What happens when two hopes meet?

“Hello, I’m Makoto Naegi.” He introduced himself.

“I know.” Izuru said impassively, not at all bothering to do his part of the introduction.

“Well I guess that’s a given. Then I’ll just cut to the chase.” Naegi briefly chuckled weakly and then ultimately hardened his face. A serious tone replaced his usual lighthearted one. “I’m not here to hurt you. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. I want to help you.”

Izuru regarded him for a long while with a stoic face. “…Is that really the truth? What about your peers?”

“I’ll be honest. Future Foundation wants you dead.” Naegi nervously admitted.

“I see…” He replied not at all fazed by the news.

“But even though I’m part of that, I’m still my own person.” “I don’t think anyone deserves to die no matter what they did. And that includes you, Kamukura. I want to help you.”

“How boring.” He rebuffed. “If you really plan to help me then you’ll become a traitor. Not only to your organization but to the world as well.”

“Even so, I want to help you!” Naegi said determinedly.

“Why go through such lengths for me?” Izuru raised his chin as he coldly questioned him.

“Because deep down I know that you’re a good person.” Naegi said with so much emotion that it was hard not be moved. “Because I believe in you.”

“…” Izuru kept his silent stance not at all revealing any hint of emotion.

Naegi raised his hand as he offered, “So will you let me help you?” He said it softly and with a certain alluring tenderness to it. He sounded warm and safe.

“Do what you want.” Izuru deadpanned as he took Naegi’s hand and gave it a half-commitant shake. “It doesn’t interest me either way.”

“Thank you.” Naegi instantly flashed his trademark hopeful smile. “You’ll get the help you need. I promise you.”

What happens when two hopes meet?

They don’t collide. Instead, they make contact.

And maybe at some point, these two hopes would unite and create an even brighter future.