“Hey, kid.” Itami watches to make sure the bullies have scattered. “I’m not gonna hurt you.”
He was on his way to meet Eto when he came across the scene. Three older kids beating up a young boy, calling him slurs. And then the boy stumbled, and Itami noticed his kakugan form.
So he meddled, CCG briefcase still in hand. Eto would be proud.
The kid flinches.
“Really. I know I’m CCG, but I won’t turn you in.” Itami holds out his hand. “What’s your name?”
“You can call me Niji.” The kid’s voice is more feminine than Itami expected, so he wonders if he’s misjudged their gender. Maybe that’s why those idiots beat her up.
“I’m Itami, Niji. It’s good to meet you.” Itami hands her a business card with his name on it. “Run along home now, but please be careful about showing your kakugans. Some of my colleagues are, er, unkind.”
“You’re not going to kill me? Isn’t that against the law?” Niji crosses her arms.
Itami winks. “I won’t tell if you won’t.”
The kid smiles slightly. “Thank you.”
She steps forward, as if she wants to hug him, but instead runs away.
He doesn’t blame her. He wouldn’t trust him if he were a ghoul. He’s grateful Eto does.
Speaking of, he’s late. Itami opens his phone to reveal nearly thirty text messages from SpicyMint Girlfriend.
Mercy and Magic 