[His mother smiles, broadly but in a secretive sort of way, and smooths her skirt as she stands up and reclaims the tray.

[Akechi's ears burn absolutely fluorescent, in the meantime, and his mother speaks so he doesn't have to figure out what to say.] You boys have fun, okay? I'm going to clean up the kitchen and then go see Muhen. Goro, you're off tonight, so remember to take it easy, okay? You two should go to that bathhouse near Akira's cafe.

[He nods, still stunned, and claims his own mug, crossing one leg over the other the way he always has. His mother tuts and is off, and Akechi doesn't figure out how to talk again until she's hollering a pleasant salutation as she leaves the condo. When he does, it's quiet and directed at his mug.]

...it's not... competition.