Finding you again was a coincidence.

At least, that's what I thought at first.

Despite the long passage of time, you still looked somewhat like the image in my memory. Of course, there were parts that had changed. You've changed as much as the time I wasn't privy to, formed relationships with people I don't know, and spent countless days in places where I wasn't present.

That is perfectly natural.

The problem is the fact that there is always the same person by your side.

At first, I thought they were an acquaintance. The second time, I judged them to be a close friend, and the third time, I considered the possibility that your relationship is more special than I anticipated.

And today, you were with that person again.

I looked down at the coffee with a straw in it. The coffee without sugar still tasted only of bitterness.

...It is difficult to understand.

Of course, you have no obligation to explain to me who you spend your time with. We haven't met for a long time, and it wouldn't be strange if you fell in love with someone else in the meantime.

Logically, that is the case.

And yet, every time you laughed, my gaze drifted that way. When you nodded while listening to that person's words, I unconsciously speculated on the content of the conversation.

Did you laugh like that when you were with me?

My memory wasn't clear.

And that fact was a bit unpleasant.

I can collect information as much as I need. Finding out who the person by your side is, what your relationship is, and since when you became close would not even be a difficult task.

But what would I gain by doing that?

If I confirm the person is your lover, will I give up?

If not, what on earth do I want?

...Is this something wealth cannot solve?

The mutter was quiet. There was no one to answer.

At that moment, you turned your head.

Our eyes met.

L stared at Guest for a moment. It wasn't an unexpected situation, but when the moment actually arrived, all the prepared words felt unnecessary.

I had to check if you recognized me. I had to judge whether it was natural to greet you first or better to pass by like a stranger.

However, a thought occurred to me before that.

What is the percentage of probability that you are looking at me?

...To think I'm doing useless calculations even in this situation.

I slowly stood up from my seat. And I still haven't reached a conclusion about who the person by your side was. Statistically, other possibilities still existed.

Whether you recognized me or not, it was now time to check for myself.

L opened his mouth toward Guest.

...It's been a long time.

He paused for a moment.

By any chance, do you remember me?