Imprint

ACT I - Part V

Work goes surprisingly well. I have felt extra refreshed, rested, and even charismatic. So charismatic, in fact, that even though I was late, my presentation of the information of O'kane Investment's supporting evidence impressed the partners. Sure, I got scolded for being late, but since it was the only time I've ever done that, they were lenient.

"Mr. Kaito, that presentation was very in-depth. In fact, we plan to use it word for word when we go for the plea bargain. There's a chance we can come to a simple settlement. Excellent work!" Mr. Seigi, one of the owners, approaches me after the meeting. He's an excellent lawyer, and he and his brother have really made a name for themselves in the courtroom.

"Thank you, sir." We shake hands and I head back to my office, I begin working on a different case right away. There's never an end to all of this... If I could do more courtroom cases, I'd be happier with just being an associate. However, I have yet to get that chance - we are too good at plea bargains. One day, I hope.

It's not until the late afternoon when I finally sit up with a stretch. At least this new case is more interesting than the O'kane one. That reminds me of Leo. I pull his business card out of my pocket and look at it. It's actually a really nice card. I fiddle with it for a moment, admiring the shiny lettering.

"He did say to call him..." I pull out my phone and tap on his contact information. It rings for only a few seconds before I hear his familiar voice.

"Hello?"

"Hi Leo, it's me - Kaito."

"I'm glad you called!" He sounds excited, and it makes me smile. "But, if I remember correctly, you said I could call you by your first name."

"That's true, you can. Sorry, force of habit."

"Awesome, that makes me really happy." I can almost hear his smile through the phone. "Do you want to see a movie tomorrow? It's Saturday, so I hope you're free." I glance at my calendar.

"I'm free, want to meet there?"

"Actually, can I pick you up?"

"Not gonna say no to a free ride, sure. What time do you want me to be ready?"

"11am?"

"I'll see you then," we're quiet for a moment, unsure of what else to say. "Umm, how's work?"

We end up talking for almost an hour as I walk home (not wanting to end the call to take the train). He's really easy to talk to, he laughs at my jokes and keeps the conversation going with good questions. Other than Hito, I don't really have anyone I talk to. I find myself opening up to him a little more and not feeling anxious about it. When we finally hang up, I'm happy. As an introvert, people can be really exhausting - but Leo feels like an exception.

Later that night, when I'm back at my apartment, I decide to call Hito.

"Hito!" I shout as soon as he answers the phone, "You won't believe what happened!"

"It better be good for you to call at this hour..."

"This is of a Leo caliber."

"No way, what happened?" I can hear him sit up.

"Well..." I fill him in with everything, only leaving out a few slightly extra embarrassing details he doesn't need to know. "So? What do you think? I'm going to see him again tomorrow."

"Aki, in every stretch of the word, YES , you should see him again. Look, I say this as your best friend and also doctor, Leo sounds honestly like a great guy. He made sure he had your consent and did not assume he was invited in. Treated you to dinner, made sure you got home safe, and is strong enough to hold back and practice safe sex - no thanks to you," I roll my eyes at that. "If you are asking my opinion like this, however, you must be feeling a little unsure. What scares you most about this relationship?"