocked to hear that, clearly hurt by the statement. “Are you implying that I stole it from Katsuragi?” he snapped.

Now, that’s not what Ryūga wants to say. 

“I-I didn’t mean it like that. I can’t describe it but it just feels different,” Ryūga struggled. “Unlike Evolt, it seems like you were gone.” 

The intention behind those words wasn't meant to incriminate the physicist, far from that in the truth. It's Sento who was unfairly robbed of his chance to repent, the chance to prove to the old him that what the science they believe in can bring good. The broken scientist Katsuragi Takumi belittled his work and questioned those around him. The person before their eyes was not the true hero that can lead the story toward a happy ending. 

“Well, I did return, didn’t I?” 

“With his cooperation! What would've happened if he had chosen to not listen? You’ll be gone–” Ryūga couldn't finish that sentence, not that he needed to when Sento immediately turned away in guilt. 

A controversial take or mere intuition, one that had stuck with Ryūga every time he thought back to the Hokuto Proxy Battle a few months back. A question that Ryūga is unsure if Sento would ever be honest with his replies if asked: Is self-destruct the only way to stop the Hazard trigger? 

Something just doesn't feel right. 

First off, Ryūga isn’t gonna pretend to know anything remotely related to the creation of the Kamen Rider system. All of that science or whatever is a whole other galaxy far from what is in his head. What Ryūga does know, however, came from his own experience donning the suit itself. The armor might be tough, but landing consecutive strikes on the Driver itself will offset the entire system. That's what Evolt has always done to them, and if Ryūga was able to pick up on this pattern, Sento must have too. 

Or, perhaps Sento could've asked Ryūga for help? The boxer is aware that they weren't too friendly to each other at the time, but the common goal of winning would’ve easily triumphed over bitter sentiment. Furthermore, why was Misora the only one who knew about the switch? 

Was Sento trying to die that day?  

It added up. Excessive to say the whole thing was intentional but too ignorant if not deemed subconscious to some degree. Sento didn't hope it would go that way, but he was ready if it had gone that way. Possibly ‘enabling’ is also the right word. 

Has the chronic nightmare and guilt of killing provoked such intention? Going as far as to demonstrate wanting to quit his role as Build, it does seem the older male was ready to end it all that night. And that mentality matched perfectly with the Sento from a few weeks ago. With the same combustive procedure, he planned to blast himself and Evolt out of existence if that meant saving Ryūga.

“It’s unfair.” The words trembled on Ryūga’s lips. 

It's just….why go so far? 

Ryūga wants to know. He wanted to ask the physicist why he is so unhappy. Why does it look like he's gonna have another episode if someone utters the wrong word? Why are those normally sparkling eyes replaced with an empty stare when no one is noticing? For the longest time, Ryūga thought that friends are what kept Build from remaining in the dust, but, was that not it? Or, has it become not enough? 

All these unanswered questions -huddled and stifled up and never meant to see the light- now arrived in thundering strikes, in a way that makes him desperate and his eyes water.

Instead of defending himself, Sento chose to stay quiet as he could sense Ryūga’s frustration. There are many things they want to say to each other, to explain, after all that happened. Yet, why does it feel so pointless? 

Ryūga opened his mouth, yet all that managed to come out was incoherent and weary. “Just– right, just forget about it. It doesn’t matter anyway.” 

For a moment, there was silence. Suspense, reckoning that was the worst possible combination of words that could’ve come out of his mouth as in the blink of an eye, Sento’s hands were already gripped around his jacket. Ryūga’s legs ambled over one another as he stumbled backward, staggering until his back hit the side of the stair. 

”Then can’t I also say the same to you?” Sento said through gritted teeth, grips still keeping the younger Rider in place. It has been a while since the last time the physicist showed such an expression because of him. Anguished coated in a thin blanket of relief, lurking concern shrouded by vain denial. “Why did you go and sacrifice yourself like that?! Do you realize how terrified I was back in that ambulance? Don't tell me how to live my life if you are also gonna waste yours!”

It was startling to witness, of course, for all the patience Sento had carried up until now. “My life doesn’t matter! You’re the hero, Sento. You’re the one who's gonna stop Evolt and save everyone,” Ryūga explained, deterring the distress in the other's eyes. 

Sento is cautious and always weighs out possible consequences, but being a hero comes first. A hero that gets blinded by his own emotion. 

Ever since that incident with the Hazard Trigger– no, ever since Sento’s past was revealed, the boxer had always worried. Worries that that egotistical genius is only pretending to be happy in front of everyone but gets depressed the moment he’s left alone with inner self-doubt. Concerns that the scientist doesn't care about his safety as long as it means everyone else is safe. 

The burning desire to protect that Ryūga felt while standing beside Sento as his sidekick scared the boxer sometimes. Victor or loser the Rabbit-Tank Rider might be, Sento can never cross off all the blames he has accounted himself for. That’s why Ryūga is here, to raise Sento from the deep void that he had pushed himself into. 

