capital babies

there had always been a sense of “alliances”, per say in a world that valued talent above the talentless. a society to thrive simply among the betterment of one’s ability to a muse over another. for gain, for money, for simple recognition, so on.

or: an alliance between two families with dirty history seems to push their sons together for better or for worse

Chapter Text

there had always been a sense of “alliances”, per say in a world that valued talent above the talentless. a society to thrive simply among the betterment of one’s ability to a muse over another. for gain, for money, for simple recognition, the most influential family names that stood above with talent shined with their knowing of connection to others.

for better or for worse, that’s how the world always seemed to work.

movements of life pasted in motion outside the window of the car, tree leaves moving gently in the wind and houses in pass. the view of the city shifting from dynamics in aesthetic.

“don’t look so glum, and sit up straight,” a woman’s voice cooly but firmly stated. “it’s bad for your posture.”

“ah, sorry..” shuichi’s voice returned, adjusting his posture as such, keeping his vision away from the window and across from him in the car seat low and behold a man and woman modestly dressed, not exactly the appearance of a mother and father to be expected in sight everyday.

“exactly what is this family’s business again?” he asked gently, the man with a pocket sized book in his lap peeking his vision above his eyelids at his son.

“surely you didn’t forget the conversation at dinner.” he applied firmly, now moving his gaze fully up with a sigh escaping his nostrils.

“well, when you have your nose pushed into a book all the time, it makes sense your memory fails you.” the woman remarked.

“he takes after me,” setting down the book, he looks at him. “it’s a family with tight knit lineage to criminal activity, ouma, if you remember.”

“that’s the part i’m not understanding, why a group of criminals? isn’t that..not really ethical?” shuichi questions, swiping a palm over his pant leg.

“care to further this question or to bite your tongue?” the man tested, knitting his eyebrows in slight impatience.

“there’s already enough people out there who think we’re dirty cops..do we really want to add to that image?”

“dirty or not, cases get closed or passed off all the time. everyone is already aware how corrupt the system of justice is.” the woman sighs in explanation.

“and ethical or not, there’s equal benefits so you needn’t concern yourself too much.”

another way to further their name to be popularised, he would have guessed. not furthering his questions despite his parent’s continuing to speak.

“whether or not you like it, you’ll have to get used to it. you know the drill.”

“yes ma’am.”

“mind you, they have a son your age, so hopefully third times a charm and you can find yourself a friend.” she adds in, moving to cross a leg over the other, a hand smoothing her dress gently and a backhanded tone to follow along. “you seem to lack some of those.”

“yes ma’am.”

barely a mother or father had he known to listen to their commands, respond like a loyal guard for a monarch. nothing he could do about it, an only looking back out the window.

the step out from the car had left the young detective with a waft of passed rain and fresh floral scents in his face. the transition from a view of a city and buildings around to a nicely put together neighbourhood left him with caution in his chest.

despite the welcoming sense of the moderately sized house in front of him, he never was much a big fan of being included in these agreement meetings, much less his mother having to scold him on everything he knew to already prepare beforehand.

neatly painted nails quickly adjusting his hm strands of his hair or pulling at his clothes in adjustment to leave him a little awkward, but all was over as they were let in the house, white seeming to almost bomb the place everywhere he looked.

the wood flooring the most prominent astray the off white walls and the porcelain curtains. the couches and marble looking coffee table. all white. he couldn’t fathom someone adorning a colour as such, though, knowing the state of his own home, he hadn’t much room to speak.

“we can discuss this subject in the dinning room, your son can gladly join or reside here.” a woman with neatly kept blackish violet hair stated, offering a hand towards one of the couches. shuichi nodding in appreciation awkwardly.

“oh? I was sure you said you had a son, is he not home?”

“he is, though I don’t think he would come down anytime soon.” the man next to her is quick to dismiss with a quick switch back to a smile, a facade in some form as he led the man and woman away, leaving shuichi stood in the living room.

at the point where he was, he thought staying home he would have been better off. despite the welcoming behaviour of the other two adults, he knew to feel a bit off with the reason behind their names.

he’d keep his vision distracted elsewhere, looking upon the curtains or at some of the frames across the walls. something strangely creeping as a feeling not far behind though.

“sooo,” a rasped voice drew out in a bored tone. shuichi flinching slightly to turn to the source of the voice. “you’re the great baby detective.”

the young man stood in a loosely positioned way, leaning against the railings of the stairs he stood at and ankles crossed. a shade of hair similar to the woman he met earlier and the only difference being how they seemed to stick out in messy waves. and a devilish like grin painted his lips with what looked like small hoop gold earrings.

“I..think you mean boy detective,” he slowly corrects the other, clearing his voice as he adjusted his view down and back up again. “if you’re gong off a news article..”

“same thing,” he shrugs, finishing his cruise down the stairs to inspect the other young man, shuichi pursing his brows as he moved closer yet kept a distance.

“not exactly.”

“relax, will ya? it’s not like im gonna kill you or anything.”

“from what I know so far, I’m not sure i can trust that fully.”

“what till you learn how many lies run in this family.” he chuckles. “you solved what, like a good handful of cases in your free time and you still don’t have a name?”

“it’s shuichi.”

the other tilted his head, brows raised temporarily. “ah, a cute name to match a cute face.”

not wanting to be curious to what sort of tone the other honed, he continued.

“you?”

“kokichi— or, ya know, ultimate supreme leader of around 10,000 members.” he plainly states, clicking his tongue as he leaned against the fireplace. “not to brag or anything, but i’ve got a good thing running for me.”

“ah, really? i’ve never heard of an organisation that big.”

“pretty underground super top secret stuff,” he smiles. “not even sometime like you or your family could figure something like that out.”

“i’m sure.” he gently dismisses, turning his vision elsewhere. not amused, the other man hums as he watches the detective.

“so what’s up with you?”

“pardon?”

“cause this is definitely the last place you’d want to be,” he starts, glancing his his hand that wasn’t rested against the fireplace and inspecting his cuticles. “trust me, i find these meetings juuust as boring as you do.”

“why did you come downstairs then?”

“well I was planning on leaving a smoke bomb down here before evacuating out the window,” he begins with a peppy tone, before smiling and cutting himself off, looking at the detective. “nah i’m just lying. i was gonna get something to eat but someone caught my attention.”

“I see then.”

so he stood in a criminals house, making conversation with a liar and his parents were closing on a non-ethical, under the table deal. exactly where he wanted to be tonight.

“listen..this is of no offence to you whatsoever.” he begins somewhat weary, kokichi keeping a blank expression as he let him continue.

“but something like this type of nature is the last thing i’d ever want to be involved in. if i’m being completely honest, I detest this whole deal.”

kokichi snorted. “‘detest’, wow, you’re really well spoken now aren’t you?” coming down a from a sigh, he continues. “well, I didn’t expect someone like yourself to be a total brat in someone else’s house.”

“of course you would be in favour of this, you get guaranteed protection from the law.” he shook his head gently.

“wow, you’re really saving yourself here aren’t you?” he lowers his vision, pushing himself from leaning against the fireplace to move near the other.

“i have my views and my parents have their own, I just..this is all very wrong.”

“well sure, but that’s how alliances work, yeah?”

“either way—“

“look, I just met you and had a sorta good impression on you, but man you’re really killing the vibe,” he rolls his eyes, waving a hand. “what a waste of a pretty face.”

“what do my looks have anything to do—“

“look, if you got a problem with criminals or whatever the hell my parents do that’s all you, don’t drag me into this though, yeah?” he flattens a hand out, pursing a brow in a testing manner. “i’ve got my own stuff going on, ya know, being a leader and what not.”

“fine then.”

“man, really a waste though.”

he scoffs lightly. “bringing my looks into this is pretty rude..”

“well, either way I suppose this is a bummer, would’ve been nice to make a new acquaintance.”

“i find it hard to believe you would’ve enjoyed being friends with someone like me.”

“well duh, if you’re gonna be bratty about our parents deal.”

‘only furthering my reason to why i shouldn’t have come here.’ shuichi had thought about the others tone. almost perfectly on time as his thoughts were wiped away, the adults had made way out of the dinging room, the saihara’s in presence with kokichi’s mother.

“ah, so you’ve met my son I see.”

“ah..uh, yes ma’am.”

“welp! i’m bored of this now soo i’ll be leaving.” the other male had announced with a pushed smile, making no hesitation to walk away, the detective following his stride before he disappeared past the stairs going up. had he looked a little closer, he could’ve sworn he saw a trace of a smirk across his lips like before.

so, that was their son. what a cocky bastard.

the experience to say the least was something he could think back on, at the very atleast, meeting kokichi. it would’ve happened sooner or later, but his impression was surely a unique character of such.

whether or not this alliance would be long term, he wasn’t obligated to be necessarily become friends with him like with any other kid of a figure involved in a deal. he could keep his beliefs to himself, maybe it would’ve been best to not try and accidentally create a problem by saying his thoughts out loud. so long as he was friendly and didn’t get involved, he would be alright, yet still. this entire thing was to his despise.

how they managed to move into their new place of stay so quick within only a few weeks he wasn’t sure, though he knew his room was to stay somewhat bare and very clean.

he had looked over the brochure he was handed months ago by his mother. a picture of a school pictured in front, bold print of its name across. ‘imperial capitals high’, the emblem itself could look like a resemblance of a crown of some kind, perhaps a staff in the middle for order.

typical layout things typed inside from the classes, to the uniforms, to the events that were held. it didn’t seem that different from his other school, aside from the mention of dormitories, hence how clean his room would be staying. perhaps it wasn’t such a bad idea, if anything, he would be a bit grateful to be away from home.

and the separate buildings itself with its nice gardens and nearby spots for typical hangouts of kids his age and small shops seemed nice for convenience purpose as well. though he could only hope he’d adjust just fine, only transferring in a few months late.

he’d hope he could forget about a lot of things on his mind and look forward to a somewhat hopeful new beginning.

“know that your ride here was merely for only today. you have the option to walk or either use transportation on your breaks.” his mother explained from inside the car as shuichi had began pulling his things out.

“I understand..though, how do these dormitories work?”

“as far as i’m concerned, you can figure that out from a teacher or what not.” she dismisses as he shuts the door gently yet firm enough, the window moves down.

“I see then..” he says quietly, starting to walk.

“ah, wait a minute.”

“yes ma’am?”

“don’t make a fool of yourself on the first day, you still have a name to uphold.”

“of course..thank you for the ride again.” he bows with brushed away acknowledgment, the woman humming as she presses the button to make the car window go up, wheels turning and the vehicle rolling out from the entrance and down the road and leaving him there.

turning his attention away and carrying a strap bag and a duffel sized one, he enters pays the large paved stone path, and just like the picture, it wasn’t exaggerated the extent of how beautiful the cream bricked school looked from the array of clean windows and assortment of plants all around and the many many faces of students walking around.

he felt a fool just a bit, his stomach twisting with worry as he sighed, only moving forward and finding his way inside. it felt all the more elegant inside, pillars standing from the dark oak floors and the heightens ceilings to the large staircase on display nearby. he had been lucky enough to spot an open door nearby leading to the main office, giving him some hope to figure out what to do about settling in.

to his luck as he walked in, the woman behind the desk offered a keen smile. “ah, I take it you’re the transfer student, yes?”

a sigh of relief softly escaping shuichi’s lips as he nodded, turning to her.

“ah, I am yes. I was just wondering how I would put my belongings in my dorm?”

“oh that’s simple! you can just leave your luggage here so it can be unpacked later in the day,” the woman stands from her chair, pointing to an empty spot near another empty office desk. “wouldn’t want you carrying that all through the classes.”

“I see, thank you.” he says, pulling the large duffel bag off of his shoulder and setting it on the floor need the desk, standing from where he kneeled for the woman to hum.

“do you have your schedule on you?”

“I do.” he responds quickly, patting at one of his pant pockets before pulling out a folded piece of paper. “though I’m not sure where I’d find most of these classes..”

“there’s signs posted all around the halls pointed to different rooms, just follow them and you’ll get used to it.” she hums from where she had sat back in her chair, seeking to type something in the computer.

“okay, got it.”

“as for your living situation, the dormitories are in a separate building right next door to the school.” she explains, continuing to look across her computer while giving equal attention to shuichi.

“they’re separated by males and females, offer a common room with laundry and shower rooms also separated by males and females. as for the capacity hold, you’ll be sharing the dork itself with a roommate.” finally looking up from the computer, she finishes. “you’ll be residing in room 505.”

the idea of a roommate hadn’t exactly crossed his mind, despite the idea itself being something that should have been common thought. nonetheless, he nods. “so..I can come down here when classes are dismissed to grab my luggage?”

“oh no, we’ll have someone transport your things to your room.”

even the convenience was a little too good to be true. perhaps this wouldn’t be such a bad start.

“right, thank you once again.”

“of course, you have a good day, alright?” she responds in a sweet tone, offering a small wave as he nods and waves back, leaving the room and down the halls. with a look at his paper and to one of the signs posted nearby, he sighs. starting his walk again, with a little more confidence.

by the time he had made it to lunch, he surely had enough of an impression on how the school would run. a typical setting of privacy within the building and many kids from different families but one underlying similarity, the similarity that there was that sense highly valued power within alliances.

a good handful of bratty kids sucked up in their parents business just to be heavily influenced enough to make it a runway walk of their own popularity for their talents.

he despised the gossip he would hear from others passing by or in class with free periods. despised with the put together look of the black pin-striped pants, grey knit sweater and white collar shirt uniform showed a lot of deceit lying underneath. though surely, if he couldn’t have atleast one person he found connection with for familiarity, he could stay to himself.

keep up his family name, hold up his grades per usual of course. at the very least, keep closing those cases his uncle assigned him if he was showing to get pulled out of classes like last time. how could he even find time for that if he was in a dormitory? opening his bottle of tea, he brings the rim to his lips thoughtlessly.

“hey, is it alright if i sit here?” a voice asked.

bringing his drink down and twisting the cap back on, he looks up quickly.

a young man with a delicate looking face waited for his answer, freckles adorning his face faintly to compliment soft looking brown eyes. dirty blonde hair cut short with darker roots.

shuichi was quick to nod. “ah— uhm, of course, yeah— sorry.”

moving past the stutter, the other man sat at the round table across from him, the umbrella in the middle shading him nicely as he ate some his tray of food with a sigh.

“yeah, you wouldn’t believe how hard it is to find and keep a seat around here.” he says with a cut off breath.

“ah, really? I didn’t notice.”

“you’ll get to notice it.” the boy shrugs, starting to unwrap his sandwich as he gave him a curious look. “I saw you go in the office earlier with a heavy bag. guessing you transferred?”

“yeah..are you new as well?”

“hell no,” he chuckles lightly, taking a bite of his sandwich and covering his mouth with a fist while he chewed. “i’ve been stuck in this place since i was a kid. your parents got any business here or what?”

“something to do with that..my mother recently got an opportunity to work somewhere higher up and my uncle owns a detective agency around here so..I guess it was for convenience purposes.”

“an agency? bet your family’s filthy rich.”

“I try not to discuss it as much as I can,” shuichi admits, clearing his throat and glancing down.

“no, no! it’s cool. kinda hard to find humble people in a school full of spoiled brats, ya know?” he hums, setting down his other half eaten piece of sandwich.

“I see..”

“what’s your name again?”

“shuichi.”

the boy seemed to be taken back just a bit with his eyebrows raised in surprise. “saihara?” he smiles, pointing a finger. “oh shit, you’re that kid that solved that murder case when he was thirteen.”

“it wasn’t really my case to be assigned in the first place.”

“ah come on don’t discredit yourself— if I solved something like that faster than the cops, i’d definitely flaunt it.”

“right then..” opening his bottle of tea again, shuichi hovers it over his lips. “what’s your name?”

“kenji.”

“ah, like the kotoro family?” he perks up slightly. “your family owns the docks down by the shorefront, right? i’ve heard about it before.”

“my grandad technically owns the place but it’s sorta a generational hand down. big fans of boating and fishing.”

“it sure sounds more interesting than solving mysteries..” he chuckles dryly.

“you get settled in a dorm yet?”

“i only got the number so far, though i’m not quite sure who my roommate is.” shuichi admits, running a finger in a swipe across the table quickly.

“oh yeah, that’s always fun to find out. hey if you get a decent percent i’d be willing to trade my sleazebag of a roommate.” kenji sighs, crossing his arms across the table.

“surely there’s a way to find out who it is based off the number, right? maybe a numerical way of sorting?”

“beats me, you’ll be lucky to get anyone except mr. class president,” he hums, finishing the other part of his sandwich, fist covering his mouth to chew for a few seconds. “then again that asshole probably reserved his own room somehow.”

“class president?”

“kokichi.”

“ah..” shuichi nodded at first, though slowly realising as he furrowed his brows. “oh.”

kenji seemed somewhat amused at the others expression, smiling slightly. “hey I don’t blame ya, i’m surprised people here actually like him. you don’t get to walk around like you own the place just because you got voted three years in a row.”

shuichi’s returned to an expression of curiosity, a glance around the surrounding area outside at the many other students sat at tables, then back. “maybe it’s because of his policies..?”

“still, doesn’t exactly make up for being cocky all the time.” he was quick to reply, upset at his own thought of the boy and seemingly to follow wherever shuichi had looked around. “hate that guy— he lies like it’s a hobby, he’s arrogant as hell, you could go on really.”

“right then.”

“usually he’s—“ he extends a finger pointing to another table some good few feet away, elongated and with a trash can and display of plants by if, shuichi following his direction. “yeah, there, over there—“ there had seemed to be a sum of students already sat down and talking. “probably skipping or something, he can barely keep his own group of friends so he just hops around with people he finds funny to entertain talking with or whatever.”

“I don’t think we should be talking poorly about someone who’s not here to defend themselves.”

kenji takes his hand back, crossing his arms on the table. “awh come on, nobody likes him.”

“still, it’s not a good thing to do.” he ushers slightly, taking a quick glance down before having his attention pulled back over at the sound of voices raising slightly.

whether it was exaggerated or not, kokichi seems to have his own way of strolling by. walking with a large sum of confidence like he didn’t care that much as well, and the presence of the top buttons of his uniform undone and a black tie not in sight to add to that idea. a grin spread across his lips as he greeted the other students, sliding himself on top of the table to sit like a king looking down at his noble peasants. feet propped on the bench and legs spread without a care as he began talking with hands.

even the sun hitting down on them seemed to illuminate him in a bright way despite a prior description of his character. shuichi eventually smothered whatever thought he was having and turned back.

“alright then..if it upsets you that much, i’ll keep my thoughts to myself.” kenji affirms, shuichi lifting his gaze slightly with a nod. “that works.”

“so..want me show you around the place?”

“i’d appreciate that.”

a long day finally at the end, finding where he needed to be wasn’t nearly as hard as it would have been thanks to kenji. which, he was obviously very grateful. the many tips and insight he’d throw out as well. as far as he thought, things seemed to be going well. and now he just needed to meet his roommate and unpack.

it was a typical building you would expect for dormitories, just a bit more high up and out together as the rest of the school way. elevators and stairs, and each hallways paved with wood as were the doors and smooth cream walls. like the woman at the desk had said so, his things had already been dropped off by his door, the gold plaque reading ‘505’ as he remembered.

there was still enough light in the day for him to unpack and not necessarily feel so tired, so perhaps reading a book in the common room or back in bed would be a good way to relax.

opening the door with his duffel bag, the sights around this school never seemed to disappear. a wonderfully spaced wood panelled room like the halls, two beds on either side of the room, shelves, closets, and a carpeted bay window in the middle, displaying a view of the city from a high view. perhaps this school experience wouldn’t be so terrible.

under the assumption his roommate was doing something elsewhere, he began to unpack. setting up the empty side of the rooms bed, taking the opportunity to use the shelves for books he packed, putting his clothes away in the closet and so forth.

it was a simple layout, but comfortable enough for him. though as he would try and finish straightening the edges of his blue duvet over the mattress, the door had opened behind him, feet stopping in place and causing him to turn.

there kokichi stood, a small bag in hand and a taken back look on his face.

“uhh…what the hell are you doing.” he chuckles dryly enough to push the point across he was not amused. shuichi inspects his tone, tuning his head aside then back.

“this is my room as well, I got my dorm number today.”

“well then there’s obviously been a mistake, i’m not supposed to have a roommate.”

“ah, i’m sure that’s not possible. the capacity—“

“i have special privileges, saihara, I hate sharing.” he cuts in, moving to his side and set the small bag in hand on his desk, revealing snacks and drinks of assortments.

“okay then..” he replies with a cleared throat. “this is where I was assigned though, so there’s not much I can do about it.”

“well I don’t care, I want you out.” he says in a monotonous way, revealing a mini fridge underneath his desk, he crouched down and puts the contents of the bag inside, shutting he door and standing again.

”I specifically told the damn principal I wanted a room to myself, so this isn’t gonna work.” kokichi explains, crumbling the plastic bag in annoyance and tossing it in a small bin near the foot of his bed.

“wh— I just finished unpacking, I cant go anywhere.”

“sure you can,” he suddenly pushes through with a clearly fake smile, offering a hand to the door. “the couches in the common room aren’t half bad for sleeping.”

“this is my assigned room, i’m not leaving.” shuichi sighs, turning his back to finish adjusting his duvet.

“this is bullshit,” kokichi scoffs. “first, you decide to be all disrespectful with someone you just met, now you’re taking up my room.” in response, the detective whips around, annoyance in his voice. “the room is split in half, so i think you should just accept I’ll be here.”

the leader on the other hand, didn’t have a shift in his expression as he lazily put his hands up in a “defensive” way. “and you’re still being disrespectful.”

“believe me, i’m not the most enthusiastic about this either.”

“oh fuck you, i’m an amazing roommate.”

“you just said—“

“seriously, you’re supposed to be a detective and you can’t even be respectful to someone you’re supposed to be friendly with?” he clicks his tongue, setting down his hands and moving to shrug. “you’re disappointing me.”

this felt like a headache forming into something stronger hearing him talk, though to continue entertaining this would only surely secure he would have a migraine the next morning. and he wanted to relax a bit, change out of his uniform.

he lets out a sigh. “where’s the bathroom.”

