As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this. Secondhand embarrassment ahead.
After finishing dinner, I had some free time and so I decided to help Roger with his research.
As I descended the stairs leading to the basement like usual, I heard two people talking and stopped in my tracks.
(Roger and…Harrison?)
Their expressions were so serious that I couldn’t find the right time to call out to them.
Harrison: …In such a bad shape?
Roger: Yeah. Heard from experts that it can’t be returned to its original state.
Spine’s so wrecked and can’t stand without support.
Harrison: So caught up in research that you can’t even take care of yourself. What a laugh.
…Could’ve done something about it if it was caught sooner.
(What does he mean…? Roger, are you in such a bad state that you can’t stand…?)
He looked fine last night while happily drinking.
(But…there are some illnesses out there that are invisible)
(Was he self-destructing by drinking so much because he couldn’t save himself…?)
Roger: Well, I’ll see what I can do for now. I got a reputation of not being a quitter.
Just gotta hang in there ‘til the end. If you can’t…then we’ll deal with it when the time comes.
As I secretly peeped at them, I saw Roger give a weak smile.
(Roger’s body really is wrecked…)
(He couldn’t have been lying if Harrison’s there…)
I couldn’t bring myself to say anything and quietly left before they could notice.
–
(I wasn’t aware that Roger’s condition was that bad…)
(But now that I know…I can change my behavior)
(Tomorrow, I’ll do my best to support Roger so that he doesn’t suffer)
The day after learning about Roger’s condition, I secretly made a decision. I’ll immediately start helping him out.
–
Kate: Here, Roger. Open your mouth please.
After cutting the meat on the plate into bite-sized pieces, I held it up to Roger’s mouth.
Roger: …? I can eat by myself, lil’ lady.
Kate: Please don’t overwork yourself! I’ll be supporting you throughout your life!
Roger: The hell’s gotten into you?
Roger tried to stand up with a puzzled look on his face, and I rushed to stop him.
Kate: Ah, please don’t force yourself to stand!
Roger: I just wanna get a drink…
Kate: I’ll get it for you!
I stood up instead and got Roger a glass of water.
Kate: Here you go Roger.
Roger: Thanks…
Alfons: Good grief…Stop worrying about that muscle-headed, research-obsessed idiot and feed me, little robin?
Kate: …You’re feeling fine, aren’t you Alfons? You don’t need help, do you?
Alfons: I’m certainly feeling rather energized this morning, however…
With the way you’re speaking…You make it sound as if Roger’s not well.
Kate: …
I became depressed as I thought back to yesterday’s conversation.
Roger: …Lil’ lady?
Kate: I heard it yesterday. The conversation between you and Harrison…
That your body was so wrecked that you couldn’t stand…!
Roger: Hm? That’s…
Alfons: Oh? I knew you wouldn’t live long but is it finally time to kick the bucket?
Roger: …
At the question, Roger exchanged glances with Harrison and then let out a sigh.
Roger: …Everyone’s gonna wind up six feet under eventually. It just depends on when.
(If you’re not denying it, then it’s true…?)
Kate: Please don’t talk about giving up like that…!
I may not understand your condition, but I’ll be supporting you from today onward!
Roger: That’s helpful. Well I got some research I’d like you to help me with now…
Kate: Please leave it to me!
–
I was helping Roger out with his research like he’d asked and it was approaching midnight.
Roger: It’s getting late. Why don’t you get back to your room, lil’ lady?
Kate: What about you?
Roger: …I’ll get some rest too.
Kate: Liar. You’re going to keep working, aren’t you?
When I glared at Roger for that impromptu lie, he just shrugged.
Roger: …I got some interesting data so I wanna work on it for a bit longer.
Kate: It’s not like the data’s going anywhere tomorrow and the numbers won’t change.
Take it easy and look after yourself.
I forced Roger out of his chair and onto an infirmary bed.
Roger: Are you planning on helping me not just today, but the next day onward too?
Kate: Yes. I’m worried about your health so that’s my intention.
Roger: Heh, your thoughts never fail to surprise me. You’d agree to anything I’d ask you right now, wouldn’t you?
Kate: Is there anything else you want me to do?!
Roger asked me to help with his research today, but…that’s just an extension of how I usually help him.
(If I could do anything for Roger since he’s not physically well…I’d do it)
Roger: Yeah…How about this.
Kiss me.
Roger grabbed my hand as he sat up in bed.
(Why a kiss…ah)
(If you don’t feel well, then you’ll feel even more lonely or hopeless…)
No doubt the kiss wouldn’t have any special feeling behind it…rather, it’d just be some physical contact to fill the loneliness.
(Roger’s selfishly kissed me numerous times before)
(No point in rejecting him at this point)
(More importantly, I’d like to help Roger when I can…)
Because I’m standing, I don’t have to go on my tiptoes to kiss him today.
To keep it from getting in the way,I tucked my hair behind my ear with the hand not being held by Roger.
Kate: Nn…
I gave Roger a light peck.
Though it was just a brief, I filled Roger’s heart with all the compassion I could muster.
Roger: Ha…it’s still not enough.
Roger tugged hard on the hand he was holding.
Kate: …Oof
Roger was pushed down onto the bed as he pulled me toward him.
Kate: A-are you alright?! Does it hurt anywhere?
Roger: Nothing hurts so just leave it. That aside, do it again.
Kate: …
At his begging, I pushed Roger down and kissed him again.
This time, his hand went up to the back of my head to keep me from pulling away too soon.
Kate: Nn…haaa…
Roger’s tongue slid into my mouth and tangled with mine.
Breathtaking kisses were something Roger had shown me.
(I don’t know how many more kisses like this I’ll get…)
The thought of it made my heart ache…I continued to kiss Roger to make him happy.
Roger: …You’d really do anything, wouldn’t you?
Roger mumbled as our lips parted.
Roger: Do you do this with anyone you know is weak…?
(I tried to imagine it but…it’d be difficult to do this with anyone but Roger)
(Roger’s touched me before, so it’s a different set of obstacles from others…I think)
Kate: I think it’s normal to want to do things for someone who’s suffering.
Roger: …If that’s the case, then I can’t just go quietly.
Kate: …Huh?
Roger: Who’ll take care of Crown when I’m gone?
They could call in a doctor from the outside, but it’d be hard to respond at my speed.
And if that does happen, you’d have a lot of weak men lying around you.
