Without his glasses to hide behind, Ren’s expression should be easier to read - eyebrows arched up and mouth slightly parted in surprise. It’s not the statement itself that’s so unexpected as much as the direct manner in which Akechi delivers it, and it startles one of those silent giggles Ren hides behind bent fingers that makes his shoulders shake.

“So … you’re saying I do have a chance?”

It’s nice to have a little less uncertainty, at least. Though a good percentage of the official Goro Akechi fan club would be crushed to learn this.

That tiniest part of Ren that reared up in jealousy earlier is immensely satisfied at the thought.