“end of the hall,” kokichi rolls his eyes at the end of his entertainment of conversation, leaning himself back in bed. arms behind his head. grabbing at some clothes from his closet to make his leave and without another word, shuichi leaves, shutting the door behind him and walking to the end of the hall to the bathroom.

“soo, who’s your new roommate?” kenji asked from from his desk, setting his pencil to sit evenly at the top, shuichi who was sat beside him with a book in hand for free period.

“kokichi ouma.”

that alone made kenji drop his pencil off the side of his desk, a half offended look.

“y—“

“please don’t say anything..” shuichi sighed with a somewhat firm look at him before looking back and turning the page, kenji slowly sinking into his seat.

“that’s..” he begins, sitting back up with a sigh. “i’m astounded, how did that even happen?”

“it must have just been a part of the arrangement,” he hums, bookmarking his page before thinking. “everyone is paired into two for capacity purposes and I transferred in a bit late, so I assume they put me with him since he didn’t have a roommate prior to me.”

“and believe me if he did, he would’ve totally killed ‘em.” kenji smiles lightly. “and here I thought mr class president could make a command and get whatever he wanted.”

“it does seem like he has a lot of authority on his hands, with his talent and at school.” shuichi continues in thought, fingers curled by his chin. “so has he always been class president for his policies? or perhaps he made a way to rig the system? it’s plausible, given his character..”

“you’re mumbling, man.”

“ah..sorry,” he clears his throat with embarrassment, crossing his arms neatly across his desk. “he makes me curious he’s, ahm…quite the character.”

“and you’ll never meet another scumbag like that.” kenji nods, leaning back in his seat, a somewhat disgusted face at the thought of the leader.

“you seem to really hate him..is there a reason?”

“awh man, now i’m getting interrogated.” he joked.

“ah, it’s nothing like that—“

“i’m kidding, i’m kidding.”

“is it wrong for me to perhaps assume you have a personal problem with him?”

“it’s uh…something like that, i guess.” kenji muttered on, glancing at the flat of his desk, shuichi humming.

“could I asked what happened?”

“eh it’s kinda—“ he cut himself off, making a strange hand gesture to himself, cocking his head to the side afterwards. “i don’t know.”

shuichi was quick to excuse himself. “you don’t have to tell me if you’re not comfortable.”

“it’s nothing crazy that happened..just like..family crap he had going on i guess?”

“ah..”

“he’ll deny all he wants about his past and pretend to be this guy everyone should respect but whatever”

“that’s quite vague, though you seem to have some decent knowledge of it i suppose..?”

“eh, he’s the embodiment of a lie now, so who knows what’s true with what he says or does.”

“noted..still..” shuichi wondered, thinking to himself quietly.

“why waste your breath talking about that guy?” asked a voice, shuichi looking over at a girl who turned halfway in her chair by the wall in front of him, her posture and expression making her appear quite frightening, the frame of her crimson eyes peering beneath her brunette bangs to only exaggerate it further.

“ah, uhm…”

“there’s nothing to wonder about him, and keeping his name in your mouth is only continuing his importance whether you’re doing it on purpose or not.”

kenji softened his expression with a defeated sigh. “whatever maki, let me hate someone if i want.”

“sure.” she blankly answers back with disinterest, glancing at shuichi. “..that’s the new transfer?”

“shuichi saihara.” he answered for the detective, nudging at the other. “kid detective from the newspaper, ya dig?”

“how old are you again?” she takes another look at the detective. “..he seems like he’d be too timid for that kind of job.”

“ah, well, it wasn’t my case to sol—“

“don’t mind that, he likes putting himself down.”

“right then.” and without another word, turns back in her seat, kenji shrugging it off to then mutter under his breath.

“don’t mind her, she’s like that to everyone— yeah, hell, you should see her ‘round kaito,” he leans back in his chair again, whistling a breath quickly. “can’t tell if they’re together or something or just like a dumbass bothering another loser.”

shuichi furrows his brows. “ah, uh..that’s not a really nice way to refer to people.”

“trust me, if you’ve never met a dumbass before just wait till you meet that guy.”

“still, you keep mentioning these names I don’t know how to respond..”

“right, right— still gotta get you to know the ropes around this place…and know people and whatever not I guess.” he smiles lightly.

moving through the halls wasn’t as bad once he had gotten used to knowing at least at surface level where he classes where located, whether or not he’d find out about the use of an easier path was something to think of in the near future, a minor investigative matter he thought.

further more, at the very least he knew every time he was able to walk about the school he could take in every architectural detail of the building to the smallest design. how it seemed to stand just a bit more out from any other scholastic setting he would have seen or heard about.

perhaps he’d think maybe in the luminosity of the light that shine between the windows or gaps in the corridors up high connecting between buildings to view the outside let him feel a bit light with every scent of the trees or plants around. the specific detailing of such to take away the school setting and give less pressure, something book like in a setting for him to enjoy, maybe like an old castle or such.

he was sure enough to keep his attention mostly within the distance of kenji’s voice as they walked to another class together yet still keeping notes of wherever their feet led.

“big fan of the school.”

“is that a question or..?”

“whatever.”

“it’s..uh— it’s different, not in a bad sense of course.” he hummed, awkwardly pulling at his uniform collar before looking back aside, yet seemingly to bring him to another subtopic. “i’ve heard of students having the option to customise their uniforms at other buildings.”

“nah, not here,” kenji let’s out a large breath before they moved up the stairs past more students. “yeah they’re uh— yeah they’re like extra strict around here just cause we’re at the center of talentist district basically.”

“so I suppose it’s double of a burden then, keep your appearance and title up high around your peers and with your family business,” shuichi answers, lowering his voice quietly as they had reached the next floor, not as many students around.

“it seems like a lot.”

“you seem like the type to enjoy uniforms, so i’m sure that first part won’t be that hard.”

“it’s not just about informs though, it’s the social aspect…having to stay up high and a good example around everyone, who you hang out with, your studies— with the addition of being at the will of whatever your family is dictated as by how good they are with how they were born with whatever ability.”

kenji raises his brows. “philosophical guy, aren’t you?”

the detective seemed to recoil slightly, clearing his throat. “it just seems like the truth—“ his breath ripping from his throat as he felt a violent hit between his shoulder and chest, stumbling him aside.

“shit— what—“ kenji quickly jerked his head, kneeling by the ground to help the other who had fell, though seemed quick to get back up, finding the source.

“whoops, better watch where you’re going.” a somewhat cheery voice lowered with a paired impish grin over his shoulder, the perfectly framed porcelain face of the liar striking back at the detective. he, who stumbled within himself, a choke like feeling of something to catch him off guard from his gaze, slowly allowing himself to stand with a clearing of his throat.

“except for him..” kenji muttered, still staring off at him. “most rebellion he gets is keeping those shirt buttons undone and acting like a bastard.”

‘evidently so’ shuichi would think to himself, rubbing at his shoulder with another sigh, containing their walk. even as he had disappeared from sight, the detective still seemed to wonder why he stared at blank area.

he could very easily drift away from any other thought with a watchful eye off into his book, words after words stacking and melting between sentences as he carefully turned the page at every pace. the somewhat bitter peace in the room despite the leader rather carelessly rummaging through his closet loudly seemed to come back and forth, he wished to keep his composure to focus, though denying it.

he brought his eyes up to skim over at the other man, his hand leaned against the wall next to the wardrobe as he groaned and complained, moving his freehand throwing around. the muscles of his hands tightening and softening based on his grip of movement, other hand moving to the back of his unruly curls to hold at them stressfully between thin fingers.

how he knew better and to smother his thoughts.

“ya know…it’s not nice to stare, detective.” the other seemed to lower his voice accordingly, his head moving over to look at him as such, such unreadable traits across his eyes. shuichi back to his book quietly.

“i don’t appreciate how you pushed me earlier.”

“oh that’s what your still crying about?” he waved his hand dismissively, turning back to his closet, looking between two hands full of balled shirts. “not my fault you were paying attention to that loser you couldn’t see where you were going.”

shuichi lowered his book. “i stumbled.”

“still your fault.”

“or you could just…not purposefully hurt people.”

“oh yeah, I forgot that was the case,” drops one of them into the drawer inside, grabbing at a pair of worn down jeans. “I was sure to give enough of my strength to make you tumble but not enough for severe damage.”

“and that’s supposed to make me feel better?” shuichi gently scoffed at the idea, mocked even.

“of course, I would hate to see your pretty face be hurt.”

“what could you mean by that?”

“ohhhh nothing more than just..” he trailed off, shutting the closet, set of clothing tossed on the bed with a free hand still placed plan against the door and a watchful look at the detective, shuichi looking back.

“doing you a little favour.”

“you’re despicable and I can’t begin to understand you.”

“oh boo, the fraud of a detective can’t fathom how bad of a person I am.”

shuichi only traced his eyes elsewhere, aside from the others bed and narrowing. “what are those for?”

“your curiosity for my affairs don’t concern you, do they saihara?” he plainly smiled with a threatening tone under a sing song pep to his voice, grabbing at the clothes and heading to the door, pausing. “if i don’t get out of this damn uniform to make my business elsewhere i’ll die.”

‘i see then..’ he would think to himself, returning his gaze to his book.

though strangely, kokichi raised a brow. “awh,” tilted his head against the frame of the door to look back with a blank expression. “not even daring to question further, huh? that’s too bad..” he drawls in a lowered tone.

“well..given how you stated your words and the type of attire you have picked out, it’s easy to assume you’re eager to meet up with someone or— some people..a hangout at best.” he replied simply, turning his page.

kokichi gaze slowly lifting to a soft way, only to quickly compose and go back to being blank, humming afterwards. “whatevs.. if i stay here any longer and listen to you rant like some wannabe genius my brain will melt from the lack of entertainment.”

“if that’s what you mean to say.” shuichi muttered, kokichi shrugging it off and leaving the room, shutting the door promptly behind him.

though with the barrier between the two, he stared at the ground for a few seconds. had he been the fool to give himself away with such little hints at his true actions? leave a trail for the detective to figure him out? intriguing, it was.

the detective was intriguing.

he smugly smiled to himself with a grin of perfect teeth as he walked the hall.

Chapter 2: 2.

Chapter Text

“and that’s him over there.”

“hm?”

“the kaito dude I was telling you about—“ kenji shrugged, lazily pointing a hand over the railing by the field of where the gym class at the period was taking place, supposedly towards one of the taller ones on the field and his prominently spiked style of hair and toned muscles.

“his families got this whole thing with astronomy and the guy wants to be an astronaut himself..” he crosses his arms on the railings, chin on arms. “flaunts it around like he’s the coolest guy around but he’s never been to space— really good in science and what not but he sucks at any logical decision ever..you wonder how someone survives for so long.”

shuichi glanced back at kenji. “you seem to have..certain options about everyone.”

“what can i say? i’m an observer— i mean, you’ll get to know a lot of kids obviously soon, it’s like a big fuckin’ pressure circle for superiority in here.”

“I think I saw him having a discussion with a girl in my biology class last week,” he hums gently. “I never got around to catching her name..she had some wild blonde curls and talked…ah, very vulgarly to him..”

“that’s miu for ya.”

“ah, yes, miu iruma.” shuichi nods. “I was only really informed that her parents are the leaders at towa industry for the machinery they put out in the latest technology.”

“yup, if there’s one person who’s easy to call bullshit on anyone she’s the one…with additional disgusting humour, ‘least she has the confidence I guess.” kenji shrugs.

“it sure seems that way..” he gently laughs.

“you doing anything after classes are out?” he moves his head up, tilting it after, shuichi catching his gaze.

“ah, actually my uncle requested I come in for case finalising later..i’m sorry.”

“nah don’t apologise, sounds important anyhow.”

“not exactly, it’s mostly just a stack of files cases that need to be looked over to assure there weren’t any missing parts or gaps before putting away as ‘closed’ for good..” he explained simply as he held against the railing, glancing at his nails. “fairly, i’m only really good as the check boy unless the rare time I’m needed to solve something big.”

“awh come on man, seriously, you’re way better than you make yourself out to be than some check boy.”

“right then..”

“alright, alright, I get it, not a big talker..” kenji softly hummed, finally lifting himself away from the railing, shuichi seeing the other with a watchful eye in his careless look across a perfectly put together porcelain face before grinning. “we could still hit up the convenience corner and park if you get out early though, yeah?”

shuichi smiling idly and softening his gaze again with a nod. “i’m sure I can see how it plays out..”

nothing had changed much since the move ‘work’ wise. he was in the same building, looking at familiar papers or folders alike. writing and looking over crucial details in sincerity.

he was content with the familiarly alike, though knew again and again he could grow tired from what he knew would never end in the trail of clues he was stuck in. knew he was to chase and did hire out every problem thrown his way for that was his written story way ahead of his birth.

at the very least, he had dreams as a child, those restless nights of being half asleep with sweat coating his forehead and a book clasped near him, he wasn’t sure what he wanted. he had dreams like any other child, but he didn’t dream nearly enough as many others did.

he couldn’t ever dare climb the mountain heroic measure like the light his parents were shone in, or those in his family before him, not good enough for such a feat. but hopefully after falling asleep, he’d hope to figure out where he could find belonging as he grew older.

and that was something he never found, only just being lucky enough to be pushed into a talent to not be shunned out further more.

a depressing idea he hated to overthink, yet time and time again hopelessly fell victim to. passing time on the clock in his mind and physically on the beige wall gave him a sense of hope considering his near done pile, and a man in a button down and typical setting like attire stood by who he knew as his own uncle.

“seems like you got a lot done today.”

“ah, it wasn’t that big of a pile though..”

“oh get over yourself, kiddo,” the man chuckles, nudging at his shoulder gently before wiping a hand across his pant leg. “it’s a bit past your free time, how about you get out of here and back to school?”

“you mean it?” shuichi seemed to light up ever so slightly, the other man delighted at the sight.

“surely with that hope you have an affair of sorts planned with a peer from school.”

“something of that sort..thank you so much again.” he nodded with a bow towards the other man after he grabbed his bearings away from the desk.

“oh none of that, i’ll round everything up and finish what’s left. you have fun with your friend.”

“right then, have a good night, uncle.”

“you too, kiddo.” he assures, clasping at his shoulder briefly, shuichi finishing with collecting his belongings to stride off for the door.

a gentle wave for cool air over a warm close to sunset sky left room for comfortable warmth as the two turned around the corner and into the store, bell ringing above the door and the detective setting his bag aside to observe along the aisles. an almost nostalgic sense waving over him with the sudden change in temperature inside to how everything was arranged.

“is there anything particularly special at the park you were curious about?” he asks.

“it’s just like any other park.” kenji answers simply, grabbing a drink from the refrigerated shelf and turn over his shoulder after. “i mean they got a water fountain with perfect shade for reading if that’s what you’re asking.”

“that does sound like a peaceful place for reading, actually..” shuichi chuckles from beside him, glancing along the beverage options before grabbing at a plain tea bottle. “i was more or wondering if there was anything specific you liked about the park, I suppose.”

“lots of running in general if you’ve got a lot of friends to invite.” he answers from his stride away to another row in search of some sweet snack, kneeling down. “okay some music, maybe throw a frisbee or whatever, water prank games and such.”

“water prank games?” shuichi inquires, finishing his look around to look at the other, making a glance back with a bag of some sort in his hand and purple fruit illustrated in front.

“water balloons, nerf gun wars— all that cool summer crap and pulling jokes with everyone..” he stands back up with a casual smile, walking with him to the front counter. “telling you, it’s the best way to spend summer.”

“ah, I see then..”

“I could get a few people to round up at the park at some point, you could join.”

“i’m not exactly the biggest fan of the water.”

“seriously—?” he seems to take back in surprise, shuichi only nodding simply, taking a card from his wallet to hand to the cashier. taking it back once finished. “shoot..you can still come though.”

“you have a lot of friends I take it?”

“just kids I hang around, like the ones in my neighbourhood or whatever— even now some classmates im still pretty friendly with.” he explained, over the bell ringing as they exited the store, starting their walk to the park, letting the sun shine down gently in luminosity.

“shoot, whether or not we’re crazy different you’re still cool to hang around.”

“you’ve known me only a few days..”

“so? i can still keep a decent judgment on someone and further it the more i learn.” the other shrugs, popping open his drink box and sticking the straw in. shuichi admiring how easily and carelessly he had said it with honest before gently smiling. “if you say so..”

like a point made in more truth, their approach in the area showed no difference from any other park. grass, trees, the typical playground layout and not typically, the water fountain made in point under a large tree for shade, truthfully enough a quite good spot for pondering of the further knowledge shuichi admired.

though seemingly alone from the time they walked in to relaxing by the fountain and talking about whatever came up, the view of more people had came in eventually by time.

merely blank heads from afar though kenji peering his attention up between throwing grape flavoured snacks in his mouth, a signalling head nod to the few teens with a friendly demeanour.

assuming an affiliation with how the other boy spoke clearly about earlier, shucihi investigated further as the few teens approached with conversation, speaking loudly to get their point across as they got closer.

“news flash, the water is the other way, loser!” the girl yelled out, kenji holding back a cheap snicker, the other boy shaking his head. “hey, hey, told ya he’d be here— what’s up, man?”

“nothing, nothing—“

“oh shit, that’s the transfer, huh?” miu said? observing the keen boy before finding her own spot on an empty table to sit a tip, the spiky haired astronomer with an overwhelming demeanour speaking loudly.

“hell yeah, about time we had a new guy ‘round here— or— or chick, either way is good.”

“ah, you must be kaito, right…?”

“luminary of the stars right here!”

“fraud,” miu mocked, sticking her tongue out as she fixed a loose curl. “that fucker is never getting off of earth.”

“you could atleast believe the impossible is possible with enough dreaming.”

“ya know where dreaming gets you? good looks and a fuck tom of money like most of us.” she chuckles, kenji waving a hand. “alright, you guys are gonna scare him away.”

“that’s..mostly what everyone at school seems to have in mind though I see,” shuichi observes, awkwardly adding along before he put his lips to the rim of his drink bottle. “money.”

“says the one under a familial policing scheme.”

“pardon?”

“oh come on, like most cops aren’t just dirty fuckers doing shit to get money.”

“alright, calm it.” kenji interjected.

“no, no it’s— I understand what she means..”

“hell, I could do illegal shit for a quick cash grab but you wouldn’t see me let a group of murderers get away with killing innocent families or whatever.”

“hey now! you just met the guy.”

“you did too, dumbass, you were saying stuff too.”

“well…”

though seemingly invited as a nice welcoming of other people into knowing, the detective seemed to feel the need to turn it away, at the very least prove it wrong. though, he knew fork his own position there was little he could say about whatever affairs his family had. he knew very well of it all, and he didn’t even wish to go into detailing of what he knew was a terrible idea of that alliance.

“just because my mother and father have gotten into terrible situations doesn’t necessarily mean I believe in the same things..”

“oh..yeah, no— fuck no, i didn’t fucking say that just like, i’m saying in general or whatever.”

“now you seem remorseful,” kenji rolls his eyes.

“fuck it and shove it, ken.”

“i would..take it that you two seem to have some familiarity?”

“she was one of the neighbour kids i grew around. saw her near the water and swimming a lot.”

“hey, just cause I have the brains for brilliant ideas everyday to flaunt doesn’t mean i can’t also enjoy shit like swimming.”

“yeah, too bad your hair can’t take it after it dries.”

“and for a family that’s big with boats you can barely swim for shit.”

“eh, i’ve gotten decent.” he hums, shuichi slowly levelling into the conversation with ease as the subject digressed elsewhere, though still that sense of knowing exactly the one thing they all had in common with being at that school.

“yeah uh…i mean, sorry or whatever for saying that shit about you I guess.”

“it’s alright.”

“and it’s to no offence to you, of course! though…i guess the whole saihara name isn’t exactly as lighthearted sounding to whoever reads deep in those newspaper articles.”

“wait, you’re literate?” kenji snorts at the astronomer.

“shove it or i’ll knock you out!”

“no, it’s fine, i..see what you’re saying..”

“must suck being those bastards kid—“

“only son! shit, you’ve got a lot of wealth your way but fuck, that pressure has gotta be ass.” miu interrupted, whistling.

“it could be worse..”

“now that’s a good mindset! keep the positive forward and never let the negative lead you to the darkness!”

“watch out, we have socrates the second in the flesh.” a lazy smirk tugging at kenji’s lips, shuichi following lead with a smile after which the other seemed to catch.

“don’t push it, dumbass..”

“in sincerity…i don’t want to come across as wanting to start trouble with anyone whatsoever for whatever my family does.”

“it’s no big deal, you’re your own person after all and they can’t dictate that.”

an inspiring and uplifting meaning, though the irony was the complete opposite for shuichi’s being. he smiled weakly and brushed it off. he let it continue, let the conversation carry on and listen in, giving his own input wearily every now and then. and the shaggy haired teen next to him seeming to keep levels between them in conversation. giving glances and furthering subtopics or such.

the quiet walk back to his dormitory seemed to leave a gap between himself and the air around him, somewhat missing the sensation of walking, the surrounding of another. he was sure the end of the night could give him peace of mind, and yet something about the level of them talking seemed to put him off just a little. despite a moment of welcome arms, he was aware he still had not much belonging entirely, nor was there truly any really good nor bad people, though that was a given considering the status of the environment. he knew to atleast keep what was true to himself in his thoughts and actions.

suddenly something seeming to drag him from his mind with a buzzing sensation in his pocket as he was just a few feet away from the dormitory.

shuffling in his pocket for his phone, he pulled it to reveal the contact name, a drop in his stomach turning into a slow twist. with much hesitation, he still answered the contact, pressing the phone to his ear.

“mother?”

“I’m surprised you answered after six rings, you typically pick up after the second one, what was so important?”

“ah, I was returning to my dormitory for the night and I was focused on walking.”

“I don’t need your cheap lies.”

“I apologise.”

“very well then. given how some events have transpired recently and surely you’re well aware of the terms and conditions of the deal, I expect you home friday evening to attend dinner.”

“a family dinner?”

“goodness no, use your brain. the alliance deal.”

“ah…”

“aside from your studies and occasion under the table meetings, it’s only formal the family we’re keeping ties with should sit aside us over a meal to further that trust and comfort. I can only hope I don’t hear you mope about their son.”

