Real Talk (2)

“Holy shit, this rocks!” Kei nearly inhales half of the chicken pepper jack panini melt she ordered in one bite. “Do they use magic chickens or something? It tastes so damn good!”

Rika laughs. “No, I don’t believe they do. Perhaps just magic chefs. I’m glad you’re a fan, it’s one of my favs too.” Rika gives her a moment to enjoy before asking, “Feeling better now?”

Kei tilts her head in confusion. “Huh? I told you earlier I was fine. I don’t usually cry so easily. I was just...caught off guard, I guess. I’m not actually angry about what you said to me. I mean, you probably had a point. I just don’t know if I’m ready to face that truth just yet.”

“Oh no, I don’t mean that. Yes, we certainly have a lot to unpack on that point, but we can take our time and let you grow away from that naturally. I’m talking about how depressed you looked after you got that last text just before we left for lunch. You seemed completely dejected, and I thought you might break down again.”