Don’t wanna put you in a situation where you’d be compassionate toward weak men besides me.
(Are you saying this to protect me…? But…)
Kate: But even if you say that, your body’s already…
Roger: Ah…Think it’s time I cleared up this misunderstanding.
Kate: Misunderstanding…?
Roger: That conversation you heard between Harrison and me was actually about—
~~ Flashback ~~
Roger: …?
Harrison: What’s up?
Roger: Nothing, just heard the lil’ lady’s footsteps…But she turned back.
Harrison: She probably read the air when she saw how serious we looked.
Roger: We weren’t talking about anything important so she could’ve just come in.
Harrison: Not important…Roger, do you really understand the value of this book?
It’s a book signed by Edgar Allan Poe and it got ruined by chemicals…!
The spine’s falling apart and the chemical’s made the text fade so much it’s unreadable.
It couldn’t even stand on its own when I put it on a bookshelf…
Roger: It was a gift, but I got so caught up in my research that I got careless.
Harrison: *sigh*...This is why people only interested in research are nothing but trouble.
~~ End flashback ~~
Roger: So…It wasn’t me that got wrecked but a book.
Kate: Really…?
Roger: Yeah, really. As you can see, I’m healthy as a horse.
Sorry for playing around with you without clearing it up right away. Thought it’d be a good excuse to get you to help with some research.
I’ll take all your complaints.
Kate: Y-you’re the worst!!
With a singular curse, I ran out and to my room.
After closing the door, I collapsed on the spot.
Kate: That’s a relief…
At least Roger isn’t dying…!
Feeling relieved, uncontrollable feelings spilled out in the form of tears.
I ran from Roger because I didn’t want him to see me cry.
Roger’s voice: …Lil’ lady.
Roger’s voice could be heard from out in the hallway.
Kate: W-what is it? I’m mad at you right now…!
Roger’s voice: I wanna apologize, so open the door.
Kate: Don’t want to…
Roger’s voice: That so. …With the lie I told, I don’t blame you.
I thought Roger would give up once I refused him, but he showed no signs of leaving.
Kate: Um…You’re not going back to your room?
Roger: I’m gonna wait ‘til you open the door for me.
(If you say that, then i have no choice but to open the door…)
I wiped my eyes and opened the door.
Roger: …
Kate: D-did you by chance…hear anything when I came back to my room?
Roger’s curse gave him supernatural hearing.
“At least Roger isn’t dying…”
If he heard me say that as I cried, then my angry act would be all for nothing.
Roger: No? Didn’t hear anything.
Anyway, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have let that misunderstanding about my life go that far.
Kate: …
…You said you lied to get me to help you.
So why the kiss?
Roger: You were worrying so much over taking care of me that it was endearing.
I wanted to dote on you.
Kate: That wasn’t doting?! I’d call that making things difficult for me!
Roger: Really? I always thought you enjoyed the kisses.
If I got the wrong idea then sorry. Let’s try again to be sure.
Kate: Why are you always taking things in that direction! Do you even actually feel sorry at all?
Roger: I think so…Sorry.
Roger’s sudden, touching apology distracted me from my anger.
Roger: I won’t lie to you anymore.
If me living longer makes you happy, then I’ll do just that.
Kate: I-I knew it. You did hear what I said when I got back to my room!
Roger: Whoops, that’s right. I didn’t hear a thing.
Kate: If you’re going to lie, then go through with it…!
Roger: Pfft…Haha.
Kate: …What are you laughing at?
Roger: Though I love how you look when you cry, I think I also love the way you yell with so much energy.
Sorry for worrying you the whole day.
Roger roughly patted my head.
As I begrudgingly looked up at him, I realized that my heart was racing again.
(Roger already heard me say that I was relieved that he wasn’t going to die, but…)
(...I hope he doesn’t notice the sound of my heart racing as he pats my head)
// - is an alternate translation
T/N: ignore my changing translation style, trying different things out to see what works. Also these translations aren’t accurate so the official translation will most likely be different
T/N: Gave up on trying to fix the images
"I want you to kiss me."
The moment I entered the room and pleaded with Will, he gave me exactly what I desired.
After sitting on the bed together, Will traced my palate with his gentle tongue, and my body trembled with joy.
However,
William: ...
Suddenly, Will stopped kissing, and my body, left hanging, throbbed with a sense of longing.
Kate: Will?
William: For someone who pleaded for a kiss with such intensity, you seem distracted, Kate.
Kate: N-no, it's just...
William: Can't focus on kissing me, got some other 'business' on your mind?
Kate: No, it's not that! There's no other business... but...
I hesitated to tell him about the unfortunate incident.
(...Oh, but sooner or later, Will will find out.)
(Given Will's nature, he might already know... maybe he's deliberately asking to hear it from my mouth.)
Above all, because I want to face Will with a free and unburdened heart, I decided to confess today's events.
Kate: Actually...
William: ...'Kissed by a stranger'?
Kate: Yes, on my way back from today's mission, I was confronted... unable to escape it, just once.
The man I encountered on the roadside seemed drunk, persistently bothering me.
No matter how clearly I rejected him, he forcibly took my hand and brought his lips close.
Kate: Harrison and Liam, who came later, managed to drive him away, so there were no further consequences.
Kate: But... I can't forgive myself for allowing anyone other than Will to touch me.
I washed my hands repeatedly when I got home, to the point where my skin felt irritated.
Yet, the disgust from being touched couldn't be completely washed away, tormenting me.
Kate: ...I want to dedicate my life to Will as his servant.
Kate: My body and heart exist for Will alone, and I don't want to surrender them to anyone else. But... I allowed a kiss, and I regret it.
Feeling frustrated with myself, my fingertips trembled as I tightly clenched my fist on my knee.
William: Did you plead for a kiss to forget?
Kate: Yes... I'm sorry. I made you deal with my own issues.
William: No need to apologize. The one at fault is the man who forced himself on you, isn't it?
Will took my hand firmly and laid a kiss on the palm.
(...I heard somewhere that a kiss on the palm is a plea.)
Not something taken by force, but a kiss filled with respect, like showing that I have value worth pleading for. It warmed my heart.
(Even without using the cursed ability, Will's words have a mysterious power.)
(The inability to resist, the discomfort from being touched, all slowly melted away...)
The man who forcibly approached me is the only one at fault, and I finally forgave myself.
Kate: ...Thank you, Will.
William: Just stating the obvious. Now, there's nothing to cloud your mind, right?
Kate: ...Can I ask for a little selfishness?
Kate: I want you to kiss me. Many times, enough to make today's events fade away.
In truth, my heart is already healed with the words Will gave me.
I won't even notice if that man passes by me in the city; Will must understand my inner thoughts.
(So this is just... an invitation, a line used just to kiss my lover.)
William: If you wish, as much as you want.
With a seductive smile, Will embraced me from behind.
Kate: Will...?
In this position, isn’t it difficult for our lips to meet?
I tried to turn around, calling his name in confusion, but
William: Stay like this.
I was restrained, and a kiss was dropped behind my ear.
Will's tongue crawled along the curve, making a wet sound.
Kate: ...Ah, n-no.
William: Kate... don't suppress your voice.
William: After hearing it so many times, there's nothing embarrassing about it now, is there?
Kate: But... to feel so much from just the ear... isn't it strange?
Just being embraced from behind and kissed on the ear, warmth accumulated inside my body.
William: It's not strange. Kate, it's cute how you react so honestly to your feelings.
Will lightly nibbled on my ear, and his tongue slid into my ear canal.
William: Mmm... haah...
Kate: Mm... ah... haah...
Trying to endure the sweet throbbing, I hugged the cushion tightly against my knees.
William: ...Should have changed the position.
Kate: Eh...?
William: If our bodies were facing the other way, you would have clung to me, right?
Kate: Hehe... it's like you're jealous of the cushion.
William: I can get jealous. I can't catch you as softly as a cushion.
// I get jealous too. Softly catching you like a feather is something my body can't do.
As Will joked, I couldn't help but laugh.
(Normally, if someone is jealous, it would be of a person, not a cushion, right?)
(I can't imagine Will being jealous, but that's okay.)
Will's jealousy will probably remain forever unexplored, and that's fine.
As long as we understand that we love each other more than anyone else, there's no need for jealousy.
Releasing the cushion that became the target of jealousy, I faced Will directly.
William: Do you know this saying?
William: A kiss on the hand is a kiss of respect. On the forehead, a kiss of friendship. On the cheek, a kiss of satisfaction.
William: On the lips, a kiss of love. On closed eyes, a kiss of admiration/yearning. On the palm, a kiss of pleading.
William: On the arm and neck, a kiss of desire... any other kiss is considered 'madness,' according to the whims of the poet.
Kate: I heard this in a play once. It was titled 'Kiss,' wasn't it?
Will nodded and pulled me close again.
William: When I remembered this poem, I thought of choosing one and giving it to you, Kate... but I decided against it.
William: Narrowing down my feelings for you to just one is more challenging than any mission.
Kate: ...In that case, give me all of them.
William: Of course. That's the plan.
William: Whether you're ready to accept all those emotions... there's no need to ask.
As if engraving all the emotions into me, Will continued to kiss me following the poem.
Liam: Mission complete! ...Although, we probably didn't need to come. Will pretty much took care of everything.
Harrison: The illegal organization has been completely wiped out. Whether the headcount matches or not, let's count the bodies.
Liam: Okay! 1, 2, 3, 4... 4?
Liam: ...Huh? Hey, Harry, doesn't this guy look familiar from somewhere?
Harrison: Even if you say he looks familiar... His face is all messed up, isn't it impossible to identify him?
Liam: Hmm... this build, the shape of the head, that plain-patterned shirt... I feel like I've seen him somewhere, though...
Liam: ...Ah, got it! This is the guy who was pestering Kate not too long ago!
Liam: You know, grabbed her hand forcibly, made a loud smooching sound, kissed her forcefully!
Harrison: Oh yeah, I remember now. That guy...
Liam: Will, you didn't say anything when you saw the target's information. But did you know about him?
Harrison: Knowing Will, he probably planned this method of killing, right?
The man had used a knife to cut off his own lips, leaving a gruesome sight.
Liam: Kate, you're loved.
Harrison: To speak of love in this situation... not the best sight, I think...
Ellis Twilight — I Want to Know Every Inch of You Collection Event
Seperate Bodies 🔞 tw: suggestive, NSFW
I do not own any contents of Ikemen Villains. This story being uploaded in this blog belongs solely to CYBIRD. Please support them by downloading their games and buying their stories. Both English and Japanese are not my mother tongue languages, please keep in mind that there will be mistakes and added words for my own preferences. I translate for my personal entertainment and for my own practice only.
Victor asked me to take the Crown's physical measurements for the purpose of health management and research—
I visited Ellis, who was easy to ask first, and it turned out to be the right decision.
Thanks to his great cooperation, the measurements proceeded very quickly.
Kate: “Thank you for your cooperation, Ellis. This concludes the measurement of your upper body."
Ellis: "That's good. By the way, Miss Kate, there's something I was curious about......"
Ellis: "Can you lend me a hand?"
Kate: "......? Yes, sure."
I held out my hand, wondering what he was going to do, and Ellis's hand came to rest on mine—
My hand was guided and touched his chest, which was bare…..for measurement.
I feel his moist skin all over my palm.
Ellis: ".….If you're interested in my body, you can touch it."
Kate: "Eh!? Uh, how.….”
Ellis: “Because I felt like I could feel your eyes piercing through me while you were measuring for my chest. ……Was it my misunderstanding?"
Kate: "You misunderstood..., there was nothing.”
Ellis looks slender when he's dressed, but when he takes his clothes off, he has an unexpectedly masculine body.
Although the measurements are taken seriously, I couldn't help but admire his thick chest and his well-defined abdominal muscles.
(I thought I was keeping a level head, but he knew.... How embarrassing……)
Ellis: “As much as you like, Miss Kate, go ahead.”
Kate: "E-Even if you ask me to go ahead….."
Even if I'm interested in touching another person's body, especially a man's body, my reservation and embarrassment will prevail.
(I know you're saying this for me, Ellis, but....I'll say no.)
I tried to take his hand away, saying It was fine if I didn’t touch him.
However, Ellis is holding my hand tighter than I imagined, and I can't get away from him even a little.
Ellis: "You don't have to hold back on me, so feel free to check with your hands."
You noticed I tried to take my hand away, your hands are literally so strong.
(If you've told me this much, it's not right to say no.….isn't it?)
(If I reject him excessively, then it seems like I'm being weirdly conscious of Ellis.....)
Deciding to accept the kindness, I slid my hand over his skin.
