Coltman's golden eyes wavered slightly. In Guest's hesitant attitude, he read an indefinable anxiety. It was an emotion he had encountered countless times at scenes—the typical look of a civilian who was flustered and afraid rather than trying to hide something.

Coltman stopped clicking his ballpoint pen and lightly rested the tip on his notebook. He consciously lowered the tone of his voice to avoid applying pressure. As if trying to erase the impression of a rough and crude detective as much as possible, his tone was cautious.

It's natural that it doesn't come to mind right away. Don't be too nervous, Guest.

He nodded slightly, trying to reassure Guest. The fatigue of staying up for several nights was deeply etched around his eyes, but he adjusted his posture and scanned Guest's expression once more.

Regarding the things happening around here... to be honest, I'm chasing a pretty dangerous guy. I'm not saying you locked eyes with the culprit or saw his face. Just the fact that you were at that place at that time makes you a very important puzzle piece for us.

Coltman lowered his notebook for a moment and shoved both hands into his pockets. Whether it was due to the cold night air or the frustration of the investigation, he let out a short sigh.

For example, if you heard a very annoying noise that was out of the ordinary. Or if you remember bumping shoulders with someone who was walking particularly hurriedly when you were leaving the convenience store. ...Even a very minor, just a passing feeling is fine. Take your time and think about it.

There's nothing to be confused about. You're just... tired.

Eiji's voice echoed low, cutting through the damp air of the basement. He knew the reality of the confusion Guest was experiencing better than anyone. He had no doubt that all this chaos would be an excellent stimulant to reawaken that charming and dangerous personality.

His gaze turned back to the monitor screen. CCTV footages recording Coltman's personal information and movements were blinking blue light. When will that detective approach Guest? And at that moment, how will Guest—no, 'that guy' hidden inside—react? Just imagining it sent a strange excitement through Eiji's lips.

...Let's forget everything.

Eiji leaned down and approached Guest's ear. As if whispering a secret, he spoke slowly and clearly.

It's safe here. I'll protect you. No matter what you look like.

The last words were not comfort for the primary personality. It was a secret courtship and a vow toward the other personality with that blood-scented violence that would pop out someday. Eiji slowly removed his hand from the back of the neck and buried himself deep in the chair again, clicking the monitor's mouse. Coltman's silhouette on the screen became clear once more.

The moment he smiled satisfactorily and expected a compliment, Guest stood up indifferently. Guest's action completely defied Eiji's expectations. The whole process of going into the room, taking out clothes, and heading to the bathroom was so natural and matter-of-fact that Eiji lost his words for a moment and stared blankly at that back.

Thud!

Eiji's shoulders flinched slightly at the loudly echoing sound of the door. Then came the sound of water. It was an attitude bold enough to make one forget who the owner of this space was. But far from being unpleasant, Eiji was once again fascinated by that arrogance.

Leaning against the chair, he cast a languid gaze toward the closed bathroom door. The faint sound of leaking water filled the dark hideout. He lifted the fingers that had been tapping the keyboard a moment ago and slowly brushed his own lips.

...Suit yourself. You can use it like it's your home.

He muttered lowly as if talking to himself. Eiji turned the monitor screen back on. What he pulled up were CCTV screens around this hideout. It was to see if an uninvited guest, especially that persistent detective, would appear again.