“If that’s what I need to do for us to win… then it can’t be helped,” Ryūga finished quietly. 

The scowl Sento’s wearing worsened dramatically. They already had this conversation before, way back when Kazumin was still considered a dangerous enemy. It's never in Ryūga's desire that this need to be protective exist, as only a life of suffering would require it. So-called coincidences that, against all odds, put his sentiment to the test time and time again. 

Sento's belief remained the same, however, regardless of the stakes of the situation. “Stop with all of that hero nonsense. Without you, there’s no way I could’ve made it this far.”

“But without me, Evolt wouldn't have been able to revive completely,” Ryūga disagreed. “Katsuragi Takumi might be right after all. I am the problem.”

“We ALL are!” Sento exclaimed, fingers tautening the fabric of Ryūga’s jacket. The pain and anger in those eyes are gone, replaced with more hope-filled colors as they locked on him. “All of us, we made mistakes, but it doesn't mean we can't fix it. That's why science exists, to improve people's lives. It's never too late for us to prove Evolt wrong.” 

A true heroic statement delivered by the jaded protagonist. Not that there's anything wrong with it, them being here breathing and having an argument is the testimony of that. However, something about it still leaves Ryūga restless. 

Those solutions always came with an undue price. 

Does that solution mean sacrificing yourself? Ryūga wanted to ask but understood better. It's been a while since they argued this vehemently about anything. He can’t believe they used to be able to do this nonstop because he’s already getting exhausted from this much. 

Calmly, Ryūga removed himself from Sento's grasp and walked away, pretending that there was more distance between the two Riders than in reality. 

The room is crowded, but Ryūga did find a spot along the left wall to take the much-needed seat, the energy from before drained from his manner. The adrenaline that remained from the earlier battle is now spent. Running a hand through his brown hair languidly, Ryūga chuckled with a sliver of calm left. “This is stupid. What are we even arguing about?”

It's pathetic. Why are they fighting over something like this, in a moment that should've been reserved to celebrate the hero's return? Perhaps Sento also thinks so too as he took a spot beside the younger male. 

“You brought it up first, idiot,” Sento grumbled with tiredness. 

Human emotions can become muddled and deteriorate unceasingly if left unattended. It's unclear to know when it all started and how deeply rooted it is now. Perhaps that explains why they're currently sitting here in silence, listening to the smooth hum of background machinery and the ticking of the clock’s hand; all to start back from common ground. 

Ryūga spoke up first. In a voice too drab for his rowdy image, he said, “You know, looking back, it would have been pretty terrible if I had died.” 

There was a scoff before Ryūga felt Sento moving next to him. He pulled his legs closer and loosely wrapped his arms around his knees, half-casted eyes staring at no particular end. 

“Yeah, if that ain't obvious,” Sento replied quietly. It's meant to be a jab, but the way the grip on his wrist tightened said otherwise.  

“I wasn't scared or anything, just kinda disappointed,” Ryūga told, recalling the tipping point of the battle. The adrenaline that was coursing through his veins numbed the pain, keeping him from collapsing under the weight of Cross-Z Magma. The moment to exchange farewell has long passed. There was only him and the marked target on the screen. 

Ryūga exhaled deeply. “There’s no point in hiding things if I’m just gonna regret it at the last second.”

If only he hadn't made up all sorts of excuses to keep them hidden, maybe all of this uneasy feeling wouldn't exist. 

“It’s unlike you..” Sento muttered something quietly under his breath, expression foreboding at best. Ryūga couldn’t catch the rest. The older male seemed torn, but curiosity always wins and he proceeded to ask, “Then, have you made up your mind?”

“Do I have to?” Ryūga asked blithely.

Sento bit his lip, eyes dimmed and anticipating. “Wh-why are you asking me? Just say whatever you want, idiot,” he muttered through a forced half-smile and looked away. “I mean– like don’t you always do that?”

“I never thought that I'd move on from loving Kasumi,” Ryūga suddenly confessed, and Sento went rigid beside him. It's a delicate topic that he knew wouldn't amount to the lightest reaction, but Ryūga needs to get this off his chest when he is still alive to do so. “When she vanished, part of me also died with her. Even though I had promised to do everything I can to protect her, I failed to do so.”

Sento remained silent next to him. It's difficult to see with his head lower and a bandage covering one side of his face. 

“If you weren’t there to hit some senses into me, I would’ve been fine with going back to prison. I’m glad you were there,” Ryūga said, peeking to the side just to see that Sento was still not looking. He crossed his legs, sitting up a bit straighter as the nervousness started creeping in. “Honestly, our first meeting was such a disaster. I remember thinking ‘What’s with this guy?’ right before you kicked me in the face. You really didn't hold back, huh?” 

“It’s because you attacked me first, idiot,” Sento faintly replied. 

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Ryūga said, laughter bubbling inside his chest warmly. “Anyway, it took me a while to finally trust you. Talking about fighting for love and peace, everything about you was too idealistic.” 

