I would like to think that both the city and I have gotten to know one another rather well by now. [ and he doesn't sound too pleased by that, either.

the findings in the lab last month are constantly in the back of his mind. but without Sebastian-- ]

A generous offer.

[ Sebastian. he doesn't need Sebastian. he has his own means--he has other pieces. his smile is slow, and almost sickly sweet. ]

I believe I will take you up on it. If it is more of my company you would like, then it is more you shall have.

[ his fingers dance along his pieces, finally settling on another pawn. that had been quite a telling statement, on the doctor's part: essentially 'the more I see you, the more I like you.' how fortunate that he should come to earn the admiration of such a useful man just when he needs someone most. and he hadn't even been trying; he admits to himself that his interactions with Muraki have been far more genuine than most. still, it had paid off, in the end. ]

You truly wouldn't mind having me in your office? I would hate to distract you from your work.