“a dinner at our house—? mother, I don’t—“

“am I hearing back talk?”

“not at all, but I think—“

“you don’t think, I think and your father thinks. you have no say in this whatsoever.” the woman’s voice from the other line seemed to unreasonably raise ever so slightly, shuichi holding the phone by his ear just a bit tighter.

“I didn’t think at sixteen i’d have to explain to you to keep your nose out of adult business and mind your own. you only need to worry about your studies and keeping the name title up and high.”

“seventeen.”

“pardon?”

“i’m seventeen.” he seemed to mutter shamelessly. “my birthday was in september..”

“well don’t hold that against me, I was very busy around that time.”

“I apologise.”

“just keep your mouth shut and dress appropriately for the occasion. shall I not see you at the dinner table and you make a fool out of me, im sure we can make an arrangement to clear your conscience about that decision. am I making myself clear?”

“yes ma’am, understood.”

“very good. I will see you friday evening.”

and without anymore words, the line went dead, letting shuichi to allow himself a breath from his lips escape in relief, setting his phone back in his pocket. to ‘clear his conscious’ seemed to be a very common saying in the household. yes; just another friendly way to water over the idea of punishment he could only know so easy to avoid. though he hated the idea, and hated this deal, he could be sure to persist had he kept his head somewhat at a level way.

no more further thoughts and finally entering his dorm in a tired state, he shrugged off his backpack quietly and began looking though his closet to grab at pajamas. to no surprise, the leader relaxed in his own bed, legs spread and a video game console held on his chest, illuminating in the dim room.

“it’s getting late..” he muttered.

“thanks for the reminder, mom.”

pushing aside the sarcasm, he hesitated with his question. though he gained the knowing to open his mouth, kokichi quickly cutting him off.

“just letting you know, i’m not exactly the biggest fan of deal arrangements like dinner either.”

he turned his head slightly, silently shutting his closet door with hesitance. “how did..”

“the walls aren’t that soundproof and your little phone call wasn’t that hard to hear.”

“ah..” he seemed to keep a tight hold on the clothes in his hands, keeping an awkward stance by his side of the room yet keeping an examine eye across the leader and his position, finally putting a stop to whatever game he had been playing to look at the him, only barely illuminated by the light seeping through the bay window into the room.

“listen…about the deal, and how i’ve been acting..perhaps we could put aside our differences and—“

“so are you gonna keep stalling or what?”

shuichi stopped in his own tracks, back pedalling. “I’m sorry..?”

“you’re not gonna hold those clothes forever, right? you should get dressed in something more comfortable before talking.”

“…what.”

“hey, just suggesting a less awkward stance for you over there.” he shrugs, a smile coming across his lips devilishly. “though i’d love to hear whatever perverted thought went through your mind just now, saihara.”

“th— that’s not— that— what—?”

“wow, and you’re much easier to tease than I thought before, huh? this will be fun.”

“enough of that, I—“ he was quickly to sigh and clear his thoughts. “whatever differences we have, I’m sure we can..put them aside temporarily for some time..maybe— just maybe, at the very least try to understand each other.”

kokichi only snorted, leaning back on his hands from where he sat in the edge of the bed. “lame..let’s go back to the topic of you stripping in front of me.”

“i’m serious,” he assured himself, recoiling slightly before continuing in his stance of saying, despite the careless posture of the other. “I don’t..necessarily think we absolutely have to hate each other just because of..well—“

“the fact your parents are crooked cops in the already fucked system furthering their point by assuring they can let more criminals get away with bad activity?”

“that..yes.”

“not to get way too into politics at damn near ten at night, but weren’t you the one who opposed this entirely in the first place.”

“I hate the very act of it to my bone through and through! …but we’re not our parents, so…I’m sorry, kokichi, and I mean that entirely…I was wrong to make judgements about you when I barley knew you and you barely knew me. therefore, maybe we could get a stance of..perhaps understanding each other and try to find peace through this.”

cruising through a simple yet thorough explanation allowed the detective to flow and ease through the worry from before, hit every explanation to a degree, though the other still compelling careless.

yet despite that, something lingering underneath, the detective only finishing his way of speaking as he fully took in the position of the other, truly his own investigative way of examining the other in the window luminescent. searching for something.

“uh huh…understanding..” he muttered.

“yes..given time, i’m sure that could come about.”

“is that so?” he furthered the question, lowering his tone enticingly, head tilted to push it a bit more. and the detective only seemed to feel that strange sensation in his chest again.

something he wasn’t quite sure what to name or to describe, but knowing he was definitely curious of the others mannerisms. to saying of which, the other slowly pushed himself off the edge to make his approach at the detective. shuichi quick to feel defensive and hike his shoulders up slightly, keeping his eye contact at bay as much as he could, though failing ultimately. space in between becoming closer to which, he felt ashamed to feel that strange sensation for.

“I, uh..ahm…”

“let me make something clear…” he furthered his voice lower. sultry and devilish that of a hell damned imp, something unknowing creeping forward in search for want.

the detective wasn’t sure if he could fully understand the rate of his pulse speeding at like a life or death situation despite just an enticing grin across the others face and rather close proximity, his heels stopping him at the edge of his bed before he was pushed down to sit, a somewhat merciful hand against his chest as the other stared down into him.

“no matter how mediocre your detective skills are, you’re not as special as you might think you are…”

a breath escaping shuichi’s nostrils gently as he leaned just a bit closer by his ear, casting his breath past. “you’ll be dead before you find a way to understand me.”

as he had finished his sentence, shuichi was in touch with all electricity in his nerves form the sensitivity of the others breath against his ear. thought the addition of the close proximity, and meticulous placement of the others hand not leaving his chest only added more and more.

he couldn’t even understand himself for that feeling barely in the moment. why he seemed so drawn in yet somehow intimidated at the same time. how his shoulders never seemed to drop yet he could wish to relax against the whispers of the others sultry tone for some time.

all for the other to simply pull back rather quickly and smile, causing the detective to falter in confusion.

“whoops, I totally got ya there didn’t I..what can I say, i’m a damn good liar.” he chuckled. as soon as the detectives shoulders simply dropped, kokichi had brushed off the conversation and moved back into his bed, returning back to his state on his game console. shuichi still sitting there in process of his thoughts of those events, all of that and he still wish he was ready to go to bed to at the very least sleep it off.

“I uh— ahm…I should—“ without anymore further words and stumbling over his own mumbles, he grabbed at the pajamas that had dropped to the ground in that moment, quickly but quietly making his move to leave the room to head to the bathroom.

though just as that door shut, the overwhelming need to slap a hand over his face hit him, that fast pulse hitting him once again at the very thought of the events that had occurred. shame he had felt and much confusion. though he could know better, to just smother the thought and get changed for the night.

how badly he knew to smother the thought yet how badly he wondered, thought. would he put himself to shame wondering how that moment could have transpired further? compelled shameful to him entirely, he hated.

oh damn to the ultimate supreme leader.

“let’s only hope they have a decent array of food.”

“for all we know, those guys are all probably on weird diets or whatever.”

“alright, enough of that kokichi.”

“sir yes sir.” he chuckled in a mocking tone, leaning his head back against the car seat. “if they don’t have pork though I’m leaving.”

“fair enough of a point.” his father hummed, turning his wrist to glance at the time, setting it back in his lap again. “we have a meeting scheduled with the kuzuryu’s right after this anyhow, should this be cut short or what not, it’ll give more time for discussion.”

“exactly, a win win either way.”

“oh? from what i’m hearing you don’t sound too thrilled about this arrangement.” kokichi tested.

“nobody really likes these meal sit arounds, they’re just to increase morale and trust.” the man explained, hand gently soothing across his knee, sitting back straight again. “i still don’t trust these scumbags as far as i can concern myself, but you need to use these sorts of resources when in desperate times.”

the leader only hummed with a careless shrug, looking out the window. “glad we’re all on the same page, I guess.”

“I take it you didn’t want to be friendly to their child.” his mother chuckled, kokichi following with a smirk after.

“oh what a cruel assumption, though funny enough, he’s the one who proposed coming to an understanding about each other.”

“typical detective behaviour.”

“let it be, darling,” the man assured the woman. “and let’s be grateful for our positioning, as far as I can see, the more we can understand how this family works from face value then we can only assure strengthening ourselves for better.”

“well, you guys have fun with your illegal shit.”

“we’ve been lenient with whatever shenanigans you particate in with your band of clowns, don’t let me rethink pulling you back into our business.”

kokichi cocked a brow at the man. “man, that’s the last thing i need…not interested.”

“it’s a mediocre way of leading, petty theft and not not giving back with or without benefit just to joke around after.”

“hey c’mon, i’ve been doing this since I was thirteen.”

“hmm..there’s always room for improvement. we can only hope to see you better your position as you get older, maybe decide to affiliate yourself with more serious matters.”

“dad come on, i don’t have anything against charity or whatever, i’m just doing my own thing— and the schools wrapped around my finger pretty much.”

“what next, you’ll wrap the government around your finger and try running for prime minister?”

“just be proud of him for now and we can discuss this later.” the woman interjected with a sigh, the man defeated.

“right, though if you were more involved in this business than a solo act you could truly show for your talent.”

“what, do you don’t believe in me?”

“i believe enough in you and you know about that…and, I suppose retracing my earlier statement, that ‘anonymous’ charity last week to the food bank was rather significant.”

“and why do you think the local bank heist and that connect,” he shrugs. “i’ve got business handled.”

“fair enough, though my point still stands.”

“yeah, yeah, i know.”

“well enough of that,” the woman had interrupted as the car came to a stop. “lie your way through this.”

“not a problem.” kokichi agreed, making his way from the car and shutting the door, adjusting at his dress shirt annoyingly.

one of the first times he had been able to get a proper look at the saihara’s house, and saying the least, the architecture of the house reflected a mysterious like image or one from a fantastically imaginative setting.

dark bricks and wood, ancient seeming windows and plants all around planted perfectly. close to that of an old mansion from a storybook or such. nonetheless he shrugged it off and followed lead inside, even more wood and fancy interior with the rustic vibe it was given, a nearby scent of oak and coffee letting him stay curious.

welcomed in by the nicely dressed man and woman to leave small talk for the dinner table from the next room would show a nicely presented array of food, drinks to pour. though the leader could care less about the small talk they could speak of before sitting down, staying in the entrance area to look around the place in observance.

“dinner is about to start.”

turning around, he spots the detective finishing his stride down the staircase nearby, adjusting slightly at the sleeve of his dress shirt that lay beautifully across his chest.

“oh? i couldn’t possibly start without my dearest detective.”

another lie at the expense of simply crying his boredom, he thought to himself, nothing to be trusted from the other. although something poorly twisted inside him upon hearing the other speak. nonetheless knew well enough to smother his thoughts away.

“i’m sure.”

“don’t sound so disappointed, saihara, this should be a fun event. it’ll give you some time to try and ‘understand’ me.”

“i’ll have more than enough time to understand you eventually, i’m sure.”

“you can try.” he says blankly, bringing a finger up to gesture towards himself. “c’mon now, im sure mrs. saihara is waiting for you to come sit.”

shuichi furrowed his brows, moving past him with a stuttered sigh. “i don’t need your remarks..” kokichi only smirking as he follows into the other room from behind.

“these affairs as of recently are to my knowledge in need of negotiation.”

“surely you aren’t speaking of the scandal that broke out— not to my knowledge, anything we were involved in.”

“but of course, and you have our word of coverage for any business you do.”

“mm, and I expect you want your money soon.”

the woman of elegant blue locks chuckled with pressed lips, lifting her glass to her mouth. “it’s apart of the deal after all.”

“monetary matters aside which you’ll see soon, it’s best we enjoy this time.”

by enjoy the time as kokichi’s father seemed to firm but plainly state, he knew the more the time passed, the easier it would be to go about his night and forget the sense of awkwardness around. though, his source of entertainment seemed to spare him mercy.

“ah, I should have assumed someone affiliated with the north would have firm standards.”

“a vast country to say the least, but make no mistake I don’t care to involve myself any further with business I don’t agree with.”

“well, you are criminals after all, so that might be a lie.”

shuichi only felt the need to sink himself into his seat, shut out the embarrassment he felt being next to his mother as he stared at his plate.

“and if I recall, you’re not the most honest woman out there yourself, so i’d hold your tongue.”

“perhaps. but lying is essential to getting to the end of cases and such.”

“i can conquer to that.”

“oh well, at the very least you have your benefits and we have ours, so there’s no need to start childish bickering.” kokichi prodded into the conversation, poking his fork carelessly into his plate near the chicken, raising his eyes over to the saihara’s.

“I wouldn’t allow my son to speak to me or others in that manner, I must say.” she bitterly said with a faint smile at the boy, a gesture aimed at her own son.

“how you discipline your child isn’t of our concern, and it certainly doesn’t make you better than others for however posh you are.”

“mm, apologies— though what my wife means to say is you…have quite an enthusiastic heir.” shuichi’s father interrupted simply, wiping his mouth gently with his napkin.

“only a matter of time if he finds a partner, commitment of that type is quite beneficial and important in this line of business.”

“yeah, sure,” he dismisses in an annoyed mumble, shuichi catching his quick smirk across the table before he returns his gaze away.

“oh yes, we have yet to figure out a consort arrangement for shuichi.” his mother begins with an amused tone, though defeating it with a low chuckle. “though he’s terrible at talking among others, it will be a miracle if we find the right girl for him.”

the ouma’s seeming in sync with their knowledge of the others tone, kokichi’s mother humming. “he’s a respectable young man, i’m sure any young lady would have the honour of joining a relationship with him.”

shuichi slightly raising his head in sincerity. “thank you, ma’am..”

“enough talking.”

clearing his throat, he glances away from the conversation again, his mother starting the conversation along again. the leader from across the table keeping a watchful eye on the detective.

“an absolute high honour, im sure.” he shrugs off. “buuuut I hear her, he’s definitely not appealing to most, so he’ll have some trouble.”

shuichi glares at the other, kokichi only continuing. “yeah, he can’t even pay attention to where he’s walking in hall— totally bumped into me and bruised my arm.”

“don’t—“ he muttered.

“is this true?”

“it’s..not how he’s saying it, mother—“

“not to mention he hangs around the same person everyday, doesn’t even bother talking to his other classmates except for one occasion.”

“alright, enough of that.” kokichi’s father interjects firmly, kokichi sighing and leaning in his seat.

“mm, sounds like his behaviour— i don’t understand where he gets it from, truly, I myself was quite the social talker when I was younger.”

“you’re still quite young, dear.”

“barely thirty eight.”

“well you look put together.”

kokichi only rolled his eyes the more she talked. whoever this woman thought she was, she was quite obnoxious. shuichi began to speak in a quick manner.

“excuse me, I need to use the restr—“ his mother catching his arm. “speak up.” a tight squeeze before releasing it, a careless look from his father.

“I need to excuse myself..”

“you’re dismissed.”

and with a small bow of the head, the detective took his leave out of the dining room, kokichi slowly following his eyes across him until he was out of view, mumbling to himself.

“talk about a public humiliation ritual..”

“now, shall you all be interested, there’s dessert prepared as well.”

“talk the specifics.”

“dark chocolate cake.”

“hmm..I could take a slice, you, kokichi?”

“yeah chocolates a no, uh— ‘scuse me, i need to wash my hands.”

“the kitchen is past the stairs and to the left.” shuichi’s father pointed a finger in a directional way.

“great appreciated” he briefly smiled as he donated himself, dropping the facade as his back turned, a new conversation coming about with the adults as he exited the room.

solely a lie, as his hands present rather clean, though he couldn’t help but be curious to whether the nearest bathroom was. navigating in a way that wasn’t too sketchy but not rushed, given the pace of the dining room talk.

he took one look up and decided to make a stride up the carpeted stairs, coming across the monotonously decorated second floor, an the sound of soft running water nearby. walking towards the door where the source of sound laid, he continued to wonder to himself, keeping a good distance between himself and the door.

as the sound of water came to a stop and moments of silence following. once the door had opened, the detective was startled slightly.

“well from what i just saw, your mom’s a really delightful woman.” he begins with sarcasm, shuichi slowly wiping his hands in an anxious matter across each other before shutting the door behind himself.

“she just has her own methods of parenting.”

“sure.”

“it’s none of your concern,” he says bitterly. “and why did you start that.”

“what? i’m just stating the facts, you can’t exactly expect to get anywhere with how you act.”

“like you’re any better.”

“i am better.”

“alright, great conversation, kokichi.” he answers with a sigh, moving past him to have the leader stop him in his path easily.

“so what did you get?”

“pardon?” shuichi turns himself around.

“intrigue me, you were the one who said you wanted to understand me, right?” he smiles. “so what kind of character did you collect from tonight.”

his gaze hardened faintly as he looked at the other, making a glance down by the staircase then back, starting with some hesitation.

“well…for one, given how easily you’re prone to boredom, it’s only plausible given your personality that mischief and prodding for any reaction is your way of entertaining yourself.” he starts out, kokichi raising his brows with a still blank expression as the detective continued.

“yeahh..but that’s just decent face value information, isn’t it?” he moves closer towards the other, moving his head around slowly. “you got an old looking house, i could assume at face value you like old things and you have a practiced sophisticated way of behaving.”

“true.”

“how about you dig a little deeper if you’re such a genius.”

“what?”

“like I said.”

he wanted to push his finger a little further and indeed attempt to push more into the understanding.

“you’re a liar,” he starts. “i can’t see why though..”

“because it’s fun, duh! do you know how bleak life is if you don’t spice things up with deceit and falsehood?” he happily stated, following with a low chuckle. “whoops..what can I expect from a detective anyway..”

“no..no there’s..something else.”

“oh?”

“there’s something you don’t want others to find out..it’s one of the more common ways to protect yourself from others, appear stoic or unknowing by becoming a lie.”

“uh huh..try again, i don’t have anything to hide.”

“if that was the case, im not sure you would

feel the need to say it the way you did.”

“even so, like I said, you’ll die before you figure me out.”

“then why are you acting this way?”

“hmm?”

he keeps himself leaned back against the staircase railing, continuing on. “entertaining yourself at my expense for seemingly no reason then leaving a trail out for me to be drawn in,” he hesitated at the last word, mouth agape before he spoke again. “like..that night.”

“awh, so that’s your own truth..” he lowers his voice again in a sultry manner, shuichi furrowing his brows.

“it was that easy to get you listening and interested, huh?”

“don’t take it any other way.” he seemed to all too quickly interjected, another glance around despite there being nobody else. “you— you state this in a way that I don’t— …no, I refuse to be a part of this.”

kokichi’s expression had slowly softened back to something unreadable, tilting his head back before speaking again. “mm, exactly like I said…you wouldn’t be able to find out whatever mystery you think i’m tied with.”

“you shouldn’t act this way around—“

“around who? someone I find just a little bit entertaining? and why not…because that totally takes the fun out of everything. doesn’t it?” he drew on, still keeping that distance between them yet still keeping that specific voice at bay, shuichi furthering the annoyance in his expression.

“c’mon, shuichi…you should stick by my side and entertain me whenever I grow tired.”

without another word and some moments of silence, shuichi quickly turned his back, making his way down the staircase in a somewhat hurried manner.

while kokichi stood there alone, he hummed to himself waiting for some moments to pass before going down himself.

“interesting.”

Chapter 3: 3.

Chapter Text

“so what’s the deal with the transfer kid?” a girls voice asked, chatter surrounding the outdoor area in an obvious sense for the setting considering how vastly students gathered for lunch.

the leader in attentively drinking from a box, reasonably answering from the yankee he declared a throne to sit upon.

“ohh nothing…just another goody two shoes i have to be friendly with, and this is supposed to be the alliance of the century, huh?” he purred with boredom traced in his voice.

“shit, he’s a saihara?” another voice persisted curiously.

“didn’t see that one coming—“

“hey I said pay up, I bet that guy was a saihara,” one of the students gestures to his own head. “it’s that specific shade of blue.”

“glad to know you pay such close attention to other males that much, are you on that side of the fence?”

“you know what i mean, and i’m not like that—“

kokichi only squinted his eye, mnot wishing to continue, returning to down his drink again as further rambling continued on around him, just to be questioned again. he could only mumbled with annoyance under his breath.

“he seems kinda laid back i guess.”

“whatever,” he spreads his legs across the seat. “I couldn’t care less about his time here..but I suppose he’s a rather good roommate. he could even make a hood minion for me with proper time.”

“oh so you’re on that side of the fence.”

“oh please! it’s not a matter of attraction it’s just a matter of is he boring or not.” he easily stated with a giggle.

“i’m sure his friend finds him entertaining.” one of the girls at the table made a point, gesturing somewhere rather far. glancing a far to follow wherever he was expected to look, he found the source of watchful eyes.

kenji making hand gestures as he walked with the detective, seemingly talking about a subject of some sorts, passing by everyone else. there was something off just slightly about him though. something annoying about his chopped wavy hair and grin.

kokichi evidently felt his palm close in tightly, the box in hand squeezing as he slowly set it down. his own jaw could tighten as he indubitably felt a strange sense of heat washing over him momentarily.

“what a joke..”

“least he’s off your hands— you trying to skip next period?”

“go on without me, I gotta make a stop at the student councils office.”

“don’t try and lie and say you have a meeting.”

“just have to grab a few things.”

“grab napkins while you’re at it.” one of the girls remarked, kokichi glancing down at his own hand from the crumpled box and the liquid that made its rightful spill, disgust shocking him in short time from his honeyed palm. he exasperated in his tone. “i’ll just stop by one of the vending machines.”

a declared lie just one after another like he lived, prying it for his life as his vice. just a momentary falsehood to keep himself together and take a stride. atleast the promise of stopping in the meeting room wasn’t true, though the leader felt an urge for thirst to cure his boredom.

he tapped a foot with some thought against the tiled floor where the vending machines lay just by the doors leading back into the cafeteria. much needed shade shielding him to possibly paw for a decision across the many options.

he ended up putting in a few dollars and pressed the most appealing button, waiting for the carbonated bottle to push out from inside, just to get caught halfway between falling. the leader raising his eyes.

