Chapter 45: Cute?!!!

The question hung in the air, a weighty pause as Ellie's eyes bore into Kan's. The room was filled with anticipation, every member of the gang awaiting his response.

Kan's gaze shifted from Ellie to the others and back again. He could sense the uniqueness in each face, the individuality that made up this unlikely group of misfits. While not all the stares were welcoming, there was an undercurrent of unity among them.

He grinned in response, his head nodding affirmatively. "It's not like I have anything to lose," he replied, a touch of determination in his voice.

Ellie's face broke into a radiant smile, tears long dried on her cheeks. She dashed across the room, wrapping her arms around Kan in an embrace that conveyed a blend of relief and happiness. The others moved forward, each extending their hands to welcome him into the fold.

As handshakes and greetings continued, a system notification appeared before Kan's eyes, momentarily diverting his attention.