Akane's expression softened, the rigid tension in her shoulders melting away as she absorbed my words. But her eyes still carried a shadow of guilt, as if she blamed herself for my condition.
She hesitated, then stepped closer, her fingers brushing against my cheek to wipe away the sweat that had beaded there. The touch was unexpected—gentle, almost intimate—and for a moment, the world seemed to still.
Her voice dropped to a hushed, urgent whisper, "You can't tell anyone about your abilities, Jack. Not a soul. If the wrong people find out, you—and everyone you care about—will be in danger."
I met her gaze, my own voice steady despite the act I was putting on. "I know. And don't worry… I'm not as weak as I look."
Akane's fingers lingered near my face for a second longer than necessary before she pulled back. Her eyes narrowed slightly, studying me as if trying to peel back the layers of my deception. "Have you told Yuko or Haruna?" she asked, her tone sharp with suspicion.