“absolutely fucking not—“ he growled, it was already enough of a hazard dealing with the constant use of the detectives name in others mouth that without a ‘certain’ reason made him unreasonably irritated. needing to deal with some lost money with no return didn’t need to add after his hothead from washing his hands of a sticky mess.

he brought his foot up to the machine in a swoop kick, bringing a hand up to slap flat to the glass shortly following.

he’d attempt to keep trying at his drink frustratingly before he pondered to give up, close passing by students in a specific conversation catching his ear.

“—I wouldn’t have thought about that.”

“they’re commonly around and stuff, chill out.”

“dude it’s fucking abnormal, sue me.”

“all i asked was if he was legit or not, can’t get a straight answer nowadays.”

“yeah alright, grandpa.”

what he thought off as useless gossip or such from where they stopped by afar, kokichi returned his attention, crouching to push his hand through the exit slot of the machine, still half listening.

“shit, his parents got good work going on but he sure as hell isn’t legit. ‘oh look at me, i can tell people what to do just because my daddy has gang connections.’ it’s childish.”

“can you stop complaining about him? you’re just feeding into what he wants.”

“hell, at least he’s got a cop as a roommate so maybe he’ll straighten out a bit.”

“doubt it, that’s ouma for you.”

“uh— i mean his roommate yeah— he has that other guy he’s always around though i guess, kenji or whatever the hell.”

“alright, you don’t gotta say it.”

“a hundred percent— one hundred percent a sissy.”

“ah come on man, relax, that’s crazy— he’s probably just fuckin’ quiet or whatever.”

known the full of it, kokichi moves back to his feet, and with a fell, harsh swoop of a kick, slams his foot against the bottom of the machine. eliciting a loud bang to alarm the other students, his drink finally falling to the exit slot.

“about time! woo, these machines are such a hassle..” he declared, grabbing at his drink to open with a pop, glaring over at the two other students who made a point to leave into the school.

barely three weeks into the school for the detective and already lies spread so easily for entertaining chatter. he could himself bring forth damming exercises to add to the grapevine of gossip through the school, participating himself. though how quickly this seemed to transpire was against what he was used to, word of tongue involving the other holding distaste for the leader, the full picture of his affairs making him annoyed.

though who was he to do other than ignore pathetic lines from outsiders with no information other than deceit, call hypocrisy for a case.

“anymore plans after classes again?” kenji inquired.

“i was hoping to stay in and finish my assignments.”

“awh, come on mister detective, don’t be lame.” he crooned from the other side of library shelf, shuichi catching his joking face from the gap, looking back at a book in his hand he was skimming though.

“that’s a new one.”

“you really care about your grades, huh?”

“I can enjoy my education if i want to.”

“alright, fair.” the other responded in half agreement, arms crossed on the gap in the shelf. “how many books you trying to check out?”

“just one.”

“we’ve been here a while, you gotta a niche topic you want?”

“something of the sorts..” he nods, closing the book in hand to return to its place, tracing his finger across the nearby spines in search.

“I think you spend more time here than anyone else i’ve known.”

“you haven’t really known me that long.”

“you’re a really studious guy.”

“I suppose..” he hums carefully, curiously pulling out another book to skim through the pages. “it’s soothing in a way.”

“I could never do that, if I stare at a book too long I’d be falling asleep. you ever play any video games?”

“I don’t, no.”

“are you stuck in the fifties or something? not even pac-man?”

“I know of it, i just don’t really take interest in that I guess.” he awkwardly chuckled, pausing as he looked back to the inner note of the book, closing it shut.

“you gotta learn to live, bet you’re not exposed to smoking or a drink either.” he prods jokingly, moving himself around the book shelf to follow the detective who began to look walk himself to the front desk.

“i’d rather not talk about those subjects.”

“huh..” kenji hummed gently, hand reaching up to thread his fingers through the back of his hair, brows furrowed. “seems like you got a strict house.”

“something like that.” he answered briefly, making his walk out after the checkout, book by his side.

“seriously, there’s like a lot of things i gotta get to understand you.”

“hmm?”

“i dunno you just…kinda pull me in a little man, i wanna know more.”

“ah..i’m sure you’ll put forward the dedication.” shuichi answered back unsure, keeping his gaze away. “there’s not really much to ‘understand’ though I have to say.”

“sure there is, you got that mysterious vibe.”

“right.”

“what’s with that book specifically?”

upon the question feigned, shuichi turned to look at the cover, contemplating across the title for a few moments before returning it flat at his side. “something to help with studying.

“you’ve been staring that damn book down like your life depends on it,” kokichi sighed obnoxiously louder than needed, slumped against the bay window looking over at the other boy, sat in his desk carefully reading the pages. “it’s getting creepy, you look like one of those himedanshi’s from the book club.”

“it’s nothing like that.” shuichi answered with a sigh, ignoring the others comment.

“oh so you’re a fudanshi, that’s quite a twist from the ultimate detective.”

“you must be extremely bored.”

“still on your endeavour to understand me is only going to leave you empty handed.” kokichi clicked his tongue disapprovingly. “you disappoint me, saihara.”

“right then.”

he shuffled in his seat, smugly smiling to himself as he leaned his head against the wall, taking a glance outside the window only for his voice to lower as he spoke sultry. “try, try and try harder, detective..”

the silence that fell after seemed soothing from a far view, though for the detective finishing another skim of a page, he place his hand under his chin thoughtfully. hesitating, he peered his head over.

like that night before, only difference in the moment for the calming light that draped over kokichi in full, thoughtlessly staring out and his leg that wasn’t propped on the bay swinging gently off the edge. he felt a need for speaking, something in the silence leading his curiosity on

“kokichi?” he started gently, closing the book and putting it aside, a bored hum from the leader in return.

“what exactly is your own business?”

“gonna need you to elaborate there.”

he turned in his chair, hands in lap as he continued thinking, only now had kokichi turned his attention to him with head limply tilted from the side with no care. something about his want being unexplainably tenfold, knowing that need to ignore it.

“you don’t seem to have any place of interest with what your parents do…actually, what is it specifically your parents do?”

“oh? i thought you were the one figuring me out.” he hummed with a smile. “it would defeat the mystery if i gave you all the answers.”

“either way, my question still stands.”

“welll…i guess the idea is just boring to me.” he answered simply, leaning his head back up again. “meetings after meetings basically everyday with zero adventure. what kind of a lifestyle is that? a terrible one, that’s what it is. I can’t stand boredom, i need thrill.”

“I see.”

“take notes, mister detective, i’ve got my own thing going on. ever heard of the secret elite top secret 10,000 member organisation that’s DICE?” he offered with a peppy tone, defeating it done with a harsh tone. “ofocurse you haven’t! that’s why it’s super secret.”

“so you run a single gang rather than multiple connections like your parents?”

“yup, guess you can say it’s pretty devious the amount of crimes we get into. it’s the coolest though.”

“and how much of that is true?” shuichi questioned, leaned back in his chair slightly in thought. “atleast about there being 10,000 members..that sounds like a lie.”

“it’s definitely not!” he waves a hand. “hey, did you know I have contact with an organisation in Siberia? very cold there, I wouldn’t cross me if you don’t want trouble~”

shuichi took his remake into thought, a cheerful expression and sparkles in the others eyes that donned the very opposite of what he was expressing as a threat. confusing at the very least, though a quick glance to the book on his desk and back, he thought on.

“well, if that’s what you declare the truth.”

“so what’s your deal?” kokichi asked quickly, head down and ready to pick at his calloused and cut cuticles. “ya know, aside from your dirty cop excuse of parents.”

“i was sure that I was the one figuring you out.”

“oh?” he lifted his gaze again.

“well..you still don’t trust me and have a sense of weary, and as far as i’m concerned the only reason you act the way you do is to find entertainment momentarily in things rather than stay long for the run.” he narrows his eyes carefully at the leader, one of his own feet rising up to cross behind his ankle.

“you’re speaking gibberish, saihara.”

“like you said yourself..it’s possible i’ll die before I know anything about you, so by me attempting to understand you, what benefit do you get from trying to learn anything about me in return? if there’s the knowing you’ll grow bored eventually.”

kokichi’s eyes seemed to lower from the suggestion of the other, shuichi’s being feeling the moment of something racking behind his rib cage taking account for the grin that slowly formed across the others lips.

smother, smother, forget.

his jaw tighten, eyebrows furrowing to damn him further as he glanced away. his throat that grew dry suddenly making him worry further of kokichi’s effect, worry terribly.

“awh, why so shaken up now..”

the terribly smooth, low tone forcing his chest to tighten around his ribs. smother further the thoughts, though he slowly looked back.

“whats the worry? afraid of being lead on..someone showing interest just to..let go?”

“that’s..”

“you’re not as good as hiding yourself from others, so I’m sure I could learn a thing or two about you.” he inquired, leading on with a pause before picking up again. “atleast then i’d be the only one who could talk about you truthfully.”

“what is that supposed to indicate?”

“ah, nothing serious.” though, another lie in simplicity. “I just love thinking of how adorable your endeavour is..and I suppose your attention is quite not boring too.”

a simple breath escaped his nostrils gently, observing the other in a form of awe. not entirely awe as far as he could grasp, his body shuffling to sit off the edge of the bay, though shuichi knew to be careful, even so if he didn’t wish to be, he could only anticipate how the other could smugly back off.

that feeling of want and confusion swirling back around so strongly. never stating it out explicitly, yet how he had worded it, trailing sweetly. a sure ‘facade’ of the leader showing his own display of adoration. surely though he knew to ignore that silly thought. ‘i’ll figure you out to speak the truth, speak about you to others in admiration.’ a rough silly translation he wasn’t sure why he would have come up with a thought as such in the first place. it meant something else, obviously. he was foolish.

he cleared his throat a last time.

“i should get ready for bed.” he dismiss quietly, standing from his chair.

“sheesh, leaving so soon? bummer.”

“you seem to have a strange fascination with wanting me to change here.”

“it’s not a fascination dumbass it’s just weird, we’re both guys.”

the only right answer, he thought for himself, and those ideas that strangely came about. what a delusion of an idea.

he damned himself, undeniably a fool. a delusion of a feeling he couldn’t describe.

“i’ll take my leave.”

“wait—“

“hm?”

“ah nothing, don’t bother listening to silly ol’ me.”

without any further notion, the detective took his leave, a sigh escaped him once the door shut again. deja vu temporarily washing over him from his position before going down the hall.

the leader himself, groaned to himself low. whatever the reasons, the detective was truly strange. he felt a bit disgusted, wanting to figure anything out though evidently so, had no intent of stopping what he was doing.

something about him.

“if I can have your attention.”

the chatter around the lecture hall still about, the girl that stood before the mass of students with an annoyed expression across her face before bringing her hand to tap against the microphone for noise, the chatter suddenly dying down.

“thank you— as I wanted to say,” she began. kenji from his chair leaning over idly to whisper to the detective.

“man, these idiots are obnoxious at listening..”

“pay attention.”

she brought her voice up in a presenting manner. “so as i’m sure you heard, our yearly scholar event is around the corner and I know so many of you have been anticipating it,”

shuichi had kept a good ear ahead, idly with attention as the speech had gone on. another one of these announcements from the council he was sure to bring a sense of joy around.

contrasting to the manner the vice president spoke in and how the other members stood proud, mr president himself didn’t have much care as he was stood with an ankle over the other carelessly. as usual, with an interest in picking at his cuticles.

“significantly enough, our budget is much larger this year which gives us the pleasure of offering more activities for everyone around school to enjoy,” the students around the lecture hall already began to whisper or talk among each other in details, guessing or asking. “it’s for the full day, as you all know, and furthermore about the details, i’ll turn it over to our class president.”

everyone the hall respectfully bringing their hands to clap, the vice president stepping aside with a bow for kokichi to move behind the levelled podium, leaned forward and hands clasped atop.

“testing, testing, is this thing on?” a few chuckles scattered about as he sighed. “man we need a new mic— alright, here’s the deal, all of the activities you’ll find so much interest in is posted outside your classes and a map of where they’re all located just in case any of you nerds are new to this operation—“ he cuts himself off, on perfect timing, flashed a grin up near the higher rows of seating, shuichi feeling his jaw tighten as the leader simply returned to the subject. “ anyways, we got all kinds of stuff— food stands, art displays, a track race all that.”

how confidently he spoke in the right pace was more than enough for the detective to keep his attention ahead. calmly relaxed in his posture and his witty comments was institutions to say the least, a bit admirable.

“most of volunteer positions have been filled for the stands buuuttt if you’re super enthusiastic about showing your school spirit, come talk to one of us and we’ll see what we can do.” he finished with a smile, standing up more straight finally. “as for the topic of the bigger budget, any and all cash we have left over will just be put towards next years scholar event as decided by our class treasurer.”

claps all around came about as kokichi took a bow, turning his head in a lean momentarily to the vice president for small talk.

“what a dude,” kenji sighed.

“if you’re going to keep speaking bad of others, I don’t think i can tolerate hearing you.” shuichi said, glancing at the other, who raised his brows.

“you seriously can’t tell me you tolerate him, i mean shoot— you’re stuck sharing a room with him.”

“just— i don’t like hearing people talk ill of each other.”

a slow sigh leaving kenji’s lips as he nodded. “yeah..alright— well hey, speak your virtue.”

he simply acknowledged the other, still keenly with his eye on the leader from where he stood, taking his spot away to stand tall again as another member stepped to the podium to speak.

even the smallest details of the sharpness of his face seemed to be recognisable from where the detective sat, though still, that strange sensation of his ribs closing into his chest as he kept his eyes on the other. no description once more as far as he could understand his own body.

kenji seemed to catch on, furrowing his expression to fall into one that was barely readable, leaning back in his chair. “you sure have a weird fascination with him.”

“he’s just…very interesting.”

“must be a detective thing.” he seemed to mumble with a shrug, head cocked back to bare his throat to the ceiling. “you excited for the scholar event?”

shuichi briefly examined the bob of the others throat as he swallowed, bringing a hand to rest under his chin and glance aside.

“it sounds intriguing.”

“are you gonna go?”

“I guess it depends on if my uncle has any more case he wants me to get pulled out of school for,” he answers.

“ah yeah, i was wonderin’ why i didn’t see you in class that much recently, guessing that’s not gonna stop.” he hums in awe. “it’d be super nice to have you there man.”

“ah..there’s not anyone else who could keep you company?”

“nah, there is,” he replied without more care, shrugging. “you’re def one of my favourites though.”

he wasn’t sure quite how to react, a smile tugging at the corner of the others lips. shuichi feeling a sense of self doubt and of not knowing.

“i uh..i’m flattered, really.”

he’d find himself again in that agency, though the difference he discovered would be a rather slow day. being asked for a second option on interrogation in person or writing off more cases, though at the end, he was found sitting by his uncles desk without any assignments, not much to do and looking rather out of place in a environment of older investigators.

his bag still with him and the only questions he was filled with were to be answered further looking into that book he checked out, turning back to a specific page.

around the time his uncle returned back to his desk and took account of his nephew, he huffed under his breath, moving to the open window and shuffling in his suit pocket.

“this is probably the slowest we’ve been all week,” he chuckled, pulling a cigarette out of his carton to balance in his mouth, bringing up a lighter after. shuichi lifting his gaze to watch as he blew smoke out the window, looking back at his nephew. “then again, it is a thursday, so I suppose the likelihood of people coming in with reports isn’t high.”

“is it alright if I ask you about something?”

“sure, hit me.” he answered, shuichi taking another look at his page then back.

“you dealt with a lot of the first hand gang cases when you started out, right?” he treaded. his uncle sighing as he held his cigarette down.

“oh certainly— those were the days, tearing down large organisations and back to back interrogations that lasted forever. you wouldn’t believe the amount of evidence confiscated at the time unless I showed you.”

“I see..”

“why the sudden interest?” he inquired, bringing the cigarette back up and tilting his head back near the window.

“I was just wondering about some insight i guess.” his uncle catching a glimpse of the book title as he was showed temporarily.

“the organised crime documents, huh? what’s got you so riled up and curious about this?”

shuichi took a moment to think, pursing his lips before speaking again. “ever since this new alliance deal with the ouma’s, there’s just something that bugs me about—“

“their brat of a son?”

he perks his head up. “well…yeah.” returns it to his page. a page that donned images of different faces, though the man and woman of blackish purple locks stood out, bold text of information spread about. “I just…feel the need to figure him out…understand who he is. there’s just something about him, i suppose..”

“well going through that book ain’t gonna give you any information about him, that was way before they had a kid.” he dismisses, asking the cigarette to flick out the window after, allowing himself to move closer and further evaluate the book.

“yeah, they had a mean streak in their time— they’re still damn good at what they do, but it’s hard to trace any real activity now. guess they’re doing more charity stuff, giving to the community.”

“that’s nice.”

“just because you do the wrong thing for the right reason doesn’t automatically cleanse your sins, this isn’t some storybook.”

“I suppose.”

“well..it’s every detectives job to get to the bottom of every mystery,” he proclaims, straightening his back and sighing. “and whatever you wanna understand about this kid, i’m sure you’ll get to the bottom of it, whatever your reasoning.”

“right, thank you.”

“you’re smart, just take your time.”

“I appreciate it,” he sighs, a smile pulling at his lips slightly, his uncle bringing up a hand to pat at his shoulder.

“leave whenever you want, but i’ve gotta get back to some interrogation.”

“alright, good luck.” he nods, his uncle adjusting his jacket and walking off, shuichi taking a last look at the book. back to those picture of the man and woman. a stern yet proud look across their faces. not surely for what they do, but for the recognition. pride in some way. the further he look, the more he wondered, wondered how further he could figure things out.

he thought a bit more on what his uncle had said as well, no bad things for a right purpose to do over. no amount of right for your sins to be cleansed, there was another saying he heard like that, heard his mother and father speak much about the sins of humans.

though, in time being detectives, there’s many sinful things about human beings you learn to hate. either the latter, or you were hateful from the beginning. why else would he need to avoid stepping on scattered shards for some of his behaviour.

“0/10 public speaking performance, you suck ass!”

“oh? would you rather me flaunt my sexual privacy like you?” the leader scoffed leaned back on the common area couch, drink pressed to his lips.

the wild blonde huffed, adjusting her tank top strap before leaning herself across the kitchen island nearby. “oh please, like you’re not a fuckin’ harlot around any guy you find hot.”

“and the women too,” he interrupts, setting his drink aside. “the ladies kill for all of this…a shame it’s not of my interest.”

“share some for the rest of us.”

“oh don’t get the first part twisted,” he puts his hand up, turning around to look behind the couch at miu. “it’s not like i’m being serious, it’s just a form of entertainment.” she rolls her eyes as he sits back, looking at the tv.

“you’re fuckin’ sickening,” kaito scoffed from where he looked around in the fridge. “participating in such a degrading activity.”

“says the one on the rugby team.”

“nonstop gym workouts too.” miu added.

“whatever, atleast I don’t convince people I like them just to walk away.”

“oh please, you make it sound like it’s frequent.” he dismisses, leaning further on the couch, legs spread. “you hate my guts so much, why keep talking?”

kaito bit his tongue, setting a container of milk on the counter to pour a glass as he spoke begrudgingly. “well I still want the full details of the scholar event from the source of planning.”

“if you try recommending star gazing in the middle of the day like an idiot, i’ll have to slit my throat from second hand embarrassment.” he proclaims solemnly, tongue stuck out lazily momentarily.

“maybe there’s a reason you’re alone, kokichi.”

“whatevs..” he groans, looking around the common area, assessing the few amount of students around, looking back at the tv.

“man it’s lame down here.”

“then go back to your fuckin’ room.”

“i can’t stand the silence of someone else reading, i don’t feel like putting up with it.”

miu raised her brows and clicked her tongue. “i’d be careful talking, there’s some rumours going around.”

“i’m sure i’ve heard it already.” he tilted his head back.

“about your roommate being a fag?”

he thinks for a minute, tongue swiping across the inside of his jaw before speaking again. “something about him being a cop and straightening out how i change too, apparently.”

“who are we talking about?” another student asked from afar.

“shuichi saihara.”

“wait— you mean the guy we met at the park?” kaito almost a coughs from surprise.

kokichi turns his head behind the couch again. “what park?”

kaito sets down his glass of milk. “me and miu talked for a while at the park some time ago with him, ken was there too.”

“kenji— my fuckin’ neighbour with the scruffy hair.” miu corrects, waving her hand at the other mockingly.

“oh shit, how the hell did prez get a roommate?” the other student laughed before walking off.

kokichi furrowed his eyes. “after classes late by the water fountain?”

“uh yeah that park, why.” kaito asks skeptically, bringing the glass to his lips again while he took a step back to look around the cabinets.

“hmm..no reason, i just happened to be out doing some business that day as well.” he recalled immediately. “he sure hangs out around that nobody a lot— what does he even do?”

“his grandparents own the docks and boating down by the shorefront.”

a scoff almost jerked from the leaders throat. “and why would a detective have any interested in some fisher boy? how pitiful.”

“they seem compliant in each other, and kenji’s a..well he’s an interesting character! maybe it’s just his type in friendships!” kaito encouraged.

“kenji kotoro, huh?”

“careful, you sound jealous.”

“i wouldn’t be caught dead having attachments to a dirty cop.”

“whatever you say.” miu dismisses, nudging into kaito. at once, he abruptly stood to his feet, stretching his arms. “well! this conversation was soooo entertaining, but i need some well deserved rest.”

“the fuck do you need beauty sleep for? preparing to be an asshole the next day?”

“i’m bored. see ya losers.” he waved his hand dismissively, walking off and out of the room. the facade of a dismissive smile dropping as his back faced them.

the sensation of hot water enveloping him entirely sent shivers, a muffled groan escaping his lips at best as he lowered his head, pressed against the tiled wall informer of him, watching the water swirl and move down the drain filter for whatever his bangs didn’t cover.

even in the echoing silence of the shower room, his mind rattled, hot headed to his own thoughts he doomed strangely irritating. his shoulders hiking up to tighten subtly as he sighed, head cocked back. many things he couldn’t understand, barely getting through life understanding himself.

two things he despised aside from liars despite the hypocrisy was not understanding someone else before he had a clear intention of their character. call it a bad habit or selfish, his own line of facades at the ready on guard just for his own need to find out someone.

the more he thought it over, the more he seemed to get irritated. think over many possibilities but still not understanding. though why he wanted to give a care in the first place is what really got to him, investing in some mediocre hot shot who claimed to search for understanding.

yet such a pretty face for a level of intellect he found quite sufficient to his desire of interest; just to waste his breath around a nobody. at the very most, around people not worthy. he needed to keep him at bay and yet keep him knowing where his position was.

how strange.

he pushed down the handle to turn off the shower, grabbing his towel with a sigh as his thoughts kept running.

