[Oh yeah, he can feel the disapproval like it's coming off Charles in waves, and that's not unexpected. Akane's hard to deal with even when you care about her, he knows that very well. Too well, even, and Junpei has even twisted his perception of her into pretzels to reconcile with her worst habits before—so to be outside it all, looking in? He couldn't possibly expect Charles to sing her praises, or even... neutrally accept her, if he's being honest.

Because it's all or nothing with her, isn't it. Always has been. He half-laughs again, giving Charles another squeeze.]

No, I know, it's okay. I get it. I told her that... she didn't listen to that, either. She's got these big plans, right? You can't get in the way of her big plans, she'll just step right over you.

[Mmm... mmm. Hm.] She's seen the timelines, so... I don't know, she's stuck in all that stuff. She doesn't listen to anybody.