Damnit... he was hoping he didn't have to get into this with Aoko, any Aoko. The fact that this one knew who he is and was supportive didn't make things any easier.

"I stuck my nose where it shouldn't be and ran afoul of something dark and evil," he murmured, looking away. The covers were quickly wrapped back around him like an overly large safety blanket, putting an end to Aoko's staring and hopefully breaking her from her shock. He pulled securely up to his chin and kept a firm hold with his white knuckled grip.

"I'm sorry you had to see that. You... shouldn't get involved in this."