Chapter 4: 4.

Chapter Text

he had found himself at a dinner setting once again like time before, the difference he sought out and found was more company. surely, with the ouma’s expansive house there was more than enough room for hospitality.

though the detective truly wasn’t in favour of what could be considered close to a dinner party, a few more of those in organised crime he knew of. he let the cold water slip between his fingers and into the porcelain bowl below as he took a final breath for mercy before he found his own reflection staring back with exhaustion. ‘a book and coffee in bed, please.’ he thought as he fixed his tie.

it would be better to get the night through. deal with the leaders more than possible antics and stick around for any smiles and straight postures he would need to show for conversation connection. damping his face with a towel before discarding it, taking an exit.

“things slowing down with the agency i take it.”

“oh it happens to be like that at times but rates spike back up, i got my moneys worth so i know i can push and let the back door open for a while.”

“things are complicated, of course— and anyhow, we’d have to be keen of the public eye for a…not as favourable catch of fame.”

“oh, well i’m sure the ouma’s would have your head if they knew your true affiliations while you have an agreement like us.”

“either way, we’d have gone far away before we get a mad finger.”

truthfully, he felt a feeling similar to that of suspense across his body and inside, an uncomfortable sensation as he really knew where he stood, kept a drink of water in his had stood by his mother with an observant eye of the adults around. engaging in conversation in suitable topics or indulging in food.

to say the least, he disliked being brought into things, but who was he with any right to complain.

he made notes of any details he could the more he got to be familiar with the house, the ouma’s. there was always a proud on their faces. always a grin to share for an achievement that had been reached, one to shine under ballroom light as one would raise a toast to.

the only times he understood a proud look on the faces of those in his family only happened under rare conditions, and in any case, ones where he was not involved to no surprise noted by himself.

why he was even brought there in the first place, he wasn’t sure. he had found himself wandering his eyes around as he gradually moved around rooms, catching ahold of the leader by the stairway fork afar in the living area and conversing with a boy and girl their age, that casual grin as he talked about whatever. it felt creepy from where he was standing and watching, so naturally he walked back off before the leader could catch him looking.

had he not been where he was he could have very much spent time elsewhere, maybe caught up in another hang out with kenji or whoever else he wanted to introduce or show to him. either way, it was better than standing awkwardly around hearing adults talk about matters he hated.

“what did you mother discuss with you?”

he turned over his shoulder to find his father stood waiting for him in the hallway, a stent yet unreadable expression plastered.

“I, ah..”

“use this time to talk with others.”

“with all due respect, i’m not sure what conversation with the other adults i’d be welcomed into.”

“this is how connection works, you’ll need the skills when you’re older anyhow.” he huffs, gesturing with his hand before he walked away, shuichi taking the signal and following his father.

“at the very least, say hi to the other children here. they’re all you’re age.” he shuffled in his breast pocket for a carton shuichi recognised, stopping by the open patio in the back, shuichi keeping some distance. “and what about kokichi?”

“what about him?”

“word from your school is that he’s your roommate.” he replied simply, lighting the white stick between his lips before quickly blowing the smoke away. “it would’ve seemed by now you should’ve atleast been friendly enough with him to spend more time together.”

shuichi hesitated, opening his mouth before sliding it as the other man extended the carton in his hand to the other.

“he’s a difficult person to get along with..” shuichi explains. “ah..?”

“take one.”

“huh?”

“it would’ve happened sooner or later,” his father says, watching his son take his own stick before he put the carton away back in his breast pocket, turning on the lighter. “runs as a family de-stressor, my brother started when he was nineteen.”

he really wasn’t quite sure how to feel about himself or the situation either, taking a nervous glance around before he balanced it in his fingers, taking the stick under the light and coughing immediately, hand to his chest.

“this is awful..”

“you’ll grow used to it, but only do it on weekends, understand?”

“ahm…yes, sir..” he weakly replies, his eyes uncomfortably starting to water from the sting of the smoke, a quick glance down before carefully bringing it back up.

“now, explain yourself further.”

downing some mercy as he worriedly took another careful inhale before letting the smoke fall from his lips, he looked back at his father. “he’s..just an interesting character, I mean.”

“you’re going to be a formal detective eventually, so figure him out.” he briefly interrupted, sighing with teeth. “though, you be weary of his behaviour.”

“what do you mean?” he almost mumbled curiously.

“that boy certainly acts on the opposite side of the fence.”

shuichi furrowed his brows for further elaboration, making a quick glance at his cigarette. his father opening his mouth to further explain before shaking his head, taking another blow of smoke. “just keep your connections in mind, but don’t get too close to someone like him.”

he pondered further, or at least wanted to on what he had meant by that statement given how much his thoughts would cease to let him rest.

“I should inquire the next delivery exchange,” the man starts, starting away before quickly staring his gaze at the other. “finish that entire thing, I paid well for these.”

“yes sir..” he weakly replied, turning back to look out the patio, feeling the steps of his father leave the vicinity.

reluctantly, he sighed as he brought the stick back up, though hesitating before finally dropping it on the grass, smudging out the flame under his shoe.

“what a rebel.”

the detective practically whipped his head around to find kokichi arms crossed and leaned against the wall from inside, a telling smirk.

“it’s nothing,” he clears his throat as well as he could, hand momentarily rubbing against his chest before taking a step back inside.

“what a shame you didn’t listen, it would be a shame if i informed him.”

he sucked in his breath full of caution, cheeks draining of colour before the leader let out a laugh. “i’m lying, I don’t get any benefit from snitching.”

“well, if that’s all you were here for..”

“nah, it’s get really boring talking for connection purposes after a while, tooootally boring.” he cut himself off with a chuckle, cocking his eyebrow in a way that before shuichi could say anything, involuntarily walking closer to the other. “no, I want to talk to you.”

“ah, about something in particular?”

“not necessarily, but you’re certainly way less boring than anyone else here.” kokichi cooed with tilt of the head, starting his walk. once again, shuichi feeling the need to follow him.

“while I have you, I had some questions.”

“what is this, an interrogation?”

“ah— no, please don’t take it that way—“

“awh, relax, saihara, it’s very unprofessional when you get riled up easily.”

“enough, hold on just a minute—“ he attempted to catch his voice again, only for the leader to cut him off again as they noted talking heads surrounding.

“it’s like I said, I want to know you. and— I have a few things i’m curious about.”

“hmm, guess we better find a more private room then, right?”

“private?”

“what, do you take me as the type to corner you and slit your stomach or something?”

“I’m cautious for a reason..”

“good.” he grins.

not so subtly shutting the door behind, shuichi took an observing glance around the spare room, only looking back carefully behind his shoulder and turning as he watched the leader leaned back against the door, unreadable yet tellingly bold. he grew anxious.

“your parents seemed to have quite the reputation all those years ago..” he starts carefully, keeping his promise of asking those questions. “ahm..even after you were born, there’s not exactly any mention in anything i’ve seen unless it was something else in a news article.”

“snooping through the organised crime documents, huh?”

“how did..”

“i saw that book still on your desk when I came back to the room and you weren’t there temporarily.” a smile crept upon his lips. “good job shuichi, researching whatever you can about me..leaving my identity bare before you.”

he takes another careful breath, pursing his brows and continuing, a glance to the floor. “well..you certainly seem to try and separate yourself from them, as far as I can tell just as a sense of rebellion.”

“maybe the idea of family business just bores me terribly.”

“i’m sure it’s something else,” he looks back to the leader, who already was distracting his gaze at his nails again. “they didn’t exactly..do a lot of good things in their prime and starting out, you just wanted to separate yourself from your last name.”

the leader lifts his eyes.

“and for the sense of freedom..you wouldn’t want to be tied to a future someone else decided for you. making your name known else wise and doing your own stunts— making your own persona.” he hesitates, yet continuing on as he was sure he was hitting every point. “it’s more your style than what they expected at first.”

he waited some time, anticipating patiently as the leader cocked his head back momentarily before pushing himself away from the door to stand before him. he could only feel something growing in his stomach close to symptoms of illness, yet cautious to see what would happen next.

“well..I suppose you’re not that much of a mediocre detective.” he starts. “although I doubt you’re doing this for fun.”

“for f— do you think i’m trying to get something else to benefit from this?”

“well, it’s hard to know what people like you are up to.”

“kokichi, i’m doing this because I want to understand you.”

“yeah, yeah, I heard you before. but you really don’t know what you’re getting yourself into.”

“i’m sure I know well enough.”

“fair,” he grins, another slow foot forward. “after all, willing to put aside our differences just to figure me out? that’s a first step to dedication..”

shuichi clears his throat. “and..about you..?”

“i suppose I have my own little interest in you..” he mumbled almost, teetering closer to whisper huskily against the others ear. his hand that barely ghosted over his arm. “though, I am a liar..”

the detective felt a shiver from the close proximity, taking a step back just to have his heels hit the bed with a soft thud, glancing back at the leader.

“kokichi, hold on—“

before he could finish, the door had opened with a whip, and the woman that stood before in the entrance as they both turned left the detective pale in the face, draining of his blood and his heart in his stomach at the pure distraught look on his mothers face.

“whoops, what an awkward situation.” kokichi clicked his tongue, stepping away from the detective

“mother..it’s not—“

“get over here.” she snapped quickly, causing shuichi’s shoulders to hike up cautiously as she marched over, though he had been starting to anxiously make his way over, she harshly grabbed at his arm and pulled him towards the exit.

he made a quick glance over to kokichi and his unreadable expression before looking back, his heart erratically hitting his ribs. he truly couldn’t brace himself anymore as she led him downstairs, still grasping his arm.

“we have to make our leave, now.”

“mother please, you don’t—“

“i don’t want another word of you, you’ve done enough.”

that specific tone in her sultry voice was enough to set something off in him, securing that brewing feeling of disgust and worry deep in his stomach, had a knowing feeling what he was in for later on.

smack.

“I’m about to give you one chance to explain yourself thoroughly about what I saw.”

in the saihara house, ‘clear your conscience’ was just a friendly way to glaze over any form of discipline that occurred behind closed doors.

at the very least, that’s what it was called. though it felt more like a harsh punishment than anything.

kneels buckled and secured to the floor below him like a church prayer with his back straight, forbid he falter. he kept his gaze straight ahead and tried his best to labour his breathing. though with the deafening silence of the living area and the disapproval in his fathers eyes, his mother with a ruler, he should have been wiser.

he carefully opened his mouth to speak, so careful he wouldn’t stutter, wouldn’t let fear slip from his mouth. just for his mother to land the stick with a sharp lash across the back of his neck once more.

snack .

“answer when someone speaks to you.”

the impact left his head limping for a bit, before he stifled a sigh of pain, lifting his head again carefully.

“I..I was—“

“louder.”

“I was having a conversation with him.” he blurted out as she raised her voice, fearful of another hit, the heat radiating from the spot behind his neck leaving him feeling sick.

“ah, I’m sure I know why.” his father spoke up, for once, shuichi feeling grateful he felt a break to let out a muttered sigh.

“I merely told him to use his intuition to get more friendly with that one.”

his mother lowered the ruler, looking at her husband.

“I only encouraged he treat this alliance seriously as we always do,” he grimaced the view of his son hopelessly staring ahead at the wall before them, tears threatening to spill from his eyes. “I didn’t think he would treat it otherwise.”

“it isn’t like that at all—“

“and you disobeyed me and ashed out that cigarette. wasteful, that’s what you are.”

“is that so?” his mother tested.

shuichi braced for impact, holding his breath and he begged. “I’m sor—“

smack .

“back to what you were explaining.”

“only..it was— it was only just a regular conversation.”

“in the seclusion of a bedroom?” she lowered her voice, anger boiling over subtly.

“it was a private matter—“

“unless you’re attempting some elusive scheme to figure out if their family has something their hiding from us, even then, the bedroom was an option for privacy.”

smack .

“an option.” she reinterred. he only winced as his head glanced to the floor again, begging internally his tears wouldn’t spill over, damn himself further.

“you’re already enough of an embarrassment and a burden to our name, but this is how you repay us?” she demanded in a higher voice.

“I think he’s had enough for one night.”

“he needs to learn somehow.”

“i already told him before he doesn’t need to get close and make moves on him, im sure he has it in his head already.”

“god— it wasn’t like that!” shuichi suddenly raised his voice over his father, glaring at him in the moment through tears to somehow regain his composure, though in the moment of a rush he felt the final thrash of wood to his neck, curling into himself slightly and his knees digging in the carpet.

smack.

whatever sick feeling was brewing in his stomach surely was tenfold as he heard things ringing momentarily. he kept himself curled into himself like that, took account of the blood he felt start to slide from the wound down the back of his shirt.

“reconsider how close you go onto their son.” she sharply raised her voice. “the last thing i need is a union being ruined just because you fancy your matters in men.”

he wished to retaliate again, just wished. thought he knew better. he bit his tongue quite literally, shoulder still shaken and the sensation of the blood soon drying before he lifted his head.

smother his thoughts and smother them again.

“don’t let me catch you putting your hands on him, understood?”

finally in a weak reply, he answered.

“yes, ma’am..”

she finally let out a harsh sigh, his father looking down on him.

“clean up this mess and go to bed. and no complaining.”

“understood.” he replied again, he had kept staring down the carpet below him like his life depended on it, whether he was scared to lift or gaze or what, he waited until he heard their footsteps leave the living area and away, leaving him in the deafening silence and allowing him to lift his head slowly.

a poor choice really, for as he stood and finally took account of the damage, his head felt like it was spinning, everything warmer using to his head and stomach in a sickly feeling.

as he was cautiously cleaning the wound in the bathroom, he kept his voice stifled as much as possible. cleansing with water and such, before getting a good proper look from behind. opening the mirror cabinet to the right angle to see the red gash bold and bright. certainly it would bruise.

the only thing he was thankful for was the grace she had to hold his hair up. easy to hide atleast, though, she knew too never to be recklessly showing with her discipline. whatever happens in the house, stayed in the house.

he took his walk to his bedroom and tried to forget about the night.

“hmm..” kokichi mumbled.

“is it okay if I ask why you seem out of focus?” a slender man of unruly white hair inquired from where he stood next to him.

they had a wide view of the courtyard and the action of the scholar event being set up in place. enough shade as kokichi loosely held a clipboard in his hand.

“shuichi’s been acting off, that’s all.” he starts, taking a glance down at the clipboard to write something down. “pisses me off.”

“oh? he seems like a rather decent symbol for hope, it would be shameful if he did something bad.”

“yeah, yeah only you would say that.” he dismisses, making a walk towards one of the setups, the taller man following with his own clipboard.

“to be fair, you’re easily mad at a lot of things.”

“yeah, well this guys got a lot of nerve—“ he hums as he takes a look around the stand, signalling to the other students. “more ribbon up there like I asked.”

“right away, prez.”

“you were saying?” the other man hums, writing something down.

“and make sure the sign is even—!” he sighs. “my parents had some of our closest partnerships over and I consulted he had some..alone time since he’s so desperate to figure me out.”

“as expected of a detective,” the other man smiles. “ah, striving forward, never giving up in the face of deceit..”

“uh huh,” he dismissed, continuing his laps around. “next thing I know, his mom pulls him out of the room like a maniac and he’s on total radio silence.”

“ah..perhaps the line could be set up more evenly as to not mess up the patience of those who want to visit?” the other man keenly suggested to the next stand, one of the girls setting it up flashing a smile back and giggling with her friend. “of course— thanks, komaeda!”

kokichi twitched his eyebrow involuntarily as they walked off, stifling a scoff. “what a gentleman. you’re a real lady killer, huh?”

“ah, if only they understood I’m occupied.”

“he still talks to me but he’s been totally weird though ever since.”

“have you tried considering your options?”

“cornering him and confronting him?” kokichi scoffed at the idea. “i don’t chase people, people chase me.”

“well, if that’s how you wish to achieve your sense of hope.”

“enough with the hope crap.”

“alright but enough with the banter, have you really looked into his behaviour?”

kokichi hummed idly. “sure i have. every now and then he sort of adjusts the back of hair, not just in class either it’s like everywhere,” he continues on. “i’ll get to the bottom of this, nobody ignores me and lives to tell the tale.”

“oh, how frightening.”

“shut up— how about you go be useful and make rounds by the tracks?”

“understood, ‘prez’” the taller one chuckled idly before taking his leave, leaving kokichi with his thoughts.

he would certainly have to find shuichi later.

Chapter 5: 5.

Chapter Text

“you keep doing that...”

“huh?” shuichi whipped his head beside him, the same girl of brunette twin tails and a story behind crimson eyes from across the room to sweep at the other side.

“touching your neck.”

“ah..” he slowly removed his occupied hand from fixing the back of his hair again, tediously praying it off as he glanced back at the chalkboard.

“you’re strange..I don’t understand how that idiot is keeping you around.”

“kenji? ah— sure, he has..strong opinions but—“

“well, i guess similar minds think alike.”

he was taken a back slightly, finishing a final wipe down with the spray bottle and towel.

“if..you don’t mind me asking, what’s your talent? or, atleast what your parents—“

“it’s none of your business.”

cold, he thought to himself, turning back to the board.

“given who you are I doubt you’d want to explain your business all the time for small talk too.”

“i don’t go into the details too much, just the face cover of it, per say..”

“whatever.”

to think he’d get put on cleaning duty with maki of all people was something he least expected, though to see her talk first gave him a sense of curiosity of what sort of person she was. maybe with some more eventual discussion, he could converse with her more. yet something about her made him wonder if he should keep his distance.

whatever thought he had next was cut off by the loud incoming pair of feet from down the hall, running quickly. he whipped his head to the door to see a student held to the doorframe, bent over to catch his breath from wherever he came from. upon lifting his head, he saw that it was kaito.

“what do you want..” maki sighed, shuichi averting his head over in curiosity.

“maki-roll! there you are, geez, I was lookin’ all over for you!” he laughed between breaths, standing straight again. “come on, you’re late for training.”

“training?” shuichi inquired.

“oh hey! didn’t even see ya there, shuichi.”

maki kept sweeping her area. “every period after lunch this idiot drags me to the court to exercise.”

“and you’re late which is unacceptable! come on now, one hundred push ups and one hundred sit ups!”

“Im occupied.” she gestured clearly to her broom and pan, shuichi awkwardly motioning around where he stood as kaito took a scan around.

“yeah well..cleaning can wait! training can’t!”

“training for what exactly—?”

“training to be better, duh!” the other man boomed suddenly in the silence of the room, the silence of the rest of the classes in the wing surely heard him. shuichi could begin to understand maki’s opinion on him.

“boost morale! be the better you! why, I wouldn’t be the ultimate astronaut and luminary of the stars had I not picked up training!”

“there’s other students testing up here.” maki snaps, annoyed as ever and her eyes glaring down the other, kaito hiking up his shoulders and chuckling after.

“ah, uh— don’t mind maki-roll, she comes off as scary but she’s not all that.”

shuichi didn’t answer, only continued to awkwardly stand by the board, looking around occasionally.

“why can’t you go bother someone else..?”

“because you, maki-roll, are my partner in crime and we’re destined for greatness!”

“i’m..sorry are you both friends or—?”

“classmates.” she cuts off.

kaito in contrast beaming again. “we’ve been friends for forever! few years, even. hey, you know what, you should join!”

“huh—?”

“yeah, come alongside us as we cruise the stars! break boundaries, go beyond the distance of what aspects for training most need!”

was this guy under the influence?

“i uh— i’ll pass, thank you though.”

“come on, i insist!”

“leave him alone.” maki cuts in again. “and i’ll do it some other time, just not now.”

with a groan, he brings a hand up to the back of his head. “alright…i’ll hold that to ya though— oh and hey, genius.”

shuichi looks over again.

“me and some of the other guys are having a movie night in the common area, six after classes, got it?”

“I uhm—“

“great, see ya there!” and without another word, the hopeful astronaut leaves the room, shuichi thinking a bit further before sighing. looks like he has an invitation?

“just ignore him, he goes around talking to everybody without an issue.”

“I see..about the astronaut title..has he ever been to space?”

“definitely not, he just flaunts everything he knows about outer space because it’s an obsession,” she begins, hesitating before finishing her rounds with the broom. “his grandparents used to work for the station and he wanted to ‘carry’ the legacy or something. he’s not really the first thought for a union but he’s got spirit.”

“i see..so his family doesn’t have many ties?”

“pretty much..though everyone in this school is connected somehow.”

“right..”

“well, my duty here is done. see ya around I guess.”

“yeah, see ya..”

“one way ticket, huh?” kenji clicked his tongue.

“its just a movie night, i wouldn’t treat it as a big deal.”

“well sure, but atleast you’ll get better with the social aspect— count it as another hangout with us together. Kaito’s just got that spirit that he does and whatever.”

shuichi takes another glance down at his lunch tray, a bite of his sandwich before restoring back to talking soon after.

“It seems like a nice gesture..i’m not sure if i’d been in for it though.”

“huh? come on, detective, have some fun.”

“you and I have very different ideas of fun.”

“touché. but i mean, come on, you’re gonna have to keep getting to know people better and what not,” he crosses his arms on the table. “what, with the scholar event coming up— you’d meet some cool people.”

though so far the most shuichi had picked up from the school was as much as he knew, a mass of spoiled brats hiding between two faces with the very rare few of decency.

he let out a sigh, looking across at the other boys washed out violet eyes. “you seem persistent on wanting me to branch out.”

“you’re a cool guy, i just think if you put yourself more out there people would really appreciate you.”

“I understand what you’re saying to me, i just— i have my own way of getting around.”

“what, hiding in books and behind doors?” he chuckled gently. “and what about that hat you wore when you first got here?”

shuichi furrowed his brows, averting his gaze back down to his tray.

