Waaaaaaaaaaittttttttt - I had never considered this kind of scenario for a sequel but I think you cracked the code. Maki taking her, middle of the night, almost home after exorcising a spirit. Exhausted and spent, already. Can't put up too much of a fight when Maki corners her, eyes pleading, but her strength severe pulling her into an alleyway. Can you imagine? It's not romantic, just like last time. And, yet... Maki being so close to her, filling her like this, strong arms making sure she doesn't go anywhere - maybe if she squints it's the closest thing a Zenin can get to soulmates.

Love the thought of Mai making some passive-aggressive comment during it about Nobara - doesn't Maki feel shame, she wonders? Silent when Maki fully admits they're not together anymore. How much of an ego boost would it be to hear it's because she was thinking of Mai during their last night together? The implication of it, even? Maki isn't forgiven but Mai lingers once all is said and done.

Maki asks if she can walk her home. Funny. Who's ever heard of a perpetrator wishing to escort a victim home?