Prominent Weakness
Catching the visible lamentation written on my face, Marika tilted her head in wonder. She stared at me with narrowed eyes as though she was trying to pinpoint an answer somewhere on my face.
“What do you mean, Ruki-kun?”
I shook my head and put on a smile to assure her. And since it wasn’t going to be a secret to them if I truly walked that path, I told her what was in my head.
.
“I was thinking of resolving our conflict with him through negotiation. You know. I thought of talking him down until he gives up on you so as not to trouble a lot of people if ever he drags his or your family in our conflict. I realized how foolish of an idea it is to begin with. We’ve already hurt his pride. He won’t simply surrender to me.”
“Ruki-kun, must I remind you what you told me? We’re in this together. Never hesitate to talk to me about it.” Marika cupped my face, appearing a little dismayed.
Faced with her imploring eyes, I couldn’t help but wryly smile.