“i’m glad you ditched that after we started talking, makes me feel really special to see you up close and what not—“

“kenji, enough..please.”

the other boy raised a brow in suspicion, slowly relaxing his expression after. “someone’s not on his normal mood.”

“i’m sorry, this— you’re talking in a way i can’t understand and i just..feel like i can’t think.”

“yeah, i get that,” he huffed out. “you could not think at all and relax at the movie.”

shuichi raised his gaze again with a knitted expression.

“c’mon, pretty please?”

“i’ll stop by.”

“perfect answer.” the other grinned.

he seemed a bit confusing, thought nonetheless, and finished his lunch.

“hey, shit eater!” a loud voice called out, shuichi had turned from where he looked over the hallway balcony, miu making her way towards him.

“ah, miu..”

“heard kaito gave you a little invite, ya gonna pussy out?”

“i take it you’re going?”

“fuck that, i’ve got better shit to do— you know how many inventions i could make in the same time im sittin’ around a bunch of rando’s in front of a screen?”

“fair point..”

“so what’s the deal?”

“kenji wants me to attend, though i think there’s more things i could do.”

“similar minds think alike— ugh, dammit, how could i compare someone like you to someone as gorgeous and genius as me?” she cackled obnoxiously. how flattering.

“right then..”

“just fuckin’ suck it up and go, it’s better than being stuck in a dorm with dick-cheese— hell, you’re lucky if he’s out doing weird shit with his little gang or whatever.”

his face softened subtly, only to knit again into itself.

“anyway, it’s none of my business— atleast get to know some of the others.”

“noted, thank you.”

“yeah, yeah, just another helpful tip from the gorgeous girl genius herself.” she wagged her hand out. “now pay up, i know you have the money, cop kid.”

shuichi was taken back slightly. “why would I pay for a tip i didn’t ask for—!?”

“there you are! hey, quite bothering people will ya?” another girl of blonde ran up, a shorter girl of dark green hair following.

“maybe he’s another degenerate trying to feel her up, you don’t know!”

he attempted to collect himself as the two other girls came up to miu, the other girl of blonde offering an apologetic smile shuichi appreciated.

“i’m so sorry about her, shuichi—“

“hey, don’t apologise for me, i know what i’m doing.” miu retorts with an eye roll, the shorter girl shooting a skeptic look at him.

“ah, how do you know—“

“you’re the transfer, everyone gets to know the transfers name when it happens.” she responded. “kaede akamatsu—“ she began gesturing behind her quickly. “that’s tenko, we’re in co-ed together.”

shuichi nodded, eye widened.

“ah! that’s right..i’m so sorry i never got the chance to introduce myself before—“

“no, no! don’t worry about it!” she chuckles, glancing over as tenko and miu began to walk away before kaede turned her head back. “i totally get it, new school and people and the social jitters that come with it— you’re kokichis roommate too, right?”

he nods simply.

“hm..i take it kaito invited you to the common area later for movies?” she inquiries with a slight head tilt.

“i take it you overhead that conversation..?”

she chuckles, shaking her head. “he practically invited the entire co-ed class. plus, he knows we’re all in the same dormitory building soo…convenience as well as friendship bonding purposes?” she dragged on, shuichi chuckling idly as he adjusted at his neck.

“i suppose, yeah..”

“shoot— ah, i should probably get to class— am i gonna see you around or—?”

“i might stop by..”

“yeah? that’s great!” she responds quickly, begging isn’t her quick walk back down the hall before waving and smiling back. “see ya then!”

politely enough, he waved back, continuing to stand there for some time to think over the moment. maybe staying for a bit wouldn’t be that bad.

“so what’s the deal this time, boss?”

“well! i’m so terribly sorry our last few missions involved complicated and hard planning to pull out, so! i’m making it up to you all tonight.” kokichi encourages under his breath.

“tell us, tell us!”

kokichi brought up his hand from behind his back. “water balloons all over the campus.”

“huh? didn’t we do that already?”

“well sure, but these aren’t actually water balloons like last month— check it,” he happily shows, tossing the plastic balloon at the nearest alley wall, splattering against contact to show a fizzy colourful liquid that smeared everywhere. a round of chuckles to go around.

“soda filled.”

“we gotta get the dorms first.”

“oh and we will, come along!” he declared, pulling the childish clown mask over his face as everyone hauled into the van, moving themselves around and in to fit as once before it took off from the crevice it was parked away in, taking the road to the school.

once they had arrived, the van was parked outside the gates, kokichi stepping out with a clear view of the top floor from looking up at the sky, he wagged his fingers in a signalling manner, as everyone else was eventually climbing and hoping the gate. the great lawn, as it was referred to, below their feet as they spread out with their ‘ammo’

“go for it!”

and before anything else was said, a childish and crude attack around the building from every corner the others were spread out of soda filled water balloons spread across. across the walls, on the grass, on the trees and even windows for ‘extra points.’

all is fun in a night of tom foolery as he felt pride in himself to see his fellow members enjoy their fun as well, taking another ballon in hand to continue the fun. though like every good moment coming to an end, he groaned a little as he heard that authorities voice call out from afar, a small group in security decked uniforms approaching.

“hey! what are you doing on school property!?”

“scramble!” kokichi called lowering his voice in the process as everyone stopped what they were doing to scatter around anxiously yet skilfully, kokichi taking his own lead elsewhere back to where he came, keeping an eye on one of the guards chasing after him. keeping his breathing laboured and a proud smirk behind his mask as he ran around the side of the building, taking a quick jump up the gate and climbing to the top.

as he was about to make it, the tree lurking over proud and above kept him back, his arm cruelly scraping over a sturdy branch, causing him to stumble and fall over the other side.

a not so merciful land to the ground landed a grunt to be pulled from his chest, though, still getting back on his feet and to the van where that getaway would happen. somehow those guards gaining on them, and still getting away by the skin of their teeth as the leader jumped in the back while it started moving away, door slamming shut.

much to his relief, he pulled off the mask with a sigh and a chuckle. “man..that certainly beats a bank robbery, it’s been a while—“

“boss, are you alright? you took quite a fall.”

“pssh, i’ve been through worse—“ he turns his arm at the cut along the outside of his forearm, gushing blood but not enough to make him feel anemic. “guess i’ll slap this bad boy with a bandage, huh? did you guys have fun?”

“man, did you see how they—?”

“yeah, yeah! no— but oh my god, the fact you were able to hit ‘em down—“

“you should’ve seen how i hit that window form high!”

“what!? bullshit, no way!”

he chuckled idly to himself as the conversation struck up quick and lively amongst the others, head pressed to the wall of the van as they kept driving.

“next designation?”

“hell yeah!”

“yeah, let’s hit the city square next!”

“well, you heard ‘em!” kokichi called to the driver.

“understood, boss.”

surely he could use some sleep after this long night of events.

“—that’s gonta and ryoma, and right there thats angie.”

with the full quick run down of everyone in the common area plus a few others, shuichi nodded along, making glances around as he found a seat on one of the couches, kenji already taking his spot next to him.

“so nice of kaede to show you around, she’s a real sweetheart.” he starts.

“ah, you know me— can’t help but get invested in conversations.”

shuichi smiled gently. “it was helpful..thank you, a lot.”

“hey, don’t mention it, it’s what classmates are for.” she waved before taking her own seat by the tv. shuichi taking another glance around the area, a look or two at the movie playing before he sighed through his nostrils, the boy next to him already relaxed with his legs spread and a careless look.

“see? what’s I tell ya? totally was a good idea to come here.”

“it’s alright, i suppose..everyone seemed to know each other quite well.”

“observant as always,” he hums with a smirk, suddenly sitting up and facing the detective. “think you can be like that with me?”

“pardon?”

“observe me a little, ya know, since my way of talking is ‘hard to understand’ supposedly.”

shuichi opens his mouth before seething out a sigh. “i worded that horribly earlier—“

“nah, don’t worry, just your instinct talking. soo..just observe me for fun, like who i am as a person.”

he had a look of skeptic across his face rightfully so per usual, though more so this time something felt off. that familiar sense of caution and worry in his stomach he felt before but couldn’t place his fingers on before. he knew better to smother whatever else he might’ve thought before.

“well..i guess it’s natural to want to keep short hair year round because of what your family does..i imagine it’s harder to maintain longer hair and deal with it everytime you get involved in the water,” he states simply, kenji nodding with an impressed look.

“and I assume the grown out bleach is just a form of style?”

“sure is, can’t stand just having dark hair. gotta have a little freedom to stand out or whatever, ya know?”

“right..”

“wanna keep going with this whole observing thing?” he tries with a hum, subtly leaning closer. shuichi catching wind and keeping his space.

“I think I’ll watch the movie.” he said rather quickly yet firmly out of nowhere, that feeling in his stomach growing just to die down in peace as he looked back at the movie, wiping a palm against his leg.

“alright, gotta respect your wishes.” he casually shrugged off, leaning back against the couch with a fairly unreadable expression of disappointment. whatever game was being played, the detective already knew to keep that space.

he’ll let the time pass with the sound of everyone else’s voices overlapping the movie that was never watched in the dim room with running fans for the warm weather.

he remembered walking back to his dorm later that night, how the view of the moonlight just peeking in the windows and casting shadows of the doors of the solemnly calm hallways kept him awake a little longer.

maybe he could stare out some more, captivate the image. though, the first thing he needed was sleep, the only pro he had going for him was the suggestion to dress in pajamas before going down. all he had to worry about next was laying his head on the pillow and hoping the day would end, and whatever that feeling in stomach that bothered him to die.

or atleast he would hope to kill his worries if he didn’t suddenly feel something peering at him from behind. something he couldn’t place again, his hand instinctively reaching to the back of his neck to cover before he slowly peered over his shoulder. the detective nearly jumping at the sight of the leader standing so closely behind him with an unreadable expression.

“ignoring me so suddenly? how rude of you, saihara.” he teased under his breath in the deafening silence of the hallway and whoever else was asleep at the hour.

shuichi taking a step back instinctively from the barely seen gap between them, his hand finally leaving his neck.

“what was that stunt you pulled?”

“at that dinner party? like i said, i can be juuust as interested in you as you are in understanding me.”

“i don’t have time for this..” he scowls in a mumble form, opening the door just for kokichi to slip in, door shutting behind him and the detective quickly whipping around. he gathered his breath before speaking again.

“the lines we have are clearly blurred without any serious explanation.”

“don’t be rash, you want to so desperately understand me and I can partake in showing some likeness to you if you’re decently not boring.” that hellish grin creeping upon his lips as he seethed a sigh. “all of that big talk just to ignore me for days? and what’s with your little neck fetish?”

he was quick to catch onto the leaders behaviour, instinctively putting a hand out in a halting matter, kokichi’s chest coming in contact. he couldn’t help keep his toes in place, looking at the detective with a downward expression.

“I admit..I didn’t properly try speaking with you because I had things to sort out..and yet..” he looks at his own hand pressed to the others chest, quick to pull it like bare skin to frostbite.

“I want to understand you..” he begins, his hand falling at his side, kokichi only watching on. “but if you’re going to act..like this I’m not sure i can understand why exactly you do.”

kokichi simply scoffs at the idea. “oh please, don’t get it in your head. i wouldn’t dare consider someone like you as my type even if you wanted me that way.”

shuichi lifts his gaze. that feeling in his stomach before seemed to be alleviated, and yet, something replacing it, maybe heavier. he smothered the thought. kokichi shrugging carelessly.

“hey, if you want an understanding cause you want a friendship soooo bad be my guess and waste your time, but you’re not special to me or anything.”

“i’m glad we have that understanding— so then why—“

“it’s entertaining.” though something in the others tone seemed weirdly off, shuichi didn’t question it for once.

“right.” he answers simply with a sigh, turning to his bed. though he wished to open his mouth again, shuichi nearly froze in place as he felt a hand swiftly hold up the back of his hair.

kokichi didn’t say much more himself, only letting his thoughts ponder upon examining the disgustingly coloured gash on the others neck. swelling of grey and purple surrounding it. he let his ponders thought, and let curiosity get the best of him.

“what’s this?”

perhaps a good lie to match the embodiment of a lie as his roommate didn’t exist, he still persisted though, normalising his breathing and taking his breath.

“just a small wound from a case my uncle had me work on.”

“uh huh..” not saying anything more, kokichi reluctantly let his fingers fall from where he held the others hair, shuichi all too quickly willing to fix at his hair and make his way to his bed, kokichi still remaining in his place skeptically as he thought on further.

what a terrible liar, he thought to himself as he made his way into his own bed. he’ll get to the bottom of it eventually.

Chapter 6: 6.

Chapter Text

had he known the small bandage he much would have rather slapped on his arm would be replaced with some tacky gauze, kokichi would’ve wished to try his best to avoid that branch after taking that spill to the ground.

it felt itchy to say the least, but most of all looked horrible and stood from the rest of his uniform. as much as he wanted to sulk about it, he couldn’t complain anymore and just get on with it, maybe be lucky it wasn’t deep enough for stitches.

“how’s it all coming along with the scholar event?” kaede had asked, kokichi, mildly zoned out in thought knew best to peek a grin to the best, turning away from looking out the class window.

he cocked his head over his shoulder just enough at the blonde. “tip top shape, my dearest.”

she had wiped a hand on her skirt with a breathless chuckle, leaning against the window near him, poking her head out slightly at the view of the courtyard below, the cool wind blowing. “it sure looks nice, although..”

he turns his head to her, raising a brow. “hmm?” he dragged on intrigued.

“I gotta admit, this musical setup you want me to lead has me a little nervous.” she chuckled against, thought more awkwardly, arms crossed on the sill neatly.

“you? miss sunshine and disgusting positivity nervous?” he felt baffled at the idea, nonetheless, joked at her for it with a grin. “awh man, don’t tell me a cringey lie like that.”

“hey, knock it off! not everyone is perfect.” she applied firmly, brows furrowing and her cheeks turned with a puff. though, more so in a les serious way as kokichi only saw it like an angry puppy at most. a smile leaving him as he waved a hand.

“yeah, tooootally— like you’re not talking to the evil supreme leader himself.”

“unless you’re leading a murderous cult, i doubt you can call yourself that.”

“perhaps that’s what my organisation has been doing this whole time!” he proclaims quite dramatically, arms holding him up on the will and back faced away from her. the attention of a few students in the free period turning before looking away again.

”hiding beneath your noses with such a good facade of tom-foolery and jokes..such childish play just to be behind a mass killing of millions.” he continues on cooly, his voice dribbling in sham malice as his grin went from ear to ear. the young pianist not buying it, only moving to tuck some hair behind her ear with a sigh.

“right then..” she paused, making a meaningful glance to his arm. “what happened there?”

quick to snap back, kokichi held at his other arm, seething through his teeth quickly with a spectacle.

“kinda insensitive to ask such a question..i stabbed myself repeatedly with a pencil.”

“huh!?”

“it’s a lie,” he watched as she returned slowly annoyed, dropping his arm casually. “took a bad trip in the shower, that’s all.”

“you could’ve said that before, jerk.”

“takes the fun out of it.” he managed to lie through his lips with a smile, gesturing out the window as he turned to the view below again. “anyhow! like i said before, there’s a lot of people who appreciate beck and whatever that would totally kill to watch the performance of a good ultimate.”

“bach, you mean bach.” she corrected with a sigh, folding her arms in the sill again.

“same thing— just do whatever you do to get rid of the stage fright or whatever.”

“don’t act like you haven’t gotten stage fright before.”

“oh please, i’ve been put to gunpoint many times a little public speaking isn’t anything..” he dismisses, sticking his tongue out childishly, only for kaede to rightfully give a mortified look, slowly swallowing before speaking.

“you..i’m not sure if i want to test if that’s a lie or not.”

kokichi shrugged.

“I..ahm— right, you’re right—“ she clears her throat quickly, raising her demeanour as the leaders gaze followed. “i’ll do what I’m best at— put on a performance and inspire everyone else.”

“i’m shook in my boots.” he teased, tapping the front of his shoe on the tiled floor.

“you gonna be at the event?”

“pssh— they’ll probably want the whole council to be there for all i know, but I doubt I’ll really have any fun.”

“so that’s a no?” she slowly asked. kokichi resting his hand under his chin as shifted his view near the sky. the trees that lined just below and even the buildings that seemed to peer over menacingly, back to his before thoughts.

“i’ve got other things to think about..”

confiding in himself to go about his day was the least he could do while trying to complete disregard whatever was in development for him, moving the crisp pages of his book in the solitude of his bed.

barely wrapping his head enough around the mysteriously close gestures of kenji, and the even more unknown nature of kokichi ouma had him contemplating a lot.

even more so, whatever the hell he was going to do about getting himself away from whatever thoughts he had about the leader while trying to still get a grasp on him. he was viewed as free entertainment for the other and nothing more, and yet there was most definitely something lingering underneath.

shuichi was careful enough to make a glance at the other laid back in his bed just to look back in silence, he wasn’t sure how to go about the whole thing.

he made a tedious gesture to the back of his neck at another awful sensation of burning, just for the silence to be cut.

“is there a reason your mother is that cruel?”

that question had a wave of setback for the detective, setting his hand down to take a hesitant look at the other to be met with a few moments of silence.

“not that i feel any pity or whatever—“ he seemed to correct himself with a dull hum before continuing. “but the size of that gash isn’t from anything other than a metal ruler.”

he had felt the blood drained in certainty from his face. somehow, the silence still devastatingly solid and tense with the beat of his heart raising slightly.

“it’s nothing.” is all shuichi said, looking back at his book. kokichi now had his turn to look at the boy with a scoff.

“an ugly wound is nothing?”

shuichi takes a breath, before glancing back over at the leader, jaw tightening slightly. “and what about that wrap you have?”

“woooow, i was so generous and kind to show you some pity and you turn this on me. shame on you, saihara.” he scoffed, hand to his chest.

“you can’t exactly talk about my neck when you have a significantly larger injury than myself..and what possibly happened?” he raised his eyes.

“concerned?” he raised a brow boringly, sat back flat against the wall behind his bed.

whether or not a moment of sincerity, shuichi took a guess. a simple, yet calculated one as he thought generously. eyes narrowed before looking normally again as he sat up more.

“a group of jokesters attacked the next dormitory building over with balloons just to scatter off, and one of them attempted to climb the gate and took a bad fall.”

“what does that have to do with me.”

“the tree that hangs over that gate has a choppy uneven branch, and it only makes sense if they climbed that part of the gate before the fall they must’ve gotten caught on it in a desperate attempt to escape the security guards.” shuichi knits his brows, glancing down at the marked book in his lap. “other students were talking about it and it’s coincidental to have an large injury there.”

“wow, so you really are dumb.” he responds flatly, shuichi glaring at him almost just for kokichi to put his hands up with a smug grin.

“connecting me to that guy for whatever reason.”

“whatever..i’m sure the clown mask wearing gang leader who ran into a bad injury after a prank just a building over isn’t at all collected to you.”

“i mean really, you call yourself a detective then try to make a connection like that.” he dismisses, thought already well aware knew he was right about it.

“i don’t call myself anything.”

“better start calling yourself something, otherwise you’re really not as special as anyone else in this school.” he raises his gaze again.

shuichi, carefully returning back to his book with an unreadable expression dated to say one last word.

“seven inches.”

“wow, you’re small as fuck.”

“the wound on that person was said to be seven inches given the speed they cut themselves on that branch from how quick they tried to escape, and by the record of the blood that was left on the branch.”

kokichi slowly softened his gaze in focus.

“and even if you were extremely subtle with it, your breathing pattern was that of someone who made a park a few blocks away to not draw suspicion just to speed run back to the dormitories and up the stairs.”

on the dot.

“huh..” kokichi let’s out, head tilted to the side. “well..i guess your deduction could have always been worse.”

“I knew if i asked you anything yesterday you would’ve have just lied right away so i..gathered details.”

“how cute, you know me so well…for now.”

“sure.”

with a partial sum of the tension alleviating the air in tranquil, they could both be silent go on. usually enough, kokichi kept his gaze clear on the other boy and his perfectly framed eyelashes or whatnot.

something careful in his slim fingers and rosy knuckles turning the pages and whatever else, the leader knew best with whatever had changed with the aftermath of the night of that dinner party, didn’t wish to maybe get a bit closer before pulling back.

he couldn’t feel sorrow for a theory he didn’t confirm. so, he could only push one last time, something strangely sinking in his heart at the view of that terrible bruising and cut across his delicate skin.

“did your mom do that to you?”

like a prized possession tormented and touched horribly , kokichi thought. that strange sinking feeling rising into another sensation he couldn’t say weirdly enough.

“like I said before..it’s nothing, really.”

“what a lie.”

shuichi swallowed with a breath, keeping his gaze stuck to his novel. the leader didn’t dare miss a beat, speaking again more firmly. “believe me, you don’t spend time around bad things to not recognise certain injuries.”

his throat honeyed in heat, knowing he got his answer to the theory he thought over. days could pass before his skin healed properly. at the very best, leave a small scar across the beauty of his smooth skin for only closer eyes to view.

oh, very well. kokichi was well damned with a close knowing of whatever his heart might have been feeling for that moment.

“it could always be worse.” shuichi seemed to reply somewhat confidently, as if the subject was of nothing at all.

a prized possession he wanted to whisper his name over, say as his own. a bit selfish, though he went on. he let that feeling sink in closer, deeper. let his throat and chest heat up.

“so that’s a yes.”

“…i’d prefer we change the subject.”

a perfect yes in his eyes.

of course shuichi was special to him, he knew his whole life to be deceitful to others, though most of all to himself importantly.

how strange this feeling is.

a day in his thoughts was just what shuichi needed, atleast, trying to figure out what sort of shrubbery the school had planted beautifully all around.

something in particular that made him strangely real about the soon to come rain in the sky and light breeze in the wind as he found himself there again. looking out from the open corridor and the expansive view from stories up. a few students here and there mingling around, but nothing crazy enough to grab his attention.

all but until he couldn’t help but strike a notice in something change in the air. though it was desperately quiet before, he knew it shifted when he felt the need to turn.

he cocked his head to the side gently, only a few feet away, kokichi, leaned heedlessly and arms crossed up on the corridor sill.

a knitted expression as he seemed to be looking in the same direction as the detective, though a bit up, towards the sky. his bangs perfectly framing and somehow staying in their place despite the rest of his hair having a gentle tussle with the breeze.

he looked back, attempting to look where the other was looking. he hadn’t exactly noticed how the clouds intertwined together softly, so beautifully even in somber, in their shades of grey and far off blue. soft to the touch and so far out of reach for anyone. was kokichi fascinated with the clouds? wanting to reach a palm to the possibilities that needed just a little leap of faith in his spare time? he was certainly the creative type.

shuichi leaned his head out a bit further.

