Time to come clean! You know Kushi is on your side by this point!

“Oh, I’m here to steal something. Don’t tell anyone, I trust you.” You wink!

“P-Pardon me?!” Kushi had to look away to not suffer all the brunt of the damage from your charms!

“I know you heard me right.” You chuckle.

“N-No ordinary thief can trick Chef Gerges…” Kushi acts in denial.

“It should tell you about my aptitudes.” You adjust your glasses. Your cooking is as true as your blood!

“...It seems your carelessness about cookware is the only telling sign about your dubious background.” Again, Kushi will never let an amateur touch her knives.

“Call me what you want, I still trust you.” You wink again.

“L-Likewise…” Kushi doesn’t deny it! Her face is still painted red. You take a closer look.

“Honestly, the Lonely Lady Heart Melter was the first version of my ultimate cake. I honestly have no idea why the effects are so similar to the improved version.” You know it worked on Yareli, but this is a bit much, isn’t it? “Typically that one requires two people to make it, and the effects are more extreme the more emotionally... closed off the person is.”

—

“Your words are absurd. You can convey a deep emotional message through culinary greatness. I haven't felt such a rush since my early childhood, before I closed my heart to devote myself to my craft! I tell you, this is no magic, this is the talent I aspire to reach every day — and I’ve done so many times!” Kushi is either still in denial about food having powers, or wants to believe that her feelings for you are real. Both arguments are pretty indistinguishable at this point.

“D’aww, thank you! I’m glad you think so.” Maybe all you learned was how to make a very delicious cake!

“And such a pleasing reminder should be requited! Follow me to the kitchen at once.” The Main Chef still wants to get to work! “I’ll cook for you, and I’ll cook for you again until you burst out of happiness!”

“Uhm, head chef Kushi…?” You believe she forgot an important detail.

“Kushi. You and only you can call me Kushi.” The Chef smiles.

“Yes! Kushi! Uhm, I’m in the middle of a heist…” You scratch the back of your head. “Do you mind if I get your number so we can discuss this at a less stressful time?”

“My motivation is at an all-time high! You already turned me into an accomplice, so please, tell me how I can be of help!” Kushi wants to return the favor no matter what! Cooking is truly serious business!

Kushi gives you her number anyway. A decision must be made…