Ren hums thoughtfully, as if considering Akechi’s observation for the first time. As if that wasn’t the entire point of making the suggestion in the first place.

“I guess it is.”

Ren has heard more than once that he is too trusting, especially when it comes to Akechi. Just because they had shared goals in taking down Maruki doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be at odds again outside of those circumstances.

But Ren is willing to bet on Akechi doing better things without the shackles of his past to hold him back. He’s willing to bet that he understands Akechi well enough to find the other boy worth trusting and worth the risk that entails.

No risk, no reward, after all. Ren flashes a cheeky grin.

“Up to the challenge?”