Kate: "....Muscles are softer than I thought. I thought it was harder."
Ellis: “When you're relaxed, yes. When you're exerting yourself, though, it gets harder......"
Kate: "Wow, that's amazing...!”
(Still, I think people are reluctant to have their skin touched...)
(Is Ellis used to being touched by other people…..?)
Even though the fun seems to rise, my heart is in turmoil at the defencelessness of Ellis, who let me touch him without any odd hesitation.
Ellis: "What's wrong?"
Kate: “Well......I was wondering if you do this to anyone who asks you to.”
Regret comes immediately after speaking out.
I knew Ellis was kind to everyone, but I speak as if I’m blaming him.
Ellis: “…..Don't worry, I didn't do anything that you would be worried about.”
The reply was ambiguous, as if it were an answer, but it wasn't.
I also notice a strange pause before the reply.
(What are the things that worry me? Have you ever let some else touches you, if only a little?…..)
Ellis's trivial words and actions have stuck with me, and I don't feel refreshed, as if a lees has settled in my mind.
(There's no reason to feel like this, but why am I.….)
Ellis: “If it still bothers you... Do you want to try touching somewhere else?”
Ellis: "....I really haven't shown this place to anyone, I haven't let anyone touch it."
Ellis: "Only for Miss Kate, special"
Kate: “Eh….”
Ellis pulled my hand again.
The hand that was touching his chest went down through his stomach.....and stop at his waist.
Kate: “….Ellis?”
Ellis: “No one touches it from here down, so go ahead.”
What Ellis is showing is below the bottoms... his lower body.
Kate: "Ah, uh..... This is not usually a place to let people touch, is it?"
Ellis: “What would you like to do, Miss Kate?”
Ellis: "Rather than normal or common sense, I want to do what you want to do."
Ellis: "I've been thinking about how to make you happy."
Even if that feeling of Ellis is one that is poured out without division to all.
I was the only one in his eyes right now.
Kate: "I, am......"
(......If there is a place on Ellis's body where only I am allowed, I want to touch it.)
The sweet sound of "special" made me forget to reply and my throat started to throb.
Ellis: ".....You can do whatever you want."
I finally gave a small nod as my gentle forgiveness.
Ellis: “Shall we proceed slowly? Let's start with........to the first joint of your finger."
Is Ellis pulling my hand, or am I proceeding with my own will? I don't know anymore.
My fingertips slip under his bottoms without any sense of reality, as if I were in a dream.
Ellis: "Second joint........”
Kate: “Ah.”
My advanced fingertips feel the rough texture of the skin. It's hot and humid inside.
Ellis: “Hmm. …..fufu, I’ve gone all the way in to the base of your fingers, haven't I?"
Ellis smiled like a child whose prank had succeeded.
Contrary to that innocence, I felt like I was doing something I shouldn’t...., I was scared.
Kate: "Uh, I guess..."
I came to my senses and pulled out my fingertips, grazing the deep part of him.
Ellis: “Nn…gh”
(……!)
Ellis: “Sorry..... I was so ticklish, I made a weird noise."
Kate: “N-no, it’s not….”
Ellis's sweet voice, which leaked a little, remains in my ears.
(The fact that I'm the only one who can touch Ellis here...)
(And that lovely voice I just heard, is that just for me?)
The thought of it is irresistibly lovely and makes me want to touch and listen to it again.
(But, as expected, no more...)
Ellis: "....More touches if you like, Miss Kate."
Taking my hesitant hand again, Ellis let me touch it through the bottoms.
Kate: “……Uh”
I gasped as I felt something passionately insisting on the area I touched.
Ellis: "This is what happened, so...I would like you to lend me a hand."
Kate: "B-but...I already had taken your body measurements.….”
I finally remember my job and give my opinion with a voice that seems to disappear.
Ellis: "Well then..... Do you want to check here with your hands? If it's a measurement, then there's no problem."
Kate: "...............I got it."
(It's just an extra of his body measurements, just to make sure......)
Like a butterfly lured by sweet nectar, I slipped my hand there again.
Ellis: “Ah... Haa….."
As I stroke him slowly while watching him, Ellis lets out a hot exhale of aggravation.
Ellis: “Miss, Kate…..”
(.....I'm weird. I can't take my eyes off him.)
He is so lovely, so cute, so disturbed by my hand that I want to see more of him.
Driven by the impulse, I moved my fingers with a strong and weak pressure so that Ellis could feel good.
Ellis: “……Nngh”
Kate: “Here…..is it?”
Ellis: "Nnm..... There, it feels good...."
His hips swayed loosely as he rubbed against my hand.
I was happy to know that I wasn't the only one who wanted to be touched.
(.....I want you to feel even better with my hand.)
At first, it was only my fingertips, but gradually I used the whole palm of my hand to wrap it up and continued to stimulate it.
Ellis: “……Nngh!”
Kate: "I-I'm sorry. Did I push too hard...?"
Ellis: “No... I'm fine. I just felt so good I was about to lose it."
Ellis: “You can touch me however you like. ....I'll make my place exclusive to you, Miss Kate."
(I, exclusive….)
The haze in my mind that I felt when I thought Ellis might have let someone else touched him cleared up.
(I see….. I wanted to monopolise you.)
(I didn't want anyone else to touch or see Ellis...that's what I thought)
If you know your feelings, there is only one thing to do.
As time permits, I continued to touch where only I was allowed and stare at Ellis, who exhaled shallowly.
Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors and inaccuracies. This is not a full translation.
This a fan translation so it is definitely not 100% accurate. I do not own anything related to Ikemen Villains. Support Cybird by buying their amazing stories!
In the aftermath on an incident involving a gang and the president of a trading company feared by the public,
The luxury liner Orellus is forced to make an emergency stop at a port that night in order to hand the gangsters over to the police.
Ellis smiled as the night breeze brought with it the smell of the sea.
Ellis: “Let me deal with the police. Jude, Kate, take it easy.”
Kate: “Thank you, Ellis.”
(Ellis, you really are very thoughtful…)
Jude walks away as soon as we leave Ellis.
Kate: “Ah, please wait… where are you going?”
Jude: “To get a proper drink.”
Kate: “Can I go with you too?”
Jude: “I dunno, that’s a bit much for a well-bred young lady don’t ya think?”
Kate: “…I think I’ll be fine as long as I don’t leave your side.”
Kate: “It seems there are rumors that you’re a ‘scary person who crushed a gang.’”
Jude: “…”
Jude: “Ye can follow me if ya want, but if we get separated, I won’t look for ya.”
Jude: “At best, ya can follow me around like a baby bird.”
(You really can’t have a calm conversation…)
I was annoyed by his sharp words, but I didn’t feel like turning on my heels.
I felt like Jude’s stride had slowed down a little.
(…I wonder if his body is okay after the fistfight he just had.)
(His shirt, it’s slightly torn… maybe there’s a place where a knife had grazed.)
Although I know there are no deep wounds or injuries, I am somewhat worried and glance sideways to check.
Jude: “…Ha…”
Kate: “…? What’s the matter?”
Jude: “What’s the matter with you? Ya—”
Townspeople meeting at the port: “In commemoration of the Orellus’ port of call, please have these flowers.”
At that moment, I suddenly heard a cheerful voice.
(Flowers…?)
The world’s largest luxury liner was moored at port, albeit, temporarily, and a large number of people were flocking to the port.
Passengers heading out to town seemed to be handed a welcome flower.
Townspeople meeting at the port: “May your encounter with this town be a wonderful one.”
Kate: “Ah, thank you…)
(For Jude, flowers…)
(I bet he’s frowning like crazy…)
However, Jude glanced sideways and quietly dropped hi seyes to the flowers.
(…Huh?)
For a moment, his gaze seemed transfixed.
His eyes suddenly turned towards me, and my heart skipped a beat.
Kate: “What is it…?”
Jude: “…Stay still.”
Jude stuck the flower in my hair near my ear.
His finger tips graze my ear, and my shoulders tremble unintentionally.
Kate: “…?...??”
(Did you give me a flower, Jude? Why?)
The faint, sweet fragrance of the flowers, and the man in front of me who has no trace of sweetness, are so unbalanced and confusing.
Jude: “…Just as I thought, it suits you.”
Jude: “It’s stupid. It suits you perfectly, doesn’t it?”
(…Huh!?)
The mocking sneer gripped my heart.
Kate: “Wh-what was that… it’s so stupid it’s perfect?”
Jude: “Is that what it means?”
Jude: “A flower that welcomes anyone like an idiot…”
Jude: “You, who follows me like an idiot.”
I was at a loss for words as his fingertips poked my collarbone.
His cold words and gaze seem to see right through my troubled heart and I can’t say anything.
Jude narrowed his eyes as if he’d caught me in a trap.
Jude: “I told ya I’d show ya pain, and you followed me here.”
Jude: “…What were ya expectin’?”
l—Flashback—
Jude: “If ya keep hanging around me, yer gonna get hurt worse than this.”
Jude: “…when ya do, show me that pretty face of yers.”
--End Flashback—
Kate: “You’re wrong…!”
Jude: “Did I bully you like ya were expectin’?”
The sadistic whisper sends a sweet shiver to the pit of my stomach, making me shiver violently.
Kate: “I’m…not…”
Kate: “I didn’t follow you with such expectations…”
I was worried about you, even though it was a minor injury. That’s all.
(Why…am I so nervous��?)
Jude’s eyes narrow even more when he sees that I can’t come up with an argument right away.
Jude: “Ah-ah… you shouldn’t show that face so easily, princess.”
Jude: “I was joking…but it looks like you want me to stop joking.”
Kate: “…you know…”
He grabbed my wrist and pulled me.
I tried to back away, but a hand around my waist held me in place, as if to say it wasn’t allowed.
Jude: “Do ya want me to hurt yer wrist like before?”
Jude: “Ah, or did it feel good to be tied around yer neck, like we did before?”
The hand that poked my chest now came up to my throat.
The amethyst eyes, staring at me from such a close distance, seemed to be full of heat despite his sneer.
Even though, I think it’s strange, I can’t help but feel my heart pounding.
(F-funny…)
(Something’s wrong with me…)
Jude: “Or…you want something more lewd.”
The hand wrapped around my waist smoothly crawls up my back.
A sweet tingling sensation welled up in my chest and I quickly pushed myself back.
Kate: “None of those are different…”
Jude: “…Fuha, yer desperate aren’t ya? Liar.”
Kate: “I’m not lying…!”
Jude: “Hmm, okay.”
Jude: “Well, if ya ever get tired of being stubborn, ye can always tell me.”
Jude: “I’ll play with ya in my spare time.”
Kate: “Oh, I don’t do that for fun.”
Jude: “Then, why don’t ya get serious.”
Kate: “Wha…”
Jude: “I have no intention of responding.”
Kate: “At least…Oh!”
The sea breeze from the port almost blows away the flower behind my ear, so I reflexively hold it with my hand.
(…why now?)
(I don’t want to lose it…you thought…)
(This kind of thing…it’s just a flower you gave me to tease and mess with me.)
Jude: “Like I said before, if ya get separated, yer on yer own.”
Kate: “Oh, wait a minute.”
Holding down the flower so it wouldn’t fly away, I run after him.
I couldn’t stop thinking about the look on his face when he laughed about how stupid it looked.
The story's in his POV. As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this
Nsfw. Awkwardly translated smut.
They say that something predestined, something that cannot be changed or avoided, is called fate.
Being born male, female, or otherwise.
Where and when you were born, how long you'll live and when you'll die, all of these seem to be predetermined.
I've always been looking for a way to fight against all of that.
--
Roger: Hey, Jude. Cut back on those cigarettes. You don't know when those lungs of yours will fail.
Jude: Quit yer yappin'. Are ya my mom or somethin'?
Roger: Don't remember givin' birth to an arrogant, swearing bastard like you.
As I walk away after finishing up Jude's regular check up, my ears pick up the hustle and bustle of the dining room.
Roger: Huh? They're bein' awfully noisy.
As expected, when I entered the dining room, I found Harrison listening to a distraught Liam.
Roger: Hey, what's up? Did somethin' happen?
Liam: Kate isn't back yet so I want to go look for her now.
(The little lady?)
Roger: Calm down... You're not gonna find anything if you run out in the dark.
Harrison: Yeah, Roger's right. You were the last one to see Kate, weren't you Liam?
Liam nods.
Jude: You were supposed ta be watchin' 'er. Why'd ya let 'er go about as she pleases?
Liam: Tomorrow's Roger's birthday so we went out shopping to celebrate in advance.
I thought about dressing up a bit and doing some stuff that'll surprise Roger.
Harrison: Liam, I now there's something you don't want to tell us, but now's not the time.
Liam: After we finished shopping, we parted ways near Leadenhall Market.
Kate told me to go home first because she wanted to buy something in secret.
Harrison: Where'd you and Kate part?
Liam: At a bakery called "Harmony". Around there.
Harrison: If it's around there then...flowers, huh?
Liam: Flowers?
Harrison: Did she go by herself to get flowers for Roger?
Roger: Me?
Harrison: Yeah. There's a popular flower shop in alley where Liam and Kate parted ways. She probably knew about it.
Jude, who was quiet this whole time, muttered something troubling.
Jude: Tha's right, there's been some strange incidents lately. The naïve princess must've gotten mixed up in it.
That woman (the queen) must 'ave some kind of info. Maybe.
Roger: I'll go get Victor...
--
There's been some kidnappings recently where Kate was now alone.
All those kidnapped were women, and those who were lucky enough to escape only had their hair cut, so it seems like they were kidnapped to sell their hair at a high price.
Based on the information from Victor, it was decided that Crown would search several hideouts of the criminals.
Harry and I ran through the back alleys of London in the dark.
Roger: ...? Hey, Harry. I can hear a man...and the faint voice of a woman through this door.
Harrison: May that's it. Let's go.
The man's voice gets clearer as we head down the path leading to the basement.
Men with guns and knives gathered in the dark.
(I see. So a bunch of thugs were kidnapping people)
Bearded man: After our watch is done, let's go for a drink- Huh, who're you?
In the dim light, Harrison and I exchanged glances. In times like this, a liar and traitor's quick thinking is useful.
Roger: Don't be so guarded. We're your buddies. We thought we'd take part too.
Bearded man: Huh? What're you on about? We'll lose our share with more people.
Harrison: Don't be like that. The police have been sniffing around lately.
Bearded man: The police...?
Harrison: We got contacts in the police. I got info on how to escape them.
Man with a gun: Hey... Wouldn't it be better if we brought them in?
Roger: Oh, we got a right to choose though. Let's hear some details about what you guys are doin'.
Bearded man: It's simple. You kidnap a woman to sell her hair and if she gets out of line, you kill her. That's it.
Man with a gun: In this day and age, a corpse has some value so it's like killing two birds with one stone.
(Yep, these are definitely the guys. Can't mess this-)
// is an alternate translation
----- are breaks i created to pace myself
T/N- first time adding pics so ignore how bad it might seem
hopefully the translation was good enough! ALSO storyteller/fairytale writer are the same in this story. i just forgot to change it. sorry about the repeat sentences, was rushing this
The dark night was my friend, and death was myself.
I will walk, walk and walk in the dark again today.
And suddenly, I look back.
See, there lies a blood-soaked, happy face of death.
Kate: Victor, Harrison lent me a book the other day. So.........
I handle my responsibilities/job, while Kate takes on the role of a storyteller.
Listening to Kate's stories while working together in the office is becoming a part of my daily routine.
(......You look like you’re having fun. Kate has become a full-fledged member of the Crown, hasn't she?)
Kate: Yes, that's right. It's about Marianne, the maid we discussed the other day.
Victor: Oh, in that case, give her some time off. It's important for her to meet her lover who is far away.
When I conveyed that the matter we discussed has been resolved, she blinked her eyes in surprise.
Kate: Victor, when do you sleep…?
Victor: When?
Kate: I understand you have an overwhelming amount of work. It seems like something I could never handle.
Kate: Even so, you promptly addressed the matter I consulted you about...
Victor: Oh~ Could it be that you're complimenting me? Well, that makes me happy!
Victor: But, unfortunately, even I need to sleep, and as a human, there's a limit to time.
//But unfortunately I sleep, and as long as I'm human, my time is limited.
Victor: Your consultation held an exceptionally high priority, you know.
Kate: …..Thank you, Victor.
Victor: The feeling is mutual. Thank you, Kate, for looking out for the kids working here.
Kate: And... if I'm misunderstanding/wrong, please disregard it.
Victor: ...Huh?
Kate: Victor, was there something that seemed to be bothering you?
Kate: Things that could cloud Victor's heart...
(This one/child truly has a keen eye for people, doesn’t she?)
Honest eyes deserve honest answers.
Victor: Tonight, William and I are embarking on a mission, but it's not a particularly pleasant one, I must say.
There's a story going around about a group that worships Her Majesty the Queen, essentially treating her as a deity.
(People are free to believe in what they want. We, as the Crown, have no right to condemn that. However..)
It appears that this organization kidnaps and imprisons women as idols, and if they are not considered worthy vessels for Her Majesty, they are killed.
//The group is said to kidnap and imprison women as idols and kill them if they are not worthy of Her Majesty.
Victor: Tonight, we will proceed with the investigation, and if they are found guilty, we will deliver judgment in the name of evil.
//Tonight, we'll intensify the investigation. If they are guilty, we'll bring judgment in the darkness.
Kate: ...Committing murder in the name of their worship.
Victor: Kate, there's a possibility that this mission might not be pleasant for you either. So--
Before I could finish my sentence, Kate responded with a determined look in her eyes.
Kate: Victor, would you allow me to accompany you as a storyteller?
Believing that above all, we should respect her will, that night, we infiltrated the organization's stronghold.
William: Belongings of the missing, bloodstains, and then a body was discovered. There's no way to deny it.
Kate: This case is... deserving of condemnation, isn't it?
//This case is... in black, isn't it?
(Tommy Yeager, a noble. Leah Rodriguez, a legislator. Kevin Nicholson...)
(Quite a lineup/assemblage of influential figures, isn't it?)
In times of insatiable greed, those in power liken the queen to a deity and seem to have wishes they want her to fulfill.
William: Tonight, I can speculate that the ritual is taking place in two locations. Either on the upper floor of this mansion or in the basement.
Victor: I'll go to the basement with Kate. Let's head there immediately to prevent further victims.
Kate: Yes...
William: Victor, how much mercy tonight?
Victor: None needed. Their actions deserve condemnation. Loyalty to your wickedness, William.
Kate, I didn't want to show her too much of the horrific scene, praying that this wasn't the 'right' place…
(Ah, I see. It seems like the basement is the 'right' place.)
In the basement, there was an altar-like structure with flickering candlelight. People wearing masquerade-like masks surrounded the altar, and at its center lay a young girl who seemed barely of age.
