IN THE SILENCE OF an empty karaoke room, I waited for him. During that time, I glanced at the grape juice on the table and imagined myself spilling it all over him.
If the juice doesn't catch his attention, I planned on doing it.
He'll probably notice though, so I won't do it.
If I kept on setting traps for him, his guard would only increase.
Then he showed up, looking stupidly serious.
"None of your lackeys are around today, huh?"
"Well, ain't that a surprise. You wanted things to get lively up in here or something?"
"I was just thinking that if Ibuki or Ishizaki were here, then they would've been able to do something about this tense atmosphere."
He didn't change his expression at all, even when he was talking to me.
It was infuriating how composed he was.
"You sure are spewing quite a lot of shit being the one who called me out here."
"Well, you're right."
"Well, it's fine. I was thinking of contacting you myself this time. I'll let it slide."
It had saved me time.
"If that's the case, it seems we'll be discussing similar topics."
I gestured Ayanokōji to sit as I started the conversation.
"Don't be shy, sit down."
"I'd prefer to refrain if possible. Are you planning on pouring grape juice on me this time?"
Tch, so he noticed it after all?
I decided not to do anything at this point.
"You're reading too much into it. Besides, you could avoid it anytime if you wanted, right?"
While continuing this pointless conversation, I was preparing to speak my true intentions in front of Ayanokōji.
There was something I had to tell this man.
Staking my progress on the battle with Sakayanagi wasn't a big deal.
What mattered was what came after—making him acknowledge me based on my results.
It wouldn't be bad to employ any means necessary for that.
However, this time that would be a hindrance.
"I'll show you and Sakayanagi what my serious effort looks like. It's not like me, but I'll overpower her fair and square."
Whos potential was greater needed to be made clear.
That was the most important thing.
For that reason, the vow made here would take on significant meaning. I had to convey my true, undeniable intentions in preparation for the revenge that awaited against Ayanokōji.