“careful, don’t fall.” the other seemed to say, the detective quick to pull back to where he kept his arms leaned and propped, clearing his throat. he was brave enough to look at the other, find him staring right back at him with a raised expression that never stopped grinning.

was it a possibility for someone to never stop their state of jocularity? always at peace with life itself and the many surroundings of it? maybe that’s why kokichi was so interesting, how one person with their own introspections and fixings on casual cruelty with deceit showed full fulfilment for life, it’s joys. he couldn’t wrap his head around it.

“do you come here often?”

“you’re terrible with pickup lines if that’s what you’re attempting,” he coos through another joke, shuichi knowing to smother his thoughts and move on.

“this would be a great opportunity to mess with someone.”

“well, you still haven’t completed understood how i work..” he begins, humming idly as he turns himself, eyes shut as he leaned with his back pressed against the stone walkway. shuichi watched idly as his head tilted back

“who knows..maybe i’m thinking of something evil and unforgivable to do to you since we’re alone here..nobody you could run to, ya know?” he offers, the first statement husky to give off a warning of some kind, anxious though sensible, shuichi takes a glance around then back.

”i’m guessing if it weren’t for the weather you could probably be messing around elsewhere for free period?” he hums, taking a step away from where he propped his arms, slowly navigating around, now kokichi’s turn to look as he put his head back up properly, pushing himself away from where he stood to walk towards him in the middle of the corridor.

“don’t get it mixed up, mister detective— i’ve got a little title to maintain so i don’t cause any ‘major’ trouble while in uniform.” he air quoted around major, shrugging off after as he walked past him. “i’m sure you get the idea of titles.”

“well enough.”

“and you’re toooootally sick of them.” he says right after in perfection with no cut off, his voice raising slightly as he turned back to the detective.”

“i’m sure any sane person would hate being chained to an expectation like that..” he begins, going on. “i mean..why else do you deliberately act and do your own stunts away from your parents?”

“atleast someone gets the idea,” he laughs, taking a few steps back before a small spin, head glancing around while shuichi watched intently, waiting for kokichi to return his gaze back to him.

“how am i supposed to get my freedom to life if i’m stuck to those bastards!?” he smiles, a small bit of pep in his voice despite the serious indication of the question, glazing over as usual.

freedom to life.

what exactly did that mean?

could the detective ever achieve a feat? he could only dream.

knitting his brows and another glance away before back the wind shifted again gently, sound erupting around as raindrops hit the ground, the view of the open area now basked with water coming down.

kokichi seemed to smile more brightly than typically, funny, as a quick thought. he was fast on his feet, thought shuichi was quick to catch onto it.

“hey, hold on!” he called out, running after the leader and whoever he ran to in such a hurry.

laughs scattered all throughout the echos of wherever the two ran, a chilling but hopeful feeling. he kept his pace up, though to say the least, kokichi could most likely qualify for track. he kept laughing and laughing and shuichi didn’t understand why he was chasing him, but he felt the need to.

“where are we going!?”

“just hurry up!”

“kokichi, wait! hold on— wait!”

“better catch up, detective!” he called back again over his shoulder, taking a jump down the last flight of stairs before hauling across the veranda of the ground floor, shuichi with his breath in his throat had finally caught up but still to his confusion saw as the other ran out into the school yard in the rain.

he paused as he watched the other have his fun, kicking around and taking a look up to the sky with that grin. despite the cold look of a drenched uniform and his hair curling under the water, he looked like he was on top of the world

shuichi only wondered. wondered as he kept his place dry under the roof of the veranda. he was a little cautious, pursing his lips momentarily and knitting his brows.

“you know we don’t have spare uniforms, right!?” he called out with slight concern.

“who cares!? c’mon, you’re missing out!”

“i..i’m not sure..we have classes after and—“

“make it up later, dumbass, you can’t get weather like this back for a while.” he called back out with a cutoff, making his way closer. shuichi watched intently as his features illuminated as he got closer, that grin that stayed proudly from ear to ear with perfect teeth as he extended a hand out to the detective.

the first time kokichi had reached himself out, and it was to ponder in rainy weather. he took a glance down at his outstretched palm, his slim finger that collected water droplets that fell to the pavement and back up.

“how about you forget about your stupid title holdup for a sec or whatever?”

“hmm?”

“awh, come on,” he raises a brow, letting his hand fall as he tilts his head. “maybe this is your first step to getting freedom to life.”

stepping out in the rain during school hours? watching alongside the joyful demeanour of who you proclaimed for sure the embodiment of mystery in human behaviour? there were some things shuichi really couldn’t wrap his head around.

and yet, maybe he needed to do whatever it takes to understand kokichi.

he softens his gaze gently in thoughts,, kokichi catching on with a smirk and putting his hand out a again.

he was slow, cautious to reach out. something about it seemed ridiculous and horrible. something further on in his thoughts he wanted to know how the others palm felt flat against his, wonder how the small scars and callouses across his hands got there and why they were there.

he hesitated so much that he barely reached out fully before kokichi reached out and grabbed at his arm, and with one quick swoop dragged him out into the rain as they ran together. the whole area seemed to be their oyster and shuichi didn’t say much about the other dragging him out before he let go.

“this is ridiculous!” shuichi protested.

“it’s fun is what it is!” the other insisted, somewhat offended, though couldn’t help but chuckle as the other attempted to fix at his hair, rolling his eyes and swatting the others hands away.

setting his hands at his side and returning his gaze, quick on his feet to run after kokichi as he started on his feet again.

he had no idea why he kept chasing him, he could have done so much more better things that day. go onto his next class, go on with his day however.

and what if he was needed for a case later? and yet still found him on his will chasing after the leader childishly. eventually finding himself laughing along with the other. puddles being kicked at each other and dodging around the shrubbery and so on. childish. it was fully on childish and in the moment he couldn’t find himself to care.

eventually, the detective halted, catching breath despite the chill from the water throughout his body, fixing at his hair carefully again.

it was silent, a little too silent so much to his instinct, he looked around for kokichi. left and right and around before seeing the boy catching his own breath bent over to hold onto his knees, with no help to himself but to smile, turning his gaze up to the other before slowly halting his movements, handing up properly as he adjusted to a thoughtful look.

“for the record, i still have to say this was a poor decision.” he says to the other with another breath.

“huh.”

he paused momentarily. “was it something i said..?”

kokichi went on strangely serious. “ya know..you’re..decently not boring, i have to say..”

he was taken back slightly, brows raised as he looked back at the other, more so taking to soul the sincerity of the tone. why else his heart told him otherwise, he tried to ignore.

he shrugged further, glancing away quick then back. “you could always keep sticking beside me if you really wanna figure me out.”

“huh?”

“you had fun with this, right?”

hesitant, he still nods on. kokichi smiles proudly.

“sooo..stick close, shuichi. you could get a little more enjoyment out of life, ya know?”

“ah..you said my name.”

“hm, did I? oh well, i’ll worry about nicknames later.”

“nickna—?” cut off, the other had already swooped his hand into the fountain beside them and threw it at the detective, shuichi holing his shoulders up and attempting to avoid it but failing miserable, kokichi cackling at the other.

“race ya back inside!”

shuichi knitted his brows, though smile determined. “alright then..”

and like before, the chase went on like before with banters of laughing, though with shuichi to join him as they escaped the weather to back into the school.

“do you mind explaining why you two were foolishly running around like children during free period?”

still very visibly damp, the two sat in chairs on the opposite side of the principals desk, the man with an unamused expression, arms folded and hands held on his desk, shuichi glancing down somewhat shameful.

“and ouma, really? i expected better.”

“with all due respect, sir, it was an act of fun.” he defended, leaned back in his chair. “but im sure stepping out of line is totally a big no no matter what, huh? boring.”

“i see, so you show no remorse for your actions?”

“no?” kokichi almost scoffed as he answered.

“im really sorry, sir, you’re right, it was irresponsible and unacceptable—“ shuichi began to apologise, only for kokichi to cut him short.

“what my partner here means to say,” he laughs, leaning forward with his legs spread, shuichi visibly distressed at his demeanour.

“is that we’re third years and you need to get off our case— and anyway, what are you gonna do, boot me off the council or something?” he threats mockingly, smiling after as he began a true threat. “i’m sure you wouldn’t mind my parents letting out that small bit of information about what you do in your free time.”

the principal seemed to changed his demeanour, still visibly annoyed cocking a brow, straightening his back as he sighed. proudly, kokichi leaned back in his seat.

“well, you two missed the rest of your classes being in here, so consider this a warning.”

“understood, sir.” shuichi was quick to say.

“head back to your dormitories, and i better not see this behaviour again.”

“no promises!” kokichi declared loudly, standing form his chair, making a twisted glare at the chair before looking back at the other man as shuichi had bowed briefly, making his way to the door.

“you’d better blow dry those chairs after us—“

“out.”

“heard!” he rolled his eyes and he followed out with shuichi. to the detectives relief as the door shut, he took a final look down at himself with a discouraged look, stains of grass and scatters of dirt specs across his pants and even the bottom of the uniform sweater vest. kokichi humming with small annoyance at the state of himself in similarity.

“i think a shower is due..”

“well, it could always be worse.”

“still.”

a sigh of relief seethed through shuichi’s nostrils as he lowered his head down, eyes shut as he let the warm water cover his body. flow down like the rain before but with some more comfort.

shuichi combed his fingers through his hair as he made sure to wash all the soap out, careful to avoid the gash across his neck to his best ability.

“by the way, if I catch a cold because of the rain, it’s fair to say its totally all your fault.” kokichi said over tan running water from the stall over. shuichi moving his head up and knitting brows in disbelief.

“you’re the one who dragged me out!”

“i know, it’s just a lie.” kokichi chuckled. “anyway, i’ll take my thanks for showing you how to have fun any moment now. the ultimate supreme leader doesn’t just offer his time to anyone.”

shuichi hummed under his breath, careful with his words. “so..i take it I was somewhat worth your time..?”

“good choice of words, you’re slowly getting the hang of being around me.”

“ah, well that’s good to know..” he answered simply.

taking a step away from the shower head, kokichi pressed his back against the tilted wall, thinking for a second before speaking to him.

“soo..answer me this.”

“alright then..?”

“if you expect to trust me enough to understand me, how about you be a little gracious with being truthful yourself.”

“i don’t think i follow.”

“the ruler injury.”

shuichi hesitated. “why it’s there you mean..?”

“sure. i doubt you’re stupid enough to do something like that willingly to yourself and you already admitted your mom had something to do with it.” he went on, putting on his apathetic tone, though kokichi knew why he wanted to know that much. rightfully so, silence fell all across, just the sound of the water hitting the floor and echoing throughout the expansive room. finally though, shuichi spoke up.

“I spoke back at her and that upset her.”

something about the answer seemed plausible enough from knowing how that family acted, though something still felt off, professional born liar attempting to detect whatever he really meant to say.

“and it totally didn’t have anything to do with me or whatever?”

“it..it sort of did.” he seemed to bite back.

“oh yeah?” kokichi calls back, curiously peeking his head from outside the shower curtain and over to the concealed stall next to him. “i’m flattered to know i’m on your mind.”

“enough..i just talked back to her and you happened to be the subject and she was enraged.”

“now was it so difficult to come clean?” and shuichi could practically feel that shit eating grin across the face. kokichi closed the curtain again. “you’re still a shitty liar.”

“i stepped out of line, that’s it, nothing more.” he not so assuringly affirmed, whether himself or kokichi.

eventually the sound of the shower came to a halt, water spiralling down the floor drain and the sound of a curtain opening. kokichi rolled his eyes and followed suit, turning off his shower and pulling the towel hung over the rack.

“guess you better find other ways to step out of line without that happening, huh?” he attempted to say casually, wrapping the towel around his waist and stepping out to fetch his clothes put aside on one of the benches, shuichi a few feet away at his own bench with his clothes, head tilted forward as he keenly dried his hair.

“i’m not like you, kokichi, i can’t just find freedom to things when or wherever.” he said softly.

the leader shot a glance at the others back faces towards him, his muscles smoothly shuffling under his skin as he moved his arms. shamelessly he kept his eyes there a bit longer, eventually looking back at the gash across his neck, that same feeling somewhere in his stomach twinging strangely.

turning back away, kokichi grabs at his clothes. “what, you’ve never heard of being sneaky?”

“that’s dishonest.”

“no, really, and the sky is blue.”

“you don’t have to be rude.”

he shrugs, heading away as he thought for a few moments. “whatevs, just giving you some advice.”

shuichi turned in return. “where are you going?”

“changing in the dorm, wouldn’t want someone like you staring me down.”

shuichi opened his mouth to protest, just to close it, strangely feeling taken back at the effect the words had. though the quick glance kokichi got of him back said everything.

did the saihara’s really have those sorts of ideas in their house?

Chapter 7: 7.

Chapter Text

the day ever so clear and bright brought about charisma and cheer for the scholar event. one of those arrays of displays and activities all around to do for students to mingle and get together as a free day from classes. though the main dining idea was the reason it was deemed ‘scholar’. parents coming in to see the achievements of their children, how their future should go on and so forth with their grown talents.

shuichi would have expected to find himself pulled into doing something, with how kaito or his other classmates talked up the event and what not. he never tried to think much about the future, though he had a clear idea of the occupation his parents had put onto him for most his life, he still worried about the unthinkable. the end of being a teenager, the start of a different way of life. he tried best to shake it away when he could.

he knew exactly where he would’ve ended up, just like any other union gathering or dinner party. he’d find himself glancing out the school windows every now and then as he walked the hall beside his parents, hoping to catch of glimpse of the many students outside enjoying the company of their classmates under the bright day and various snacks and beverages on hand.

his father and the principal as well as his home room teacher made good conversation the entire walk. though his mother keeping shuichi back some ways, without another word stopping him firmly to push her hand up the back of her sons hair.

he hitched his breath slightly as she spoke. the once open, bloody gash now coming together in a slow heal. definitely enough to visibly scar, though the bruising still barely there.

“i see its healing.”

“it is.”

she pulled her hand back, taking a quick inspection of her nails and giving him a disapproving look. “you had better learned your lesson.”

“i did.”

“i hope.” she scoffed. “the last thing i need is another reason for you to disappoint me with…that sort of behaviour.”

“understood, ma’am.”

a sigh escaped her lips as they began to walk to the others, making way to the career stand setups in the open hall.

“perhaps we should consider your girlfriend situation as of now. it’s best to start a connection like that at your age for future purposes.” she started, pursing her tone at the end. “and to assure you’ve learned your lesson.”

he slowly nodded. “yes, ma’am..”

“now, go on about exactly how well of a model my son has been.” she vowed a fake smile to the principal and teacher, conversation starting that he had no interred in joining whatsoever, boredom standing there but trying his best to look entertained.

atleast his boredom didn’t last long as he felt savoured in a way, kenji swinging by after stepping inside from the event, grabbing his attention.

“yo, detective, you gonna come out or what?”

“ah, i don’t think so, i—“

“and who is this?” his mother turned, interrupted. shuichi cleared his throat to speak just for kenji to push a smile. “kenji kotoro, ma’am. i’m shuichi’s classmate.”

she gave a questioning look at the boy with the chopped hair, eyebrows pursed. “ah yes, the boating industry I see. well, it’s certainly a..career choice, surrounding yourself in contaminated water and such.”

kenji immediately seemed unamused, humming awkwardly. “right, uh..we’re just gonna go now, so..”

“i don’t think—“

“well, i suppose..don’t eat too much while you’re out there, keep on your schedule.” she waves her hand dismissively before turning back to conversation. shuichi taking a full moment to take in her words before moving to walk outside to the events with kenji. the other boy scoffing under his breath.

“some detective attitude from the mrs… hey what the hell was she talking about a ‘schedule’?”

“it’s— nothing— how have you been?” he quickly dismissed.

“it’s been sometime, we haven’t really talked much.”

“ah, i’m sorry, does that bother you..?”

“pfft— not at all, man, i’m teasin’” he smirked, lightly bumping into shuichi’s shoulder just to dance on his feet after a little. “i saw we hit up the fry stand first, they’re handing out some free drinks too.”

“shouldn’t you look around before getting food?”

“what, you’re not getting anything?”

“i left my wallet in my dorm.”

“oh uh, I mean i could pay for you if you want—“

“it’s fine— i mean, i planned on having a large dinner later so..” he cut in with clarification, awkwardly looking off aside.

“oh yeah that makes sense. well, what do you wanna do first?”

“hmm..I suppose—“

“shuichi!” a voice called out. before he could fully turn around to take note. two arms were quickly wrapping around his neck from the side in embrace before stepping back, kaede laughing gently with another familiar face leading beside, kaito.

“glad you made it! it’s nice seeing familiar faces here, huh?” she joked, kaito huffing proudly. “hey, hey! with all our classmates out here, this is a big bonding moment.” he somehow managed to boom over the music playing, shuichi nodding with another glance around then back.

“i take it there’s some activities to keep us entertained aside from the food and creatives?”

“hell yeah! over by the tracks.” kaito gestured with a fist, thumb extended out to point behind him out by the tracks and friend where there was a display of all sorts of games.

kenji leaning his arm against the detectives shoulder. “i call on shuichi being my partner for volleyball.”

“I..don’t really play sports, i’m afraid—“

“dude, please?”

“guess it’s me and kaito versus you two then.” kaede acknowledged. “best of luck because we’re definitely beating you guys..uh— it’s a friendly competition of course.” she awkwardly chuckled afterwards with a small blush. kenji groaning. “well you got the jock head on your team.”

“you calling shuichi a bad partner?” kaito smiled jokingly.

“he’s calculated enough to catch and throw a ball, best partner choice ever.” he retorted to the taller man, sticking his tongue out before grabbing at his arm and running with a lead to the tracks and field.

“i can walk on my own!” shuichi called.

“don’t care, c’mon! we can’t lose!”

the first part of the event wasn’t all entirely as bad as shuichi was nervous it would be. he was able to get into the swing of how volleyball worked and played a good game under the sun for a few rounds, taking a successful win with kenji.

is what would be said if the detective had any knowledge of sports. only getting a good few hits in without awkwardly stumbling, kaede and kaito ended up cheering for their victory and hugging with wide smiles. though all was fun in the end, and shuichi was just happy to be there.

they eventually moved onto smaller activities, throwing a frisbee or kicking a ball so and so which was easier to catch onto, before shuichi eventually sat himself out with a bottle of water. he just only hoped this could go on a bit further, the last thing he wanted being that he would need to be near his parents. his mother. he enjoyed the moments to his full potential.

“they sure have a weird way of acting.” kokichi bluntly states, leaning against an open window on the top floor.

“it’s all a front— those people probably have generational dollhouse syndrome or something. i wouldn’t be surprised if they were doing super fucked up things behind closed doors” one of the other boys replied, the taller beside with agreement. the cigarette they passed around not so gently making itself present in the air.

“indeed..even despite overcoming rumours and a bad past with their endeavours, it’s truthfully a terrible facade for their behaviour.”

kokichi shrugged. “my parents did shitty things in their time but still raised me decently…excuses, excuses.”

“well that’s all you man, everyone here has something to say about their parents but then whaddya expect from this shithole?”

one of the boys cooly hummed. “remember that time you came over late and my dad freaked like crazy?”

“oh yeah— fucker left a hole in the wall from tossing that water bottle— what was it, metal or something too?”

“think he was aiming at me.”

kokichi, ignoring the supposed to be depressing topic of parental abuse in ‘up high title’ houses, he thought back to his original words, finally pushing himself off from leaning on the window to reach for the cigarette. the other boy handing it over with a scoff.

“anyway, why are ya wasting your time worrying about that kid? it’s totally useless.”

“well for one, ‘that kid’ is my roommate, so i can’t exactly ignore him if I wanted to.” he states with pursed brows, taking a careful drag before giving it back and sighing out some smoke, waving his hand at the smoke.

“sure you could, my roommate watches porno crap at night and i just wear my headphones.”

“told ya watari had a problem..”

“whatever shit he’s into is none of my business, man.” the kid dismisses, going back to the topic. “anyway, he’s not even a legit cop, he’s just copying what his mommy and daddy tell ‘em to do.”

“you’d actually be shocked what someone like him is capable of.” kokichi simply smiles, before shrugging his tone off with a more apathetic one in a perfect facade, leaning back against the window.

“and second of all, it’s not that I care about whatever his house has going on but when your family has an intertwined union you eventually learn stuff.”

“they let you get away with shit for money, yeah—?”

“dude, hook up a guy and get me some of the good stuff.”

kokichi flashed a shameless look of disgust. “get that crap yourself, i don’t do favours.”

“oh of course, oh wise ultimate supreme leader.”

“all hail our loyal king over here.”

“well, i’m bored now.” he chuckled dryly, pushing himself away from the window. “stomp that out, will ya? this place smells.” he waves dismissively before exiting the room to make his leave with a long sigh, leaving the room of guy students in laughter and chatter.

dollhouse syndrome seemed atleast a little accurate, or whatever that guy had stated. he remembered seeing it all the time as a kid. his dad laughing about an article in the morning paper or on the news about a highlight while he played with his action figures in the living room, leaving lots of conversation.

kokichi grew to understand he never exactly had what someone would call a ‘normal’ home environment. his mom and dad were out a lot doing their work that he eventually gained awareness of over time. learned the ropes of underground work and how connections with locals and people in organised groups benefitted their position with trade and exchange, maybe a few fights now here and there, but at the end of the day he still had a mother and a father, and they always found time to spend together and bond.

did he despise his parents for the worst downsides of the work they do? of course, but he at-least had enough appreciation for them showing up.

it was a calm winter day that time with school off, he was playing with some new action figures he had gotten for christmas in the living room with a city like setup with legos, a mock superhero storyline he made up. and his father was there again, idly watching his son on the couch in nicely fitted clothes while laughing and commenting at his morning paper.

the saihara’s always came up in conversation, there wasn’t a time kokichi never heard of them.