“There were a lot of things we didn’t know back then,” Sento added, noticeably awkward having to be reminded of this again. “Up until that point, I’ve only been fighting as Build by myself. You were just too reckless for me to rely on.” 

“I wasn’t that reckless,” Ryūga said unconvincingly. No response from the other male, so the brunet carried on with the story. 

“It didn't hit me until that one conversation we had in the warehouse,” Ryūga recalled. Even while masked by the darkness of the room, the pure fondness in Sento’s voice and expression was bright, and it changed something within Ryūga. “When you say helping others makes you crack a smile, I can tell that you’re being honest. I remember thinking ‘Ah, maybe he’s onto something.’ Since then, I couldn’t help but notice whenever you smile.” 

“That is… random,” Sento pointed out.

Ryūga shook his head, perhaps a tad bit too eager. “Not at all. Ever since the incident with Hazard Trigger, you rarely smile anymore. I’m not talking about the stuff around people, but that content… solitary smile that you always have on the sideline.”

It's always elating to see Sento smile, but Ryūga couldn’t shake away the feeling of loneliness while looking at it. The subject of Sento’s smile doesn't include the hero himself. 

“Everything about you reminds me of Kasumi. Not that you’re as kind or cute as her, but there's just something that makes me not want to leave you alone. Like, I seriously thought that maybe I took too many hits to the head to reach that kinda conclusion,” Ryūga laughed, but there was no zeal behind it. A sudden wave of mournful memories washed through him. He exhaled shakily, hating how emotional he gets at every mention of his late fiance. “Watching you crumble from guilt reminds me of how powerless I felt watching Kasumi getting weaker by the day. I'm always in the background, wanting to help but not sure how. Pathetic isn’t it?”

“With how surprisingly helpful you are, I would say no,” Sento answered. His tone had softened considerably, wearing a faint smile as he spoke. “You are a pain whenever you don’t listen, but when you do, stuff gets done much faster.” 

“I told you. These muscles are not for show,” Ryūga cooed, trying to catch the scientist's reaction but missing it last second. 

An airy, amused laugh escaped Sento. “It was just alright,” he humored.  

It’s only moments like these that Ryūga realized how much he missed Sento. The sharp tongue, the haughty attitude, and the way too-attractive smile. It had been a while since he last saw them. 

“It was tense when Katsuragi was around. I’m just glad things are finally back to normal.” 

“For now,” Sento added. 

“Well, that's why I need to get this off my chest before then,” Ryūga revealed, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “You know the time when we invaded Seito and I ended up with Cross-Z Magma?”

Sento shot him a questionable look at where he was making this connection but nodded regardless.

“That– was one of the worst moments in my life. Yeah, we escaped and whatnot, but things could've turned out much worse,” Ryūga admitted. 

Laying there on the ground, unable to do anything but helplessly watch Sento struggling to breathe with the grip around his neck, the thought of ‘Ah, I’m gonna lose another person close to me,’ pounds like thunder inside Ryūga’s head. 

“It was just so closed,” Ryūga said. Unlike the match against Hokuto, that moment felt much more real, much more...familiar. 

It was the same way that Ryūga had lost Kasumi.  

“It then happened again when you got poisoned. Once again I felt really hopeless,” Ryūga recalled with a grimace before a faint (and more hopeful) smile was replaced on his face. “But then, I was given the chance to save you... so I took it.” 

Evolt needs all of his chess pieces to do their parts in his plan of destruction for it to work. It's not within Ryūga or Sento's position to refuse the alien even if they knew this only furthered his evil plan, especially when the other person's life is on the line. It was scary to have to trade off all of the Fullbottles and the Pandora Box, and yes it was sickening to find out he and Evolt are related, but all of that is nothing but an afterthought as the sun went away, replaced by the surging red glare of Cross-Z Magma as the battle continued into the night. 

At that moment, the thought of losing Sento terrified Ryūga the most. 

Ryūga took a gamble on the fact that Evolt hadn't gone back on any of his promises so far and traded off his life to protect Sento’s own. The physicist is the key to undoing all of this, so while it's regretful for Ryūga to have to miss out on the end, there was also comfort in knowing a hero is protecting that happy end. 

“Once again, I was able to do something,” Ryūga's voice quavered, repressing those painful memories from replaying inside his mind.

Being able to save Sento and having the power to do so gives Ryūga hope that everything is under his control. After going through so many dire situations and making it out victorious every time, the threats that Evolt made began to fall apart. 

“Just when that was settled, you have to go and get yourself possessed trying to save me,” he complained, nudging Sento, who only clicked his tongue in response. How predictable. “Then, Katsuragi Takumi came back.” 

That...was probably the worst plot twist out of all of them.

“Like, I get it y’know, that he hates me and stuff. It just sucks that he looks like you,” Banjou explained. 