(So, that's the 'replacement' for the queen. ...Truly grotesque.)
I noticed a man attempting to lower a candle onto the girl's arm, and without hesitation, I took a step forward.
However, Kate moved before me.
Kate: ............no, stop!
The red-haired man with a mask: W-who is this girl! Let go, let go...
Kate: Please stay away from her!... Kyaa!
It happened in an instant, and Kate, who was pushed away, collided with the altar and collapsed on the spot.
Victor: Kate...? Kate...?
(It's okay, she's breathing. She just passed out...)
---In the moment of her collapse, something seemed to have rolled and fallen near Kate.
(...Ah, this is...)
*******FLASHBACK*****************
Victor: Kate, tonight you were supposed to accompany Elbert and Roger on a mission.
Kate: Yes, I'm not used to it yet, so I hope I won't be a hindrance.
Victor: I see. Then, take this.
Kate: A cameo hairpin?
Victor: May it protect you from danger.
Kate: Hehe, it feels reassuring that you've always been there to protect me.
Kate: Thank you, Victor! I'll be going now.
*******FLASHBACK ENDS********************
(...The thing I gave you when you first came to the Crown, isn't it?)
With closed eyes, Kate and the girl lying on the altar, and those who had died, the reasons for not holding back tonight were ample.
Red-haired masked man: Hah, because you disturbed our sacred ritual!
Black-haired masked man: Hey, wait... This gentleman...
Black-haired masked man: Isn't that Lord Victor?
Freckled masked man: Really! Why is His Excellency, the right hand of the queen, here?
While looking at the eerie individuals with masks, focus is on one of them.
Victor: You're the one who pushed this girl, aren't you?
Red-haired masked man: Y-yes... It was me, Lord Victor.
Victor: As I command you. Pledge your allegiance to evil.
//Let it be commanded in the name of death. Now, it's time for death to come for you.
The man's eyes gaze into the void, and his expression becomes euphoric.
Red-haired masked man: Ah... It feels so wonderful. I... I...
The man reaches for his own neck and tightens it, ending his life.
Black-haired masked man: He's... dead...? Why did he... commit suicide...?
Looking at the bewildered men, I focus on one.
Victor: ...Starting from the right, say your names.
Black-haired masked man: Tommy Jaeger... Ugh...
Another death command.
Freckled masked man: Leah Rodriguez. Ah, I... Ah!
Another death command.
Finally, what remained was silence and the serene faces of those who died, as if having beautiful dreams.
William: Is it settled? It seems I won't have a chance to step in.
Victor: Yes, Will. The 'target' was here.
//Yes, Will. The correct location was here.
William: As always, they seem happy in death. As if invited by a god.
(A god, huh?)
As if emphasizing that "Queen Majesty" is not a god.
Victor: ......Humans can never become gods.
William: If you say so, it must be true.
William quietly smiles and lifts the girl on the altar.
William: This girl is mine. I'll leave Kate to you.
William: Considering your anger, it seems Kate is involved.
Returning to the castle, Kate was examined by Roger, and he mentioned that she would wake up soon.
Gently placing the unconscious Kate on her bed.
(Kate. I'm truly relieved that nothing happened to you.)
While looking at Katel's face, I recall the night we first met.
I suggested the position of a fairytale writer to her, partly on a whim,
and partly because I expected it to bring change to the Crown.
Although they are different types, all the Crown members are strong.
That's why I believe that "change brought on by others" is necessary.
People become stronger with the presence of others.
(That change will guide those children to even more beautiful evil/wickedness, I thought.)
I watched Kate from a distance, or at least that was the plan,
(You, without me realizing it, seemed to have brought change to me as well.)
As William said, when Kate was hurt, anger surged within me.
Vividly, truly... human-like emotions
(When you're around, I feel like I'm pulled from being a spectator to being involved.)
(But)
Gently placing the cameo hairpin back in Kate's hair
(No matter how cute you are, I must remain "Assistant to the Queen Victor," by your side as a guardian)
(Beyond that or less than that is not allowed)
//(Not more, not less)
Because if not, my darkness, death, would engulf/swallow her.
I give her hair a gentlemanly kiss.
Victor: Consider it a bad dream of one night and forget everything. Nightmares and death won't chase after you because of me.
Victor: ...Goodnight, Kate.
The next day, when Kate woke up, she rushed to apologize to me.
Kate: I'm sorry, Victor. It's because I rushed out without thinking...
(Don't worry, even if I say not to, you'll still worry.)
//(Don't worry, even if you say that, you'll still be concerned.)
(Oh, that's right. If that's the case,)
Victor: Kate, why don't we have lunch together?
Victor: Ah, today was a lonely lunchtime for me, so I'm glad you're here.
Kate: Is this to make up for last night?
Victor: Of course. Sharing a delicious meal with someone is one of my joys.
Kate: Hehe, then I'm relieved.
(Oh, finally your wonderful smile is back.)
--Suddenly, a fine rain starts to fall above us.
Victor: It's just a passing shower. Kate, come here. Let's go to that gazebo over there.
Kate: Y-yes...
(Well, that surprised me. London's rain is so unpredictable.)
Victor: Kate, are you okay—
Before I could ask, Kate wiped my cheeks with her own palm.
Kate: I'm fine. Besides, Victor...
Victor: ............
Kate's palm, which is more concerned about me getting wet than herself, is incredibly gentle.
It's like rain falling softly from a clear sky, and it once again brings change to my heart.
Kate: Besides, Victor...
Kate: There's something Liam wanted to give you. He was searching, saying he had to give it to you yesterday.
Jude Jazza & Ellis Twilight — Villains Want to Embarrass Little Robin Story Event
Epilogue
I do not own any contents of Ikemen Villains. This story being uploaded in this blog belongs solely to CYBIRD. Please support them by downloading their games and buying their stories. Both English and Japanese are not my mother tongue languages, please keep in mind that there will be mistakes and added words for my own preferences. I translate for my personal entertainment and for my own practice only.
Kate: "Ellis's "request"... Is this okay with you? Are you sure?
Ellis: "Yeah. Date with Jude and Miss Kate on my day off."
Jude: “There's no such thing as a date with the three of us.”
Each with a gelato of a different colour in hand, we sit on the stairs and look out over the city of London.
Ellis: “I saw that Miss Kate seemed to be having a good time on her last mission, so I thought the three of us would be good together."
