"...That was the reasoning."
The elevator doors opened. Stella helped Pakart out, rapidly sorting through her thoughts—yes, Hesta was a Quicksilver Needle. She clearly had extensive combat experience...
"But, Jane—"
Through the glass windows, Hesta had already spotted Simoya and her car waiting outside the hotel. Before Hesta could raise a hand in greeting, Stella grabbed her wrist. "Jane! Listen to me first!"
Hesta froze for a moment. Stella's expression was more serious than she had ever seen it.
"...Go on." Hesta nodded. "I'm listening."
"Has anyone ever told you that sometimes you're incredibly perceptive, sharp, even capable of getting straight to the point... but other times, you're extremely slow to catch on? Especially in situations where you've never felt threatened?"
Hesta narrowed her eyes slightly. "What do you—"
"That's because you lack the perspective and experience I have," Stella rushed on. "You're different from me. Brawls can't hurt you, bullets can't hurt you, and even among Quicksilver Needles, you can probably come and go as you please because you're one of the best. So you aren't like me—like me, so sensitive to every little disturbance. But Jane, the devil is in the details. Some dangers... by the time you truly see them, it's already too late."
"...Mm, I'll be careful," Hesta replied evenly. "Tomorrow morning, I'll stay on high alert—"
"She didn't hear a word I said," Stella said, turning back to Pakart. "Sorry, I may have to stay behind. Will you be all right on your own?"
"Of course. Besides, I'm not exactly alone. Isn't someone already here to pick me up?" Pakart nodded in complete understanding, as though Stella's decision had not surprised him in the slightest. "But you absolutely must be careful."
Only then did Hesta realize the seriousness of their conversation. She frowned. "...Both of