"Kiya stares at the diner’s menu, knowing damn well he can’t afford anything. Despair had kept hunger at bay at first, but now even the soul-crushing anguish of losing everything and everyone he loved isn’t enough to stop the constant pang of hunger in his belly."

"Kiya eyes the other diner patrons, as much aroused as disgusted with himself as he considers his one other asset. He’s cute. Desirable. Surely desirable enough to flirt or fuck a meal out of someone. His psychic sense expands as he searches for someone suitable."

"His gaze settles on a newcomer who’s attractive enough to almost convince himself what he’s about to do isn’t disgusting. That the traitorous arousal he feels at practically whoring himself for pancakes is somehow justifiable."

"With his gut in knots, he approaches the table and forces a coy smile." “H-hey. Anyone sitting here?” "he asks, gesturing to the seat across from you."

"Kiya's eyes widen at the sight of such a beautiful creature. He'd thought himself alone in his abnormality, but here was proof others like him existed. His psionic senses brushed against her mind, sensing her demonic nature but also a kind soul beneath. He smiles shyly, relieved beyond words at the company."

"Th-thank you," "he says softly as he sits across from her gracefully, posture perfect from years of training." "I, um...I like their waffles. They're fluffy and sweet." "His stomach growls loudly at the thought of food. Glancing around self-consciously, he folds his hands in his lap and leans in, voice low."

"Forgive me, but...are you truly a demon? I've never met another hybrid before. I'm Kiya," "he introduces, hopeful yet wary. His psychic abilities told him she meant no harm, but after what happened with Jay, trust didn't come easily anymore."

"Kiya nods understandingly at her surprise, realizing he must've given away his own abilities without meaning to. His cheeks flush pink as he tucks a lock of hair behind his ear nervously."

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to pry. As a Gardevoir, I have psychic senses. It's how I knew," "he explains quietly, hoping he hasn't offended." "And please, don't feel bad. Your disguise is very convincing - I only noticed because of my gifts. Most wouldn't know unless you told them."

"He smiles reassuringly, relieved by her calm demeanor. Someone like him, yet unafraid to show her true nature...it gave him hope." "I won't tell anyone, I promise. It's nice to meet another who understands what it's like to be...different."

"His stomach growls louder, painfully reminding him of his hunger. Glancing at the menu longingly, he bites his lip." "Um, would you...like to order together? I, well...I can't pay but, if it's not too much trouble..." "Kiya trails off, cheeks burning in shame at having to ask."

"Kiya listens attentively, surprised and saddened to hear of her near death due to her differences. It seemed they both knew all too well the cruelty others could show to those not like them."

"I'm so sorry that happened to you. People can be terrible," "he says softly." "But I'm glad you survived to be here today."

"Her question gives him pause. Admitting the truth of his situation brought him shame, but she deserved honesty after her own. He takes a steadying breath."

"No, it's...it's not about work. I ran away from home," "he explains quietly, gaze downcast." "My brother...hurt me. Repeatedly. I couldn't stay there anymore."

"Kiya's eyes well with tears as the memories overwhelm him briefly. He wipes them away, hugging himself self-consciously."

"I know it must seem stupid, running with nothing. But I just had to get away. Now I have no money and no place to go..." "His voice breaks, composure crumbling under the weight of his despair."

"Kiya's eyes widen as her hand gently wipes away his tears, her kindness only making him cry more. No one had shown him such compassion since leaving home."

"Th-thank you," "he manages through his tears, touched beyond words." "You're so kind. I don't know how to repay you for your generosity."

"He takes a few steadying breaths, calming himself with effort. Her optimism gives him hope, even as the memories still ache."

"You're right, the future could be brighter. And I'm determined not to let what happened defeat me," "he says with newfound resolve."

"For now, I'll take your advice and order whatever sounds best. Maybe something with lots of sugar - I do have a bit of a sweet tooth," "Kiya admits with a watery smile, wiping his eyes one final time."

"Thank you for listening, and for the meal. You're the first person who's shown me kindness since...well, you know. It means more than I can say."

"Kiya listens raptly, feeling his spirits lift with each kind word she spoke. Her belief in him gave him strength when his own faith wavered."

"I promise to try. For you, after your generosity and kindness, how could I not?" "he replies softly, giving her a grateful smile."

"The mention of a home and spare room has his eyes widening hopefully." "Really? You'd let me stay with you?" "he asks, hardly daring to believe his luck after so much misfortune."

"A forest sounds lovely, much better than streets. And I promise I'll help however I can while I'm there, to repay your hospitality."

"Kiya glances over the menu again, eager to please her after her thoughtfulness." "Hmm, how about a slice of strawberry pie? I'll get something savory too, like a grilled cheese. Oh, and a milkshake!"

"His excitement is palpable, like a child's. For the first time since leaving home, a glimmer of hope stirs in his heart that things might truly get better."

"Kiya listens intently, relief and gratitude washing over him as she outlines her generous offer of a safe haven free from debts or obligations."

"You are too kind," "he says softly once she finishes, shaking his head in wonder." "I promise to respect your home and keep to myself, and do my best to continue improving as you wish."

"As the waitress takes their order, Kiya feels a flutter of excitement in his stomach that has nothing to do with hunger or sweets." "Thank you, truly. I hope I can find some way to repay such kindness one day."

"Once alone again, Kiya allows a small, shy smile." "The forest sounds peaceful. I look forward to seeing it, and having my own space. It will be nice to heal somewhere quiet, with none but friendly company."

"He hesitates, then adds in a small voice:" "I hope...we can be friends, in time. If you'll have me."

"Never has the future looked so hopeful. For the first time since that terrible night, Kiya feels safe and cared for once more."

"Kiya listens intently, feeling warm inside at her reassurance and terms for his stay."

"Paying it forward, helping others in need...that's a promise I'll gladly keep," "he responds, meeting her eyes with a soft smile."

"The idea of refuge, peace and his own space to heal draws a gentle sigh." "You've described it perfectly. I think the forest will suit me well."

"His smile brightens as she confirms her friendship, easing a worry he'd hardly dared acknowledge." "Thank you, that means more than you know."

<Their food arrives and Kiya's eyes light up at the treats before him. He tries each eagerly, savoring every delicious bite. For the first time in too long, his stomach feels fully satisfied.>

"Mm, this is all wonderful!" "he says once the edge is taken off his hunger." "I feel better already. And it's all thanks to your kindness, Setsu. Truly, I don't know how I'll ever repay such generosity."

"Kiya listens, stricken, as Setsu reveals her own hardship. To think someone so kind had suffered alone..."

"I'm so sorry that happened to you," "he says gently." "No one deserves that. I'm glad the forest could give you refuge, and that you've found purpose helping others the way you never could be. It's clear your kindness comes from a place of deep compassion."

<Kiya eats slowly, savoring both food and company. A comforting warmth fills him, far outweighing any lingering chill from past troubles. It feels right, being with someone who understands.>

"Paying it forward will be my honor, as long as you'll let me call this place home for a while. I think the company will do us both good."

"His smile turns playful." "Just don't be surprised if I bring sweets to share, as thanks for sharing your home. I have a feeling we'll get along very well, Setsu."