(Looks like fun..... Was it?)
I try to remember what happened a few days ago.
I was surprised by Mr. Jude's Queen’s English,
I was blown away by Ellis's outrageous act,
Sleeping in a bed with the three of us.….
(......Well, the last one shocked me the most anyway)
I can't say that it was fun, but it was certain that laughter came to mind more than fear.
(Once again, it's thanks to the two of them that we were able to finish the mission safely.)
Ellis: “Here, Miss Kate. I'll give you a bite of mine."
Kate: "Wow..... Actually, I was a little curious of your gelato’s flavour, thank you very much."
I lick the chocolate-coloured gelato with my words.
Kate: "!....so sweet and delicious"
Ellis: "Fufu... I'm glad."
Ellis: “Give me Jude's, too."
Without waiting for Mr. Jude's response, Ellis ate the light yellow food in a single bite.
Jude: "Tsk.... I'm telling you to stop eating without permission."
Ellis: "That's right, I'm sorry. But it was delicious, thank you for the meal."
Ellis is the same as always, even to Mr. Jude who seems to be in a bad mood.
After working together with several missions, I get the sense that....... The two of them do not get along well with each other, but it is natural that they have each other's backs.
(......Somehow, it's nice)
I was a little jealous, and when I was staring blankly at Jude's hand,
Ellis: "Miss Kate, do you want to eat Jude’s too?”
Kate: "What?"
When Ellis suddenly said that, my voice turned inside out.
Kate: "No, I was staring at him for a different reason.”
The tip of Mr. Jude's tongue scoops up the pear gelato.
(Ah... but it sure looks delicious.)
Jude: “…..Do you want it?”
Kate: "Eh, is it okay.......?"
I was puzzled when he offered it to me, but I put my lips to it and extended my tongue.
But just before the tip of the tongue touched, the gelato went away.
Kate: “…….?”
Jude: “.....Ha, your face."
Mr. Jude laughed at me who was stuck with my tongue out, and licked another mouthful of gelato.
Kate: "Hey, that's terrible.... Fiddle with my appetite….!”
Ellis: “All right, all right. ......Next time you can eat his like I do, Miss Kate."
Jude: “I told you not to do that. I'm going to beat you to a pulp.”
Ellis said as if he suddenly remembered while I quietly enjoying my own portion of lemon gelato.
Ellis: "Oh, that's right. What is Miss Kate's request?"
Kate: "Eh? Oh...”
Kate: “I'm fine with it because it was the two of you that kept me from being exposed."
Ellis: "But you did a lot of hard work, right?"
Ellis: "I want to fulfil your “request”."
Jude: “………”
Mr. Jude is looking towards the day after tomorrow, as if to say that this question and answer is meaningless.
Kate: "Well then......"
Kate: "Can you tell me how Ellis came to work at Jude's company?"
Ellis: "Is that a request for me? Or a request for Jude?"
Kate: "Both of you. This one is enough."
Jude: “It's a bunch of nonsense. You don't need that useless information.”
Kate: "Yes, it's fine."
Ellis: "Well... I wonder where to start."
Ellis: “When I first met Jude in London, he put me to sleep with his curse ability right after a few words.”
Kate: “Eh…..!?”
Ellis: "That was the first time Jude realised his ability, right?"
Jude: "I thought he was dead because he suddenly rolled to the ground."
Kate: "So, what happened...?"
Jude: "He woke up when I was smoking."
Kate: "Were you smoking next to someone you thought might be dead.....?"
Ellis: "At that time, I thought maybe he was the same as me, so I also showed my ability."
Kate: "...You mean that you restrained Mr. Jude's wrists...?"
(I don't know what to be scared of...)
Jude: "You don't need that part.”
Ellis: “So, since I didn't have a place to stay, he took me to his house.”
Kate: "Yeah... They say don't follow people you meet for the first time......"
Kate: "Or rather, Mr. Jude shouldn't bring someone you've met for the first time to your house...?"
Jude: “I don't need you to tell me how to manage my life.”
Ellis: "And, I signed the contract."
Kate: "I'm starting to feel like I'm listening to a bad scam experience...... With the way things are going, why did you sign.....?"
Ellis: “I don't have to worry about food, work, or a place to live. .....because he promised me."
Ellis: "I'm waiting for the time when Jude will be the happiest in his life."
Kate: "A promise that will be fulfilled at that time, you mean?"
Ellis: "Yes. He promises to fulfil my request when that time comes."
Kate: “Your request?”
Ellis smiled and avoided the answer.
Ellis: "But... It's hard to come. I wonder if Jude has always been unhappy."
Jude: "You're so noisy."
Kate: "What about Mr. Jude? Why did you decide to hire Ellis?"
Jude: “His physical ability and his curse are useful. He's definitely a bit of a nutcase."
Jude: "There's no way we're going to miss this precious labour force."
Kate: ".....Aiming for the body......?”
Jude: "Stop using creepy phrases."
(Mr. Jude wants to use Ellis conveniently, and Ellis wants Mr. Jude to grant his wish.)
They are by each other's side for each other's purposes...... I guess it's a contractual relationship.
(But...... I feel like that contract was finalised because it was these two people, not anyone else.)
Anyone else would surely have had a different outcome.
I think it's stronger than the bonds of friendship and love.
Ellis: "Well, next's Jude's turn."
Jude: “……..”
After thinking a little, Mr. Jude pointed at me,
Jude: "...From here”
His fingertip pointed across the main street.
Jude: "Run as fast as you can to the bookstore five blocks away and buy these."
On the paper that was given to me, there was a lot of the name of the book.
Kate: "Why do I need to run as fast as I can....?"
Jude: "It's boring when it's just an errand, isn't it?"
Jude: "....Will you keep your promise?"
(That's right......)
Kate: "I'm going......!”
I ate the rest of the gelato and ran through the city of London.
Ellis: ".....You don't have to run.”
Jude: "If you let her walk too long, she'll look back."
Ellis: "Four, five... seven? Who is it this time? Those who have a grudge against Jude again?"
Jude: "I don't know."
Jude: "Three minutes. Finish it before the princess comes back."
Ellis: “Give me two and a half minutes. You'll be thirsty, I'll have to buy you some water."
Jude: "Tsk..... If you do it, you should do four people."
Ellis: "Understood."
Without making any arrangements or exchanging eye contact, the two casually stepped into London’s thinly lit streets.