Admittedly, Ryūga was ashamed of trying to look for anything left of Sento within Katsuragi Takumi. The two scientists share the same body, so transient remembrance flashed like Deja Vu. Whenever Katsuragi is not running his mouth about something negative, walking around the lab in total focus, eyes focused and dry erase marker pressed thoughtfully against his lip. 

Perhaps it would've been better if there was no resemblance at all. 

“I hated it,” Ryūga said bitterly. It's the simplest way he can describe how he felt about the last few weeks. Not at Katsuragi or anyone in particular, but at everything. “I thought I lost you.”

If there was any other more perfect moment…

Three simple words that Ryūga never thought would resurface after Kasumi’s death. A sentiment -up until a while ago- that if to be inquired, the answer would've been his late fiance. A jaded sensation damped with tears after too much late-night thinking. The halcyon past that hopefully would remain as vivid memories. 

This is my second chance. 

A time where it doesn't feel like the end of the world is lurking at the dawn of every new day. Sure, Kasumi was sick, but the two young lovers made the most of the time they had together. Laughing, crying, stressing over medical bills and Kasumi's health worsening- never once did Ryūga feel like giving up. Having responsibilities gives him a purpose, the knowledge that he’s helping the person whom he cares the most about.  

It's everything he felt about Kiryū Sento.  

It took Ryūga a long time to accept that the way he sees Sento has changed -for better or worse- since the first instance of their terrible meeting. He noticed right away that finding (much of) all Sento’s scientific outburst ‘adorable’ or the way his content smile made Ryūga’s chest flutter with zeal just doesn't hit the same way compared to his other friends. Likewise, nothing riled him up more than seeing Sento getting hurt. It's the type of reaction he used to only have about Kasumi. 

“I thought it would've been better to not say anything,” Ryūga wavered, dreading heavily as he didn't prepare this far ahead. It’s not like Ryūga is asking him out or anything but still, especially toward the fastidious Sento, this sort of thing is terrifying. Ryūga is not asking for much except for his feelings to be heard. 

Would he freak out?

This…whatever set dynamic the two had going on, Ryūga doesn’t want to destroy it. They’re close friends and that has been the comfortable norm for the longest time. On the battlefield, they fight together as Build and Cross-Z. At home, they’re roommates who hang out around one another way too much. Neither complains as it’s as far as their ego would confide. 

It was enough for Ryūga…at least before all of this mess. 

He’s sweating a bit now, fingers flexing and scratching rigidly against the material of his jean. Calm down. Ryūga reminded himself. His body is tense, just like the frown no doubt is etched on his face right now. Awkwardness prickled like tiny needles under his skin, running down his back like a cold chill. 

It’s not like himself to waver like this. 

Sento flinched at the sudden movement next to him. Naturally, he was about to ask if something was wrong but the question was quickly forgotten the moment their eyes met. His expression alone told Ryūga that he knew -they both knew- what was about to happen. 

“Sento, I-”

“Don’t say it!” Sento cut him off tautly. It was startling as not only Ryūga but also the physicist mirrored the same wide-eyed stare right after, almost like he didn’t mean to shout.

Did he just– The realization dawned on Ryūga. He’s heartbroken that Sento just shut him down, but more than anything he is more baffled at the way it happened. The physicist had a very strong reaction to something he hadn't even heard the entirety of yet. 

I didn't know he would be so upset. Attempting to hide his dismay, Ryūga forced a smile because what else can he do in this situation? “Oi, at least let me finish before-”

Hastily, “No, that's not it!” Sento stammered, alarmed and apologetic once realizing how callous that had been. “That was– that’s not what I meant.” 

To have such a strong initial reaction just to then backtrack almost immediately. The inconsistency confused Ryūga. “But you said-”

“I know! And I didn’t mean to make it sound that harsh. It was so sudden so I just…” Well, now the physicist is just rambling.

By the sound of it, it seems like Sento panicked and chose the wrong word to stop him. Now, not that it’s good news or anything since Ryūga is still left hanging, but~ at least Sento wasn't angry or anything. 

Gotta look at the bright side Ryūga. 

“It’s alright. Everyone reacts differently anyway,” he supposed, scratching the back of his head and sighing. He slumped back against the wall, fist clenched to hide the slight shaking. Ryūga doesn’t want to make this a big deal. After all, it’s their friendship that matters the most. “I just wanted to– coming from me it must've weirded you out.”

“Huh?”

As upsetting as it is that Ryūga couldn't say it normally, the point still got across. Sento now knows of Ryūga’s feelings, taking off the weight that has been burdening him for months. 

“I just wanted to say it 'cause the moment felt right,” Ryūga admitted. 

A really good thing happened today, that's why Ryūga should forget about this personal matter and just be glad that Sento is finally back. He can mope about it later -all by himself of course- but right now is not the time. 

“You can just ignore it. It was good just being able to say something,” Ryūga exhaled deeply, as unease as before he started this conversation. 

This is the worst. Ryūga thought, finally daring to steal one glance at his partner, who meanwhile didn't look too pleased with what he had just been told. 

It's kinda hard to tell exactly what Sento’s feeling, but it's certainly negative. He’s frowning with a thin line on his lips, staring hard with his eyes. It's not like glaring, the expression of someone who is both exasperated and hurt. 

Right, definitely hurt. 

“There’s no way I can forget it,” said Sento, so certain that it was intimidating. Even just a little, the eager look in his eyes almost renewed a sense of hope within Ryūga. 

Regardless, “It's not like I finished saying it. Should be hard to pretend—”

“I know what you were about to say, Banjou. That's why there is no way I can ignore it,” Sento confessed, still looking at the younger male with that unreadable expression. 

It’s the same fluttering zeal that leads Ryūga to assume all sorts of things. 

“I don't get it,” Ryūga said, not because he was playing dumb but in a genuinely frustrating curious way. The thing Sento just said, how does that make a difference? 

“Of course, you don't,” Sento huffed, not as playful as usual. His eyes darted around, unsure how to approach this without hurting his ego. “What I mean is that it is…”

“It is what?” Ryūga echoed, collecting himself to properly face the other male. He leaned closer, and Sento couldn't help but back off at the sudden attention on him. 

With Ryūga desperately trying to avoid another misunderstanding, unless Sento is as straightforward as one can be, the boxer is at a complete loss. Sento bites the corner of his bottom lips, questioning why of all people it has to be this idiot. Yet, this emotion weighed heavy at the tip of his tongue, dying to chime in the rest of that unfinished confession.

There's some faint color on Sento’s skin already, narrowed eyes darting around unceremoniously. The physicist vex quietly under his breath, yet his voice as he said, “That...I don’t think it’s weird,” was amusingly sluggish. 

Ok, maybe Ryūga is dumb after all. It's a vague hint, but the expectation of him being able to break through the pretenses is strong with the impatient stare Sento is giving him. He's not clueless either, just the only possibility Ryūga can think of is…not possible. 

Trying to explain a complicated answer with another confusing one is such a Sento thing to do. 

If Ryūga doesn't figure this out, he feels like the older Rider is gonna explode on him. “Uhhh–” he stammered between nervous laughter. 

“Seriously, it’s not that complicated.” Sento griped, having enough of the simpleton. “I can't ignore it because I also have the same feeling as you.” 

This time around, Ryūga had no problem understanding the message. He understood it too well that all earlier disappointment seemed nothing more than a groggy dream. The words struck him like lightning, or like being at the end of a Rider kick, which Ryūga can, sadly, confirm that it hurt like hell. Oh, and also Sento (essentially) half-shouting the words at him might or might not contribute to the shock. 

Seriously?! The startling realization boomed and popped like little fireworks in his -at the moment- addled brain. No wonder Sento was so skittish and tight-lipped the whole time. For someone like him to admit something like that. 

Just in case, since Ryūga wasn’t responding, “Please don’t tell me you still haven’t–”

“No- no I get it. Just– I’m still thinking okay?” Ryūga said, putting up a hand in defense. His brain can only handle so many shocking things in one day, let alone the emotional whiplash as a result of it. Feeling happy is a given, but relief would be more fitting. 

For the second time today, Sento has become the reason for his smile. 

Ryūga perked up in his spot, eyes bright and colors returned to his skin. While the turn of events was unexpected, it's a favorable one nonetheless. Eagerness incited a new rhythm in his chest, accelerated as if it had just been past the baton in this relay race for love. “Then, why did you stop me?”

Sento looked away, already contrite at what was about to be said. “Because that's as far as I can go with it.” 

Ryūga looked confused by the statement.

“A lot had happened, and it’s a good thing that we got to talk about it,” Sento faltered, complexion unfittingly drab for someone due to an explanation. He appeared more disheartened than Ryūga somehow. “I know this might sound ridiculous, but just knowing is enough. We should just leave it there.” 

“By leaving do you mean…”

“Yes. That we should keep things the same between us…as friends.” Sento finished quietly.  

If only Ryūga can pretend he knows nothing of the physicist's intention. Being an (insufferably) inseparable pair had ultimately broken down any possible barriers between the two, including the one where sentiments and secrets hid behind. Luckily, there have been more pros than cons that came out of it, but something like that does automatically make a one-sided crush not very one-sided anymore. 

“Why?” Ryūga asked, still very confused. Why would Sento want them to remain friends? 

Wait, what about remaining friends? 

There's no definitive truth until there's verbal confirmation, as both Riders are notoriously evasive about their feelings for each other. That's why Ryūga wants to hear it with his ears, the reason for Sento's ambiguous requests. Otherwise, everything is only gut feelings and coping. 

Troubled, Sento averted his grimace, dismissive when he said, “If you already know the answer then-”

“No, I don't. You might think that I do but I don't,” Ryūga said pensively, disliking the confrontational way in which their exchanges seem to always unravel. The difference is, this time, there is a point at the end and he is determined to see it. “I said my part so now if you have a problem with it, then go ahead and say it yourself.” 

This all started because Ryūga wanted to be honest for one toward Sento, but somehow it had diverted into something else. Sento being so insufferably evasive has raised a red flag and Ryūga can’t ignore it. He isn't scared of confrontation and is very aware of the callous way he expressed himself. Being by Sento's side only exacerbated it tenfold. It's exhausting, both mentally and physically. 

Sento’s tendency to bear the burdens in silence vexes Ryūga to no end. Oh, and the length he would go to lies about it too, downright patronizing especially when he wants to keep you out of it. It worked as Ryūga had found himself storming away in anger more than once. He eventually discerned that being too irascible around Sento is equal to fighting an already losing battle. 

“You always call me an idiot, but right now you’re making that same idiot guess what you’re thinking,” Ryūga chuckled, though his attempt to lessen the tension didn't really work. It’s almost as if the bright, benefit-of-the-doubt tone he had ended up doing the opposite of encouraging. 

Sento looks torn, appalled at the boxer's grievance like it's something the younger male shouldn't have known. There was no timely rebuttal like usual; as haughty as he often seems, Sento knows what's being asked of him is only fair.

“Seriously, you’re always so persistent,” Sento said warily, trying to come off as more annoyed but ultimately failing. His expression troubled and his eyes cast low, barely meeting the watchful gaze of Ryūga. After some seconds to collect his words, the older male grimly admitted, “I… I might die.” 

The implication of what had just been said didn't settle right away for Ryūga. At first, the boxer thought that he had misheard Sento, but the palpable silence that followed says he didn’t. It’s not something he was preparing to hear; how could anyone really?

“...what?” 

Sento closed his eyes momentarily, clinging onto what thread-thin composure he had left and carrying on. “I don't want you to have to go through the pain of losing someone you love twice.”

It’s like something just went off in the room. Ryūga tried to make sense of it but the initial shock wouldn't let him. He peered at the physicist with this incredulous look on his face, and when the realization finally set in, Ryūga could swear he stopped breathing. 

“What does that even…” was all Ryūga could muster.  

“When I look back at everything that had happened,” Sento spoke calmly, “with the Hazard trigger, the poison, and now Katsuragi, there were just– so many times that I could've died.”

“But you didn't.”

Sento breathed in a shallow breath, unable to look at the younger Rider. “We don't know what Evolt is capable of now that he has the Pandora's box in his possession. Not to mention the Evol-Driver. I can still remember when he–'' Sento hesitated, realizing he said too much. Ryūga guessed it was something that happened while he was gone. The physicist cleared his throat. “What I’m trying to get at is that this will surely happen again. Something outside of our control will unexpectedly happen and leave us separated.”

“Aren’t you just overthinking it?” Ryūga responded. “Evolt might be strong, but we always manage to win every time.”

“But he doesn't just get strong out of nowhere, Banjou. There’s always more to his plan,” Sento reminded Ryūga in a low voice. “Evolt won’t stop until he gets what he wants. It’s not gonna be easy.” 

I don't get it. In the beginning, Sento was speaking to him like death was some kind of inevitable (or expected) thing waiting for him at the end. Yet, the older male still sounds so composed while talking about Evolt. Ryūga knows it’s not like the alien scare him or anything, but he expected Sento to be more… unease-sounding.

Unless there's more to Sento’s plan than Ryūga was told. 

“So what’s the problem then?” Ryūga decided to ask. “You sound so certain, then what’s making you so worried?”

Sento’s expression was dour when he spared Ryūga this soft but sullen glance. In a low tone, he reminds Ryūga, “That is the problem. I’m confident because I will do anything to make sure we win.” 

Knowing Sento’s track record, his words can only mean one thing: sacrifice. 

Is this all we can do? Ryūga questioned. No one should have to constantly make decisions on whether or not they should die for the sake of everyone else. It’s frustrating to watch as someone who cares so much for this idiotic selfless hero. Since when did Sento begin to have these thoughts? Has he slowly convinced himself into being okay with dying?!

Ryūga wondered if he shouldn’t have said all of that earlier. Sento had allowed his narrative to twist Ryūga’s words into something befitting its ending, letting tribulation blindside him from all the miracles that together they’ve created even in the face of adversity. It means the physicist is unable to see himself as the person Ryūga fell in love with.

“Is that all?” Ryūga suddenly asked, a voice so cold it startled Sento. “The reason why you reacted like that, nothing else?” 

“Banjou…” Sento wavered.  

It was never much of a one-sided crush, going as far as deceiving themselves for the sake of what really? That this new feeling, growing more day by day and would throb and swell at the mercy of the faintest of smiles could purport anything else other than love. A feeling so intimate and everlasting that he wants Sento to experience it.      

“And here I thought you didn’t like me. I got scared for nothing,” Ryūga said nonchalantly. He got up from his spot, offering Sento a hand which was accepted.

