"Jackie, the Valentinos were making such a racket in the streets today, like it was a holiday. It reminded me of how you used to be."
"Uh, that's all in the past. We're respectable people now. As soon as we get back from Dogtown, that is!"
On the VR call, Jackie and Misty appeared beside each other.
They were talking while sitting on a beach in Zhuya City, Africa. Jackie wore a pair of shorts, while Misty wore a swimsuit, enjoying the rare natural scenery of Night City.
Sometimes Jackie almost forgot that he was still in Dogtown, on the run with the title of an international Wanted Criminal.
The warm sunshine, fresh air, gentle sound of the waves, and Misty's company made him forget all those troublesome things in an instant-
Actually, remembering them wasn't much use either. Ever since he'd latched onto Lier, he hadn't had to use his brain in a long time.
Misty was lying on the beach chair beside him. She turned to the side and gently placed her hand over his. "Every time you say that, I get a little worried. Maybe you're a big shot with some standing on the streets now, but your situation is more dangerous too."
"Don't worry. I got through it all before, and I'll get through it again." Jackie grinned like an idiot as he looked at the blue sky. "When I get back. When I get back, I'll tell Mom straight out. I've already hinted at it, actually, and she took it pretty well!
"By the way, I can give you the code to my garage. What's mine is yours. You can stay there for a couple of days, and spend some more time talking with Mom, too."
Misty smiled. "Jackie, I really like staying in your