Interview goes south

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The soft morning light streamed through the apartment windows as Kai buttoned up his suit jacket, feeling the subtle weight of his new position as the Number One Hero. Being at the top came with responsibilities, one of which was the interviews he now had to navigate. Today, he had agreed to a private interview with an old friend, Taneo Tokuda—a journalist who had always been fair and supportive in his reporting.

Kai glanced at his wristbands, a thoughtful gift from Melissa. She had mentioned she'd made some "adjustments" to his suit, though he wasn't entirely sure what that meant yet. The wristbands fit perfectly, seamlessly integrated into the design of his hero attire. Smiling to himself, he thought about how lucky he was to have such supportive people in his life.

As he adjusted his tie and prepared to leave, a small noise caught his attention. Turning toward the hallway, he saw Eri standing at her bedroom door, clutching her stuffed bunny to her chest. Her wide, curious eyes peeked out from behind her doorframe, her hair slightly messy from sleep.

Kai approached her, his footsteps quiet against the floor. Kneeling down to her level, he gave her a warm smile. "Eri, couldn't sleep?" he asked gently, his voice soft and soothing.

Eri hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "I woke up, and... I heard you moving around," she admitted, her voice small. "Are you leaving already, Kai?"

Kai's expression softened further, and he reached out to ruffle her hair lightly. "Just for a little while. I have an interview to do this morning, but I'll be back before you know it," he said. "Did you have a bad dream?"

Eri shook her head. "No, I just... I wanted to see you before you left." She looked down at her bunny, clutching it tighter. "You're really busy now. Are you going to have time for us?"

Kai's heart clenched at her words, and he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Of course, Eri. No matter how busy I get, I'll always have time for you. You're my family," he said firmly. "Being Number One doesn't change that."

Eri looked up at him, her eyes brightening slightly. "Promise?" she asked, holding out her pinky.

Kai chuckled softly and hooked his pinky around hers. "I promise," he said with a smile. "Now, how about you go back to bed for a little while longer? I'll make sure we do something fun when I get back."

Eri nodded, her worries eased by his words. "Okay. Be safe, Kai."

"I will," Kai replied, standing back up. He gave her one last smile before heading to the door. As he left the apartment and stepped into the early morning light, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.

Kai stared at the sleek design of his new suit as it materialized around him, the transformation seamless and almost futuristic. The black and silver detailing gave the outfit a refined yet powerful look, accentuating every line and angle. His eyes caught the reflection of his own astonished face in the mirror as he lifted his wrist to inspect the wristbands Melissa had designed. A message engraved on one of them read: "For every version of you."

As he turned his wrist slightly, the suit shifted with a soft mechanical hum, morphing into a sharp formal version. The transition was so fluid it felt like magic. The suit now resembled a tailored black tuxedo with subtle hero motifs, still retaining its underlying strength and functionality. The perfect blend of style and utility.

Kai laughed in disbelief, his hand running through his hair as he admired the work. "She really thought of everything," he murmured, shaking his head.

A warm smile spread across his face as he took in the craftsmanship and care that Melissa had poured into the design.

He pressed the button again, watching as the suit reverted to its hero form. "I really do have the best girlfriend in the world," he said to himself, the pride and affection clear in his voice.

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