Sento looked half-confused, even more so when Ryūga turned to fully face him. “What are you-”

“It doesn’t matter,” Ryūga blurted out, watching Sento freeze up before him. “Instead of letting my love eventually become a regret, I rather spend the rest of our time making you happy.”

If Ryūga can’t talk Sento out of his worries, then he’s not going to. There is already enough arguing for today. Instead, he's gonna take this opportunity and let Sento know how much he meant to everyone. It’s not about some excessive fear of the future, but rather what’s happening now. Ryūga has done this before and will absolutely do this again no matter how many times it takes. No matter how many times Sento trapped himself behind his walls, Ryūga will break through and give him hope. 

Sento was speechless, stunned by Ryūga's sincere words. 

“I know you don’t always take me seriously, and I tend to lose my cool, but this time I really mean it,” Ryūga admitted with a tint of embarrassment. “This is how I feel and I’m not gonna give up on it.”

It’s hard to see what Sento is thinking at the moment. With wide eyes, raised eyebrows, and a blank face, it’s the same enthralling look whenever the older Rider is taken back by something Ryūga did. His mind races for answers while also remaining poised. 

“It’s only at times like this…” Sento murmured. He tried to hide the tears that had begun to form in the corner of his eyes by looking away, but the trembles in his voice betrayed him. “Always trying to act cool with your promises. Why do you always have to say things that make me want to tear up?”

Something about the way Sento is failing to hide the spiraling emotion inside him makes Ryūga feel relieved. The older Rider isn’t truly content with everything he must do, and that’s okay. That’s why Ryūga is here for him, rekindling hope from a pile of embers. 

“Is it really okay?” Sento questioned with a strained tone, eyelids half-casted dolefully. “If it wasn’t for me, none of this would’ve happened. I don’t deserve–”

“Arghh~ how many times do I have to say this? You are not Katsuragi! The two of you can’t be any more different,” Ryūga assured, taking the initiative by reaching out and holding Sento by the side of his arms. Like a skittish rabbit, the older male tensed up in his hands, eyes swiftly darted from side to side before settling on Ryūga. “You changed our life for the better. So please, give yourself a chance.”

There’s still a tinge of doubt in Sento’s eyes as he stared back at Ryūga. 

What do I have to do to get through to him? 

His grip on Sento’s arms tightened and Ryūga leaned forward slightly. Their eyes were locked on each other, and at that moment, Ryūga knew he wasn't gonna fail again. 

“Sento, I love you.”

The 4 words rolled off Ryūga’s tongue so effortlessly like he had said them a thousand times before. Adrenaline coursed through his vein and warmed his skin up into a healthy blush. Concerns, nervousness, and things that previously plagued his mind vanished into nothing, leaving behind only fondness. Ryūga felt relieved because it felt right. 

“I ignored it for a long time because I didn’t want to make it awkward between us,” Ryūga revealed, “then you were gone and I realized I should’ve said something. I really missed you.”

It was quiet for some time before he noticed it, but for the first time in a while, Sento cried. 

Well, not exactly crying-crying but the tears were there. There were enough to gloss his eyes and glisten as they rolled down his flush cheeks. Sento tried to quickly wipe them away with his fingers, but it was already too late. It’s the first time Ryūga has seen him cry over something that isn't sad. 

“Ah– why are you crying now? You didn't even cry back then,” Ryūga chuckled, stepping back to give the physicist some room. It was funny when Sento tried to glare at him through all the tears but only ended up causing more to overflow.  

“Shut up!” Sento grumbled with a quavering voice.

“Guess now we’re even,” Ryūga remarked with a laugh, hands resting on his hip. Sento rolled his eyes, clearly wanting to say something snarky but couldn’t in this state. It’s certainly endearing to watch.

He seriously is something else. Ryūga can't believe how satisfied Sento can make him feel just by being happy. He got to witness another side of Sento today. The fact he can cry before him…should Ryūga consider a step up in their relationship? Though, Sento really freaked him out back there when he suddenly yelled at him back there. Just when he gained all of this confidence to come clean and–

“Banjou–” The sound of Sento calling his name snapped Ryūga from his thoughts. 

Right away, Ryūga noticed the physicist was acting sheepish and fidgety with all the brief eye contact he kept breaking. His eyes are a bit red and still damp with tears, but overall it looked like he is back to normal.  

“What’s wrong?” Ryūga asked slowly. 

“I want to say…” Sento faltered, ruffling his hair awkwardly. It’s a level of timidness that Ryūga has never seen before. “That is… thank you, for telling me that.”

Ryūga didn't think it was something that would warrant a thank you, but weirder things have happened today. “Ah, right. Though, is it something worth—”

“And also, I love you too,” said Sento. 

Ryūga froze, drawing a blank after hearing those words. 

“After everything you told me, I can't just stay quiet. That wouldn’t be fair for you,” Sento said, even though Ryūga knows this must’ve embarrassed the physicist so much to admit that. “Seriously, you really like to surprise me. Next time, don’t–”

But before Sento could finish, Ryūga already went ahead and pulled the physicist into a tight embrace.

