I don't want to work anymore.

“I’ll just take my time off,” you say, craning your neck. “This has been a pretty exciting gig so far- much more than what I was predicting.”

Kenji sighs. He gives you a long stare that makes you shift legs. There’s no warmth behind his brown gaze, and it’s only ice. “That wasn’t too bad, especially considering what you did back in Montana.”

You stiffen, suddenly remembering what Kenji had been through not all that long ago. Now you felt the tinge of embarrassment. You didn’t know how to reply, so you didn’t, leaving Kenji an opening to say something else. “Also, if you’re considering hanging out with Akiko more. Don’t.”

He squared with you and continued. “Every single male and female in their party is single for a reason. Don’t try to fuck with any of them, especially Akiko.”

You wanted to ask why, but his glare was so severe you decided not to. “Noted.” You told him.

“If you’re going to take some time off, I suggest not doing anything. Stay in your room and reflect a bit. But, if you do change your mind, with all the extra bodies we have to do contracts, casualties are bound to increase, don’t be afraid to poke around and see if you lend a helping hand.”

“Alright, thanks, Kenji. I’ll be sure to remember that.” You tell me. “I’ll see you again around dinner…?”

Kenji doesn’t answer. Instead, he trails off on his own. He’s definitely more distant than you expected, considering that you just put your neck on the line for him...again…

Trudging yourself back to your room, you let the events of the morning replay in your head. The confrontation, the gunfight, the lunch you had with Akiko, then the awkward tension you had with Kenji. You yawn and flop to your side, staring at the clock beside your bed. It was only a little past 2 o’clock.

You don’t think there’s anything else to do besides sleep, so that’s what you do. You rest your head on your pillow and let all the air in your lungs escape before you close your eyes.

Every minute that ticks by almost feels like a waste of time. You suppose to a degree, it actually is...