“I—” Whatever he’d been about to say died in his throat as the detective’s words rang through his mind and all he could do was stare, surprised and, honestly, shocked speechless by what he’d just heard. Did Hakuba really think—?
A frown settled on the thief’s face, whatever hint of that playful grin and teasing expression that had resided there earlier now completely gone. “While I admit that I did think of this as a game, as just something…fun to do, and something to tease the others about later… Not everything is a game to me, detective.”
Far from it.
“And if I— if this hurt you, somehow, then I do apologize. That wasn’t my intention. Not at all.”
Frown deepening further, indigo eyes turned back to lock onto the blonde, serious. “Stop insulting yourself, Hakuba. You’re a good person. You’re kind, more than clever, hard-working, sweet, cute, stubborn, attractive, and I know that so many people would count themselves lucky if you even so much as sneezed their way.”
“I know I would.”
It hurt to hear those things from him. Every one of them kind and desperately needed; like kibble for a starving dog. Each one stabbing at a twisted gut but unwilling to stop lapping at what was offered.
“You’re very clever with your words, Kaitou-san, and they serve you well. But silver tongued as I am, myself, I’m having a difficult time believing it. Surely you know that you could have me if you wanted me.”
A sigh.
“…who am I kidding? I’ve no right to be upset. My apologies, Kaitou-san. I didn’t mean to ruin your activity.” He forced a smile, but it was pathetic.