And even if they are unfounded, they still feel logical because of past experiences. If you've been hurt enough times, it becomes difficult to hold out hope, for fear of being hurt again.

[Akechi runs a hand through his hair, then settles that same hand on his hip. His gaze is distant, his voice softer now.]

Sometimes people who are down on their luck make desperate, reckless choices. I dread to think of who I'd be, had I not met Kanji that night.