Ren was the first one to arrive at the apartment. It was unlike him to be that early. Usually Makoto was the first to arrive.
His impatience was showing.
The hours since they had parted seemed unbearably long.
Fortunately, their agent, Toshima Michi, was already there to let him in. She must have understood the look of surprise on his face, explaining, "I was showing this place to another applicant right before you. If either of you like it, you'll need to decide soon."
Ren nodded.
While this apartment had been on both his and Makoto's short lists, looking over it again, there were some flaws he didn't notice before. For example, the bath…
He looked into the bathing area. It was quite small. Would he and Makoto…
Memories of the night before surfaced yet again. The shot of adrenaline to his system felt both spectacular and uncomfortable. He turned his head away in the off chance anyone was looking.
He hadn't been very productive at work that morning either.
"Oh, am I late?"
Her voice sent another shot, this one much stronger.
Calm down Kurusu. You've been in relationships before.
He walked back to the entranceway, forcing himself to a casual pace. The result was a rather robotic stride which he hoped she didn't notice.
Makoto was already in the apartment proper by the time he dragged himself there.
Had she become more beautiful since this morning?
Yes.
No.
Definitely yes.
She looked up at him, her cheeks flushed. Was she cold? Maybe his suit jacket would fit over her coat? If only he had a blanket. Maybe he-
"H-hi," she said.
He swallowed.
"Hi."
"It's good to see you again, after so long." Makoto was a terrible actress.
So cute.
"Right," he couldn't quite suppress his smile. "I hope you've been having a good week so far."
She lips parted briefly. It was hard not to focus on how soft and inviting they looked.
"Yes, it's been a very good week so far." Her head tilted down, but she maintained eye contact.
"That's-"
Toshima coughed loudly into her hand.
"As I was saying," her voice was louder than necessary. "Like most places, this one has a two-year lease."