Asami stood up and went to stand ne

Asami stood up and went to stand next to him. His shoulders were slightly tense. “What is it? What are you worried about?” he asked without looking at him.

“You, of course. Who else?”

“My men will look after me. You need to look after yourself.”

“I may help from time to time but I won’t do it in your presence,” said Maseo. The outside lights of the villa had gone on. When Asami turned to face him, the lights illuminated his chiseled face. Maseo studied the beautiful face he’d known for so many years.

“I don’t expect you to do anything that won’t benefit you,” said Asami. He tilted his head just slightly, his hands in his pockets. “Why do you keep looking at me like that?”

“You’re growing colder. You’re starting to freeze up inside.”

“It’s to be expected, right? Considering what’s happened,” said Asami.

“Yes, you’re right. Still, it’s not an easy thing to watch happen.” He leaned on the balcony. “I’ll be gone for a long while. I need to go back to what I was made to do: observing and helping people, and stop getting entangled in these affairs. It’s not a good thing for me.” He knew that without his presence Asami would allow his emotions to shut down but he had to leave. He sighed. “I should go. I’m sorry about Jin. I did the best I could.”

Asami nodded, taking another drag on his cigarette, then he walked into the darkened room. Maseo followed.

“Good luck, old friend,” Asami said, turning to face him, “Take care of yourself.”

“Yes, you do the same.” Maseo smiled and turned to leave.

“Wait,” said Asami, grabbing his arm. “I know you tried hard with Jin. Thanks. I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome.”
____________

Asami stood looking at the empty space where Maseo had been. “Kei.” He shook his head and then went to take a shower.