“Thank you,” he sighed, relief washing over him. Maybe he had expected Hakuba to question it or even to disagree with the terms. His open understanding of the idea was the best outcome possible.
Though he couldn’t say that he was fully trustworthy just yet, he did know that Hakuba was an honorable guy and an exceptional detective despite his one-track-mind. And who knew? Perhaps Hakuba had gotten past his flaws since the last time they met. Everyone had the ability to advance.
Look at how far Hattori had come.
Regardless, Shinichi smiled at him with gratitude. Even though he seemed nervous, he figured that it was probably Hakuba’s curiosity. He had wanted to talk to him after all.
“I appreciate your silence,” he added. “It’ll make it a lot easier if we run into anyone.“
Hakuba, the detective with no flaws whatsoever, nodded at the other, likewise flawless, detective, and continued onward sheepishly. No, the foreigner wasn’t sinister, just a helpless fanboy.
"Of course,” he said again, agreeing, which he hoped would not come off too strongly. “I have to admit that I’m intensely curious, but I won’t press. Ah, that said, might I ask if you intend to officially join the force when you’re finished with studies, or will you be opening your own agency?”
Kind of a leap there, but okay.