Evolving Threads (Multi-crossover)

Take your time

A/N: Finally here it is and for a chapter that's mainly just talking, hot damn was this a struggle to write. The main reason this chapter took so long is due to its importance in the story going forward... I really didn't want to mess this up. NGL I ended up needing to spend a lot of time just taking a break from writing and just thinking about literally everything about this story, the themes, the message, the character arcs, even the openings and endings have importance. The good news is that, none of the other chapters are going to be as hard to write... hopefully... Anyway I hope you enjoyed this chapter and as always I hope you all have a great day.

[a]= expressions/actions mid-sentence
'a'= thoughts

None of the artwork/videos shown belong to me.

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It was quiet in the beef bowl shop, aside from Ren and Tatsumi fiddling with pots, pans, and stoves in the back. The air around them felt heavier and it didn't take too long for Tatsumi to notice the look on Ren's face. It was blank, almost emotionless but there was still something brewing in there it, just wasn't ready to come out yet.

Tatsumi: I can tell that there's something going on.

Ren: What do you mean? There's nothing wrong.

Tatsumi: Cut the crap Ren it's pretty damn obvious what the issue is. The only reason me and Ryuko haven't been pushing you is because we knew how much you didn't want to show it.

Ren stayed silent instead he focused on stirring the pot of beef he was cooking.

Tatsumi: It's the Phantom thieves. You're concerned about them.

Ren: Now's not the time, Tatsumi.

Tatsumi: It's never the time, but you keep holding stuff like that in and it'll only get worse until it blows up in your face.

Ren: ...Why are you being so pushy about this? It's not like this is any of your business in the first place.

Tatsumi: Well, I still have to pay you back for taking me in y'know.

Ren: We aren't confidants Tatsumi. I didn't do that because I want something in return.

Tatsumi: So why can't you accept the same thing for yourself?

Ren: Because it isn't the same.

Tatsumi: I know, if I were you'd I be asking for more.

Ryuko: That's a lie...

The boys turned around quickly to Ryuko who was leaning on the door behind them with Senketsu wrapped snugly around her neck.

Ryuko: You'd be talking the way Ren is talking if it were true. You aren't the type to like it when people repay favors, I guess that's why you two get along so well. 

Tatsumi: You were eavesdropping?

Ryuko: Well Senketsu is usually the eavesdropping type. He has nothing better to do than to listen and people watch so he usually can tell when there's something wrong with people.

Ren: Not you too...

Ryuko: Look man I get it, the big strong leader has to be all calm and cool to keep morale up. Went through it already with Red eye over there, but you can at least share some thoughts with us, because we ain't part of your gang.

Ren: Hate to break it to you, but there is no more gang.

Tatsumi: Yeah, the Phantom thieves are gone sure but you guys are still going to be friends right.

Ren: Yes... But things aren't going to be the same for long.