[Indeed, Luca does crack a grin at that. Ryan isn't exactly subtle. At the same time, though, he knows that his own eye is well-trained to that sort of thing. He also can't imagine coming from a world where that isn't relatively normal, either. He doubted anyone batted an eye when Aquila married her wife, despite being the highest ranking person in the country. Augustus had bristled at the concept when he was still living, but that was solely for a need to continue on his family line. And if nothing else, he'd backed down easily enough thanks to Cyrus's own pressuring.

Trying to place himself in Min-Gi's shoes, however...]

So, let us consider a different perspective. Someone who is not as honest with himself. Who has experienced a world that invokes real fear for being who they are. And, let's be honest, someone a little thick when it comes to those matters.

[He leans back, drumming his fingers on the counter.]

But that then begs the question: if you've known each other for so long, then Min-Gi should have seen that, right? And looking at the two of you, the only person he knows better than himself is you. So, if he could not recognize that in you, is there a chance he cannot see it in himself yet?

[Still, Luca can understand the sentiment in Ryan's words. He doesn't hesitate to in backing down.]

If having him around means that much to you, and if you truly think the outcome will be so bleak, then I will not pressure you. I... think I can understand, better than most, how hard it is to lose something so important.