The Dinner Party    

Ren didn't comment. He was thinking about his plans. Now that Pii was known and discovered, there was no going back.

Sooner or later, everyone would know that he was Ren. Like he always said to himself, 'There's no secret that remained secret.' This saying saved him countless times in the past. It allowed him to prepare for future troubles. To not be safe in his comfort zone and always be alert to what may come his way.

"By the way," Elena nudged Ren, "You didn't tell me that you have a very cute pet." She scratched little Pii's chin, and the latter purred under her caress.

"Pii, was it? An amazing pet. Would you–"

"Pii isn't for sale," Ren cut her off.

Elena pouted. "I haven't even said anything."

"I know the meaning of that glint in your eyes and that concerning grin on your lips."

Elena made a face. "How rude. I was just going to ask that . . . if you can lend . . ."