⇒The only way you can take away the power of those who have hurt you...

Anger boiled and bubbled below the surface as [Name]'s lips pursed tightly to withhold any harsh words. Her [Eye Color] orbs flashed with fury and she held her fists clenched at her sides. Her breath came out in large puffs of air that almost made her dizzy from hyperventilation.

He had done this to her for a very long time. toying with her emotions and using her until she was ready to snap. Each time, he pushed and pushed until she was angry enough to shout obscenities to the sky and glare at anyone who dared speak to her, or even breathe in her direction.

So why did it still bother her?

"Aww, [Name]-chan, did I go too far again?" the raven-haired man asked, his tone cloaked with false regret as his lips twitched into a smirk. His eyes danced to the side, aiding in his show of false sadness at what he'd done. "I always forget that the topic of your brother is off limits. But, you have to admit, Shizu-chan is a loose cannon, just like you."

"Shut up, Izaya!" she finally snarled, throwing her hands into the air with frustration. She wanted nothing more than to cause harm to the information broker, but she knew he was much too agile for her. "My brother and I... we aren't a part of your games! I work with you, not for you, and I will not be manipulated to go against him like you want! He's my family!"

"Alright, I'm sorry," he lied smoothly, hands in the air in a show of surrender. Yet, his eyes, as they met hers, were sparkling with mirth. "You know I need you, [Name]-chan. I didn't mean to upset you."

She took a deep, very slow intake of air, holding it for a few seconds before she let it out through her teeth. Her [hair color] bangs were tossed into the air briefly before she finally came to a decision. She did something she'd never done before:

She smiled at him.

"It's alright, Izaya. I understand." Her words were soft, a stark contrast to her enraged tone from moments ago. And the reaction she received was exactly what she had been wanting.

Ruby red orbs widened and shock crossed Izaya's features, his mouth moving but no words coming forth.

"I'll just be going now. Have a good evening, and I'll see you in the morning. Don't forget our meeting with Celty."

For the first time since she had known the man, [Name] was able to exit the apartment with the last word, leaving Izaya standing stunned at his desk.

⇒ ...Is to forgive them.