“H-hold up!! Wait a sec– Banjou, what are you doing?! Let me go!” Sento yelled, further panicked when the younger male didn't seem to budge despite his protest. He wriggles and tries to push Ryūga away but wavers when the brunet slides to rest his head against his left shoulder.

“I really can’t with you,” Ryūga exasperated, tightening his embrace and earning a small sound from the physicist. “If you say something like that, I really won’t be able to let you go.”

“Banjou…” Sento breathed, considering before slowly raising his arms to reciprocate the hug. It’s nothing compared to the lively Ryūga, but it is there and Sento finally lets his body relax. 

“But, I still don’t know about us going out and such,” Sento added warily. “It’s only gonna get more hectic from now on and–”

Ryūga pulled back to look at the older Rider, looking very confused. In a curious tone, he asked, “Going out? Where?”

“Eh–?” Sento looked back at him, dumbfounded also. “Isn’t that what you meant when you said…”

“Hah?” 

Now Sento also looked equally confused. Question marks form one after another, floating around the silent lab as the puzzlement drags on. The two Riders shared this long, incredulous stare before Sento was the first one to get it. He went from realization to appalled then embarrassment. 

“No way–” Sento murmured, eyes darting around in disbelief. Then, as something had come over him, he remembered what they were doing and pulled away.

Going out…going out…. Ryūga repeated in his head, hoping it would spark some clues but nothing came to mind. Meanwhile, Sento looked so ruffled that he might explode on him.  

“The confession…” Sento griped, trying to help Ryūga out.

Confession? Hearing that, Ryūga tries to retrace their conversation. It’s not until the part right after Sento interrupted him that the brunet remembers Sento mentioned something odd. The older Rider said something about remaining as friends… 

“Ah!” Ryūga exclaimed, pointing at Sento with his index finger. “You thought I was asking you out?”

Ryūga must be right, but perhaps he shouldn’t have sounded so happy saying that as another person doesn’t seem very pleased with him being so easygoing. 

“Do you have to be so loud about everything?” Sento complained with arms crossed sternly on his chest.

Now it all makes sense. The sudden outburst, the seemingly random topic, and why it didn’t feel like they were talking about the same thing at times. Their communication isn't the best, but this was something else. 

“I mean that kinda worked out right? You just said that we shouldn’t go out because of everything going on…” Ryūga drifted off when he noticed the physicist looked hurt at the comment. “...unless that's not it?”

“No, you’re right. I assumed things on my own,” Sento denied and looked at the ground. “Right now isn’t the time for something like this, with Evolt still out there. I don’t want anything to affect our teamwork.”

Ryūga actually agreed with where Sento is coming from. Their lives are in such disarray that starting a new relationship might not be the best decision right now. He doubts it would affect his performance as Cross-Z, quite the opposite, but it doesn’t seem like Sento was talking about teamwork in the literal sense. The physicist is very worked up, but Ryūga is unable to match that level of concern. 

I don’t know what he wants. Ryūga mulled, seeing this is why he didn’t want to confess in the first place. 

Deluded by the frustration over Sento's stubborn selflessness while also thrilled to see him back, Ryūga thought it was okay to reveal something that had been eating away at him for months. He wasn’t expecting anything out of it, just wanting to let his feelings known. If only there was a way to change Sento’s mind.

“Then, how about afterward? We can put this off until Evolt is defeated,” Ryūga suddenly suggested, and before Sento could correct him, the younger male continued, “I think we’re fine as we are right now, so let's make the best of it until then.”

Sento looked skeptical at the optimistic words. He asked, “What if something happened before then?”

Once again, Sento is focusing on the ‘what if’ instead. To his best, Ryūga frankly replied, “I don’t know but we shouldn't let it stop us from doing what we want.”

It's not a very foolproof answer but it is the most honest. He stood still and let Sento's keen eyes study him, arms crossed and fixed in his thinking mode. Ryūga won’t say it’s nerve-racking but enough to put butterflies in his stomach. That went on for almost 30 long painful seconds before Sento uncrossed his arms and sighed deeply. 

 “Alright, if that’s what you’ve decided,” Sento said, already turning away to leave. The aloof demeanor makes it seems like the physicist is still uncertain, but as his partner, that’s all Ryūga needs to understand him. “We should head back before everyone gets worried.” 

Ryūga nodded as he followed right behind. There’s still some thought left, so right as they reach the stair, the brunet said, “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to ask you out properly then.” 

“Shut up!” Sento said, trying to ignore the younger male.

“Earlier, you could've just lied and rejected me. Why didn't you?” Ryūga asked, finding it odd that instead of tricking him like Sento normally would, today the physicist chose to be honest.

Sento stopped after a few steps and looked back. He thinks for a second before admitting, “It’s because you were looking so sad it makes me feel guilty for lying.” 

He left before Ryūga could say anything.

That was the second time Sento had told him that today.