‘detective gone rogue: read more.’

‘saihara’s make big break on mackovolo case, new record?’

‘crime rates down significantly, congrats.’

it was always something with that family, whether with the uncle or the mother and father.

for all of their amazing work yet dirty things done behind scenes, and the on going feud with the ouma’s, kokichi was amazed they had gotten to an agreement at this point, perhaps maybe the main reason he didn’t see shuichi around at a younger age.

well, in full picture atleast. any and all alliances made within their family he had the grace of having classmates and play dates with their children. and yet, he never got a full look at shuichi saihara. the one time he did though, it was interesting.

an extremely frowned upon idea given the status of crime organisation his family had control over, his father had taken up the idea of ‘bring your kid to work day’ to its advantage. it was a slow day kokichi didn’t pay mind to, mostly because he had a colouring book with him while his father sat in meetings for time after time. though with the day over and given the complaints of him, they took a detour to the park nearby.

there were a few kids around here and there, but slow nonetheless for the cloudy weather.

kokichi must’ve immediately ran to whatever piece of playground equipment he found suitable for him first, something high up like to the slide or maybe the monkey bars, he didn’t fully remember.

but he saw the weird sight away off the playground. a small boy around his age near the bench area where the adults watched their kids. an outfit way too sophisticated for his age picking at the grass and whatever else was by his feet, an equally sophisticated woman sat perfectly on the bench, not paying too much kind to her child, keenly checking her nails or elsewhere, like she was annoyed to be there.

he had a peculiar look to him, a distinct shade of blue locks that tucked behind his ears and bangs that seemed close to covering his face nicely. his large, pale green eyes keeping focus on whatever he was picking at the ground.

curious enough, he moved from that high area and hummed atuned to himself as he kicked the woodchips underneath, moving closer until his feet hit the edge, the noise catching the others meek attention. just to have those large eyes look at him with wonder.

he wasn’t entirely sure what he felt upon that small meeting. the upcoming leader had to admire the other boy temporarily, with his soft looking face and nervous smile that creeped across in expression, yet some weird gut feeling that felt dangerous to be near him or atleast near that woman by him, who, upon seeing kokichi and that shade of purple and distinct curl of his hair, stood from her seat in an alarming manner.

he remembered the woman grabbing at her child from the ground by the arm and beginning her strut away with an even more annoyed expression across her face, the child turning back to give kokichi another look before slowly turning back.

strange how that gut feeling when he was a kid stayed even now at his ‘big’ age of seventeen, going on eighteen soon.

so yeah, he didn’t exactly have that much of a perfect life to brag about, but he knew when to be grateful and when to listen to himself.

he just really needed to swap for shuichi’s roles momentarily to truly figure out whatever the hell was happening in that house for how terribly it bugged him from day one.

“i dunno, i feel like you could get better with practice.”

“yeah! what this guy said, you’ve got it in the bag.” kenji added after kaito, wiping some sweat from his brow with his shirt, shuichi clearing his throat with a sigh momentarily. “i’m not very confident in that idea.”

“no, seriously!” kaede encouraged. “you’d be great in more class activities.”

“well…it’s just that tenko gets rather competitive in tug of war from what i saw..”

“ah, yeah— that’s just how she is,” she chuckles putting up her hands. “she..act’s especially hard when it’s boys vs girl’s activities.” she lowers her voice trailing off awkwardly. kenji shuddering. “yikes..but seriously— consider it, imagine you join just dance at another class sleepover.”

he was brought into an impactful and strong embrace by the other with a wide smile. and despite the encouragement, shuichi felt something pull and twist in his stomach poorly. he gave a look at kenji before making sure to firmly step away, kenji only giving him a furrowed look.

“yeah, what he said— but i gotta warn ya and not to brag,” kaito flashes a finger at himself, pointing proudly. “i go pretty hardcore at single ladies.”

“that’s..not something you should be proud of, i don’t think.” kaede hesitates with saying, kaito catching himself with embarrassment, attempting a backup.

“yeah, well— kokichi beat me at rasputin so i need a backup party trick!”

“sure you do,” kenji snorted. “hey detective, wanna head to the concessions? my treat.”

“again, i’m..im alright—“ he clears his throat. that same feeling still pulling as he checked the time upon his phone, putting it back in his pocket to walk off. “excuse me, i need to go..it was fun guys, really.”

“see ya, shuichi!”

“yeah, see ya man!”

shuichi politely waved after them before turning his back to leave through the crowd in timely order. he wasn’t sure if he needed a fullproof ‘excuse’ to leave because he surely wasn’t needed for more lecture on his future plans with his parents, but he knew at the very least to chase away that feeling in his stomach from that much too close contact, something within kenji’s movements and way he acted feeling familiar.

he could worry about it later, though he needed to think of other matters as he momentarily bumped into someone else’s shoulder, his body jerking to see who he ran into for the other man to tower over leanly with a smile.

“oh, saihara, i wasn’t sure if you would be here.”

“komaeda, hi— ahm, i’m sorry, I—“

“no worries whatsoever! of course, a worthless someone as myself should really pay more attention, i guess..” he awkwardly laughed with a dismissive hand, only to gesture to the building. “are you aware you parents are looking for you, or..?”

“No— no i, oh, thank you so much—“

“of course, there was a mention of another dinner party you all would be attending,” he offers a gentle smile, arms folding over himself. “matters that need to be discussed within secondary partnership.”

he treaded the question carefully, before understanding the leaning behind with a slow nod. “ah, i see..”

“i wish you best of luck for that…though, to my knowledge, some others you know were invited to the party as well..but i’m not exactly confident in the full details, i apologise.”

“ah, no it’s quite alright— uhm..are you going to be one of the ones attending or—“

he chuckles quickly. “definitely not, i’m afraid relationships formed that way aren’t for me..actually, i should be off finding someone…perhaps we’ll run into each other again.”

“ah, maybe..enjoy the event, komaeda.”

the other kids before making his leave, shuichi leaving a sigh heave from his chest before entering the building, his father already beating him to a welcoming, the sudden appearance spiking his heart just a little.

“i see komaeda explained the details.”

“yes, sir.”

“a shame he won’t be attending, a fine young man like that could surely find the right woman with enough socialising.” the suited man hums modestly at his son, shuichi smoothly running a hand across his chest to fix at his uniform vest awkwardly.

“this should do you some good— your uncle will drop you off after your work when classes are over.”

“yes, sir.” atleast he was relieved to know he could have some peace away from them for some time being. now that he pondered it, he wondered if he could’ve been saved so much trouble if he had custody over shuichi rather his parents. oh well.

“what a joke..”

“what’s with you?” miu scoffs, finishing off what was left of her disposable drink from the event much earlier on, kenji with a scorned look across his face as they walked back to the dorms.

“i mean..i thought we were cool, had something good going on—“ he rubs a hand over his face with a low sigh. “so why is he acting like that all the sudden.”

she almost choked upon her last sip through her straw, hitting her chest after to shoot a shocked look.

“oh, so you got hots for him, huh!?” she shook her head and shook her cup around obnoxiously. “didn’t think you were on that side of the fence.”

“boy or girl, he’s the most beautiful being to cross the school paths.”

“oh-ho, water boy is a poet now.” she mocked, taking a final look at her empty cup before tossing it in a nearby bin. that conflicted look still drawn across his face in much distress.

“i really thought he coulda felt that way back.”

“right..” she starts, throwing a nudge at his shoulder, catching his attention. “no offence, but i’m not really sure someone like you could’ve been his type anyhow— you’re not exactly the sharpest tool out there, like me.”

he shoved her hand away annoyingly, shooting a glare. “and what do my grades have to do with this? He acted interested before, so what gives?”

“you need to tone it down with your delusion, idiot.” she lectures with a dismissive hand. “i’m just putting the facts out there. i could care less about who you want to get your dick soaked with but be realistic.”

his face dropped, that scornful face still stuck, he turned away with a low scoff. “whatever..”

“and maybe the guy just felt grossed out or only saw you as a guy to hang with.” miu seemed to pick up his annoyed energy, though not in agreement, but with him. “don’t expect me to know how boys think, maybes he’s not even into that.”

“you really think he’s not..”

“again, don’t fuckin’ ask me!” she groaned, beginning her walk away in the building. “figure your boy drama out yourself, i’m showerin’.”

without another word and only harsh staring, kenji took into account that boiling feeling growing terribly within his chest.

perhaps he had been going about this all wrong, shuichi was just sticking around in a friendship manne, since day one of conversation and touring the school, he only showed gratitude for some simple kindness. and kenji never even considered the others field of who he might have liked.

and yet, he still felt conflicted with much other things. he wasn’t the best person out there, certainly not good grades, but he tried either way.

and what about that haunting figure of a character that occupied the other bed in the dorms? the one who held the student body under his finger and had much many traits as himself? what was so different between the two? and what was the detective’s infatuation with that so called leader anyhow? and why was shuichi’s eyes always looking his way?

god, how he despised ouma.

“so..what’s your favourite colour?” the girl asked, much disinterested.

“hm?”

“if you’re gonna space out, i might as well just leave.”

“uh…navy blue.”

“of course you’re one of those guys.” she sighed with a head turn, taking a sip from her glass, shuichi taking his turn looking away as well. “whats…your favourite colour?”

“y’know, you suck at this,” the girl huffed. “it’s orange.”

“alright, ahm…what do you plan to do in the future?”

the girl took one last look around before eventually giving a weak chuckle and walking off. to his confusion on why she decided to talk first then leave, he brushed off quickly, his father near by seemingly to say another word with disappointment.

“you’re barely showing any interest in any of these young women here.”

“i’m interested…” he starts with disdain. “this is just all very forced—“

“and who is to blame?”

“..myself, sir.”

“understand, this is for your good. the sooner you find yourself in a relationship, the better.” he sighed through his nostrils. “anyhow, it’s like it was said before.”

“i’m aware, clear your conscious, forget your behaviour.”

“good, you’re learning.”

he weakly nodded. “no behaviour of that sorts…like you said.”

“glad to know you’re learning something for once.”

shuichi didn’t say anything more, making note of the space between him and his father as he glanced at his untouched plate of random pickings he collected from the spread of food in the next room over. making his leave, he left the plate elsewhere before hoping to find atleast one other person to talk to. at the very least, he could exchange information with someone before the night and to an end so he had something to show for.

though, he still really hated how this all came to be from one misunderstanding. of course, he never would think to try and have a certain passage of heart for another make his age, it wasn’t an option and it was far too strange. horribly disgusting even. whatever strange sensation came across his heart temporarily at the moment was nothing more than mere adoration for what he thought was him being ‘seen’. yes, the only reasonable explanation. it’s just a core thing he felt a want for, a little bit of being seen for lost time his mother and father had their back turned or scorned him for seemingly existing.

he didn’t leave his heart open to men, it wasn’t a way of life for him. he could only regurgitate whatever he thought he had played off as a love similar feeling and feel disgust at himself for the moment.

with enough hope to leave the event with a piece of paper and a number, he wouldn’t need to experience another act of his knees giving into the carpet for dear life again. far worse than any prayer he would’ve been said to utter in sultry desperation.

and yet, he felt terrible still. there were many beautiful women there, with neat kept hairstyles that brushed above and below their shoulders, or their pointed shoes that tapped the floor so gracefully beneath them like a swam across an inhospitable lake. an image he conjoined from a book or two, for all their such beautiful shapes in their faces and every line and dent from the smooth of their palms and the movements of their arms, charm in their eyes. what wasn’t there to admire.

yet that feeling died and kept attempting it’s rise as he made his own hair glance across the other men his age around. the detective didn’t see much difference, really, all humans a like with their own special likeness and charm to them. the same dents and curves and smooth and rough sun their hands to the shapes of their face. how the talk or walk.

perhaps a flash of a smile and exchange in greetings a bit more obnoxious than a group of girls, but all humans nonetheless. there was too much about himself he knew so little of, and seemingly all the same, too much. it was shameful and dammed. he could only wish to brush off whatever he felt quick. push it deep down or let it die in hellfire.

he remembered staring down at the neat handwriting of the paper he kept folded in his pocket from earlier in the night. the moon, the only thing keeping a light across the paper for clear vision so deep in the night from that bay window he sat in, legs pulled to his chest as his mind just couldn’t handle to rest. he pitied himself, laughed at the idea of ever finding a day to sleep without interruption.

shuichi took a glance away from that meaningless paper, it was cruel to even hood but he was sure enough to keep a facade up in the mean time until his mother could turn her back again. one of the nights he had the whole of the dorm to himself, atleast he thought so. his clock read in a bold glow of green almost one o’ clock in the morning. whatever plans kokichi returned back from with DICE, it was sure enough he would head straight to his bed with no time for jokes. he kept his view out the window further more at the extensive view under the night sky, those wild thoughts still haunting him terribly.

his stomach wired into his heart and connecting all three at once, what he would give to quit thinking for some time, perhaps find a way to make sense he surely didn’t feel that way to anyone he knew not to.

and more importantly, why his head and heart betrayed him, strung that feeling strongly when he was around the leader. something so silly like running in the rain, dirtying his shoes and feeling the others cold hands reach out, pull forward and flash a smile.

shuichi couldn’t make sense of it, though, he was grateful as he felt himself finally drift off, eyelids heavy with betrayal to keep staring at the view, head resting against the glass as he finally closed his eyes under the intensity of restlessness.

Chapter 8: 8.

Chapter Text

slowly opening his eyes, he made sure to keep himself situated under th blankets with his eyes to the ceiling. he was so engulfed in warmth and barely up to acknowledge the dim light peeking in the room to be considered woken up. shuichi wished to stay there for the rest of the day, keep himself intact and become one with the mattress, blankets wrapped around like a perfect hug.

yet, something else seemed out of place in all the warmth. something he couldn’t put his finger on until he took one final blink to recover correct vision, turning his head carefully to see over his bed.

on the floor, a familiar limp and exhausted boy passed out in regular clothes, kokichi’s hand barely reaching up to the tip of shuichis bed, and staying there. almost as if he were reaching out, so close the tips of his fingers barely grazed his hand.

he jolted up with confusing, leaning over the edge to usher him awake. eventually, kokichi loud out a snort as blinked his eyes once or twice, finally bringing shuichi into his vision properly.

“good god, why are you up so early..”

he sat back in his bed as kokichi pushed through the grogginess and sat up with a groan.

“did you fall asleep there?”

“well…i was planning on sleeping on the ceiling like a spider, but that felt way too boring for me.” he replied between a yawn.

“and you’re still in your clothes—“ he registered his own position, pushing the blankets aside. “hold on, i don’t remember getting into bed last night..”

“all thanks to your one and only ultimate supreme leader.” he smugly smiled at shuichi, pointing to himself with his thumb before returning his hand at his side. “man, pants suck to sleep in.”

“wait, so— hold on, you..put me in my bed?”

“so graciously threw you over my shoulder and tossed you there like a UFC match..actually that’s another lie, i was wayyyy too tired to change and get in my own bed after i helped you back in your bed.”

“ah, i see..” he moves to let his feet rest over the edge, standing to his feet as the leader stood himself up, stretching his arms.

“I appreciate the thought but, i can’t imagine that was a good sleep for you— i mean you were sleeping on wood and in your clothes…not even a pillow with you under your head, I feel terrible.”

“well, what can i say. I pitied you a little coming back late and seeing you passed out on that sill.” he gestured to the bay window, finally making his way to his closet. “but whatevs, don’t expect me to do anymore charity work like that.” he hummed lowly, something hiding behind a snotty tone that’s as so clearly faked.

“I…appreciate you showing care, kokichi, really. I’ll promise to not be foolish like that again.”

the leader shoots a look over his shoulder, unreadable, before turning back. “whatever.”

shuichi picked up on his turnaround, smiling softly to himself before pushing away back to his normal thoughts, moving to his own closet.

“how was your round about with DICE?”

“so and so,” kokichi starts grabbing at clothes. “who’s your new girlfriend?”

shuichi almost paused completely, any trace of tiredness vanished as he looked kokichi’s way. the leader casually talking on.

“how did you—?”

“heard through komaeda you went to that little speed dating dinner party on request of your parents— or is it more appropriate to say forced instead of request?” he shuts the closet doors and tosses his clothes on his bed. “either way, good for you getting game.”

“it’s..not entirely as what it seems,” he clears his throat, disappointed at the thought of the party. “to be honest, i’m not sure if i’ll even continue talking with the person who gave me that number..”

“what a pity, maybe that poor girl was into you.”

“most of the people there didn’t even seem interested to be there,” he closes his closet as he grabs his clothes. “it’s all so forced..”

“well don’t get too discouraged, someone close by might have the hots for you.”

“you think so?”

“maybe.” kokichi answered plainly, pulling his shirt over his head to change it. shuichi making sure to turn back his own way, moving to set his clothes on his bed and take a moment to check his phone.

“wow, it’s saturday already, huh?”

“time flies when there’s no classes. the rest of the class had some mall trip planned later everyone is invited to.”

“are you going to be going?” shuichi asks, patiently keeping his view down, fiddling at a loose piece of string on one of the articles of his picked clothes.

“definitely not, the last thing i need to is to be pulled into some sentimental friendship bond crap with consumerist shopping.” kokichi mocks with a chuckle, shuichi shaking his head.

“you could have just said no.”

“I’ve got things to sort out with the council and the closing of the scholar event yesterday, so have fun with everyone else.”

“what do you mean..?” he feel a tap on his shoulder, carefully turning around to see kokichi fully dressed in new clothes, now knowing it was safe to look back as kokichi grabbed at a few essential pocket items at his bedside.

“like i said, everyone is invited and kaede is all for including everyone, so have at it.”

“that’s very nice of her.” he acknowledges, looking back at his phone. “maybe i should ask kenji if he wants to come.”

kokichi pauses as he shoved his wallet in his pocket, turning over his shoulder slowly. “that bum?”

“he hasn’t been responding to me at all since yesterday..maybe a hangout like this would give time for some explanation?” he looks at the leader hopefully, before back at his phone carefully.

“he’s not a part of the class, so he doesn’t have a right to be there.” he stands from where he kneeled to see the bottom shelf of his nightstand. “maybe he’s off fishing or something.”

“did he do something to you?”

“plain and simple, i don’t like the guy. and besides, if he’s ignoring you maybe the guy wants to be alone or whatever.”

shuichi softly sighed, setting his phone down. “i admit, he has some certain..flaws, but there’s nothing about him that could put him out as a bad guy to what i know of so far.”

“you’re a detective, you’ll figure it out.” kokichi shrugs off with a casual smile, patting the others shoulder to head for the door. “i’ll make my leave so you can get changed now, enjoy your day, saihara.”

“wait—“ though quickly cut off, the door shut behind the leader, shuichi dropping his face, noticing the use of how kokichi had been addressing him the whole time, rather than that day in the rain.

maybe he was just feeling extra adventurous that day, a one time occurrence he should forget about. no, it wasn’t that, it was something else he was hiding he could figure out. though on the other hand, he still had to worry about getting dressed for the day and heading to the mall with the others. maybe even figure out what was going on with kenji.

“it’s pretty pricey.”

“i don’t care, just give it to me.”

“whatever, jackass.” the student scoffed annoyingly, switching hands with the other boy to take the stack of cash and hand over a flash drive, counting the money and shoving it away in his pocket.

he took the devic in his hands, examining it around before fiddling with it between his fingers.

the other student, unamused and with a groan, kept his back leaned against the wall, looking around for anyone else possibly eavesdropping. “this is stupid, what kind of crap are you trying to pull you need to do this exchange in the school? on a saturday, no less.”

he shot a glaring look at the other before promptly shoving the drive in his pocket. “because you’re going to keep your mouth shut unless you want it shut permanently about what i’m using this for.”

the other student shot his hands up im defence, though still very much unamused. “i’ve got my money, i’m no snitch.”

“good, i’d keep that mindset if i were you..though any drama that spills in this damn school is like a sugar trap for flies.”

“this is sick. you gonna atleast let me in on what’s happening?”

“nothing too bad.” he lets a deceiving smirk crawl across his face. “i’m just hoping to get it through to a certain.. someone that I always get what i want.”

to say the least, it still felt very much awkward to be in a large area with a bunch of people he still wasn’t entirely familiar with, but knew them enough. shuichi looked around the mall, kaede proudly announcing the game plan.

“i think it’s best if we all split up and do our own thing, we’ll meet up back here at the end, kay?”

“sounds good to me.” a bit of green hair cooly replied, miu quickly interrupting. “dibs on maki being in my group, i’m hitting spencer’s first.”

“that is the last store i’d ever be seen in..” she replied coldly, miu rolling her eyes and still ushering her to follow lead.

“hey shuichi! you and me, yeah?” kaito proclaimed loudly, slapping a hand across the others shoulder encouragingly, causing his shoulder to hitch up temporarily.

“oh, uh— sure, why not?”

“awesome! they got a sports store up another floor we can check out!”

“have you considered the possibility of what he may want to look around into?” a taller man with waist length hair and a mask spoke creepily.

“he strikes me as the guy who likes the gym.”

this guy…is horrible at perceiving others. he brushed it off with a dismissive hand. “i’m sure i’ll find something afterwards..”

“i’ll tag along with you two! the clothing store i shop at is next door.” kaede spoke up, moving to stand next to the two boys, shuichi letting out a soft sigh of relief as they began their walk, temporarily looking back over his shoulder at everyone else then back.

“ughh,” he groans lowly from the pit of his throat, head back in the chair. “can’t believe we gotta be here on a saturday.”

“ouma, you’re quite literally the head of this council..”

“weren’t you the one that called for this meeting?” another student inquired. kokichi waving a hand.

“I have the rights to be dramatic..so!” he sits up, arms crossed against the table. “what are the results?”

komaeda brought up a bundle of stacked papers, proudly talking. “positive overall once again like last year. the stands did well, the performance by akamatsu got much loved feedback, and the tallied sign ups for college transfers are all filