Make it look like an accident

He needed a way to talk with her without seeming forward or forceful. Hell, he felt like he probably couldn't even bring up the whole hypnotism angle unless he had some kind of prompting from her in conversation. So... he needed to start a conversation! And it needed to feel somewhat natural.

The two made their way to Jinbocho, known for its large collection of books. He noticed Hifumi looking at some, and slowly inched over towards her. As she reached for a book, so did he, causing their hands to touch.

Hifumi recoiled immediately, looking downwards.

"Oh! I'm sorry." she said quietly.

"Oh no! It's alright. I should have been paying more attention. Uh... here! Were you wanting to buy this?" he asked, as he picked up the book and held it out to her. It was a book on advanced shogi techniques.

"Well yes, but weren't you looking for it as well?" she inquired.

"I just saw that it was a Shogi book and reached for it. I'm still a beginner. I don't think it would be for me just yet." Kaito said with a sweet smile. Hifumi immediately looked up at him.

"Oh. Are you interested in Shogi?" she asked, a small smile playing on her lips.

"I used to play it a bit as a kid with my grandma. I've been thinking about her recently and decided I might pick it up again. I've been watching some high level tournaments and... wait a second..." he paused, playing up that he recognized her. "Aren't you..?"

Hifumi's face went a bit red.

"Um... y-yes. I'm Hifumi Togo. If you've been watching tournaments, it's very likely you've seen me, Mister..?"

"Hakami. Doctor Kaito Hakami" he said with a small bow.

"Oh! It's nice to meet you. Um..." she paused, getting a bit awkward again. Kaito could tell she was a very intelligent girl. Getting her into a deeper trance would be easier. But getting her to do crazier stuff would be a lot harder. But he needed to get a foot in the door first.