[ The shift from the leveled accusation to the reveal of the joke is so immediate that Maruki doesn't get a chance to react at all. It hits him like a rogue wave, washes right over him, leaves him cold and disoriented and–

This little shit.

Maruki watches him taking those delicate little bites of pasta, weighs his options. Considers messing with him, addressing any of his fascinations using vague terms to continue stringing him along. Considers going the opposite route and stating it plainly, with no presupposition whatsoever.

As he so often does, Maruki chooses the middle ground.

Every ounce of his energy fights to keep his tone mildly curious, as if they're discussing a harmless piece of gossip gleaned from the network. ]

Ah, can I ask who told you that? I'd like to chat with them to ensure they don't spread that to anyone else.

[ If Akechi looks – and he will look – he'll see the slightest hint of teasing mischief alight in Maruki's tired eyes. ]