C96 Unspoken Word

The alley behind the riverside bar was half-lit by a broken neon sign, its red glow flashing like a pulse. Keiji leaned against the brick wall, jacket damp from the mist. He had been waiting only a few minutes when Daisuke appeared — calm, unreadable, as always.

“Didn’t expect you to come,” Daisuke said, lighting a cigarette. “You’re still his shadow, huh?”

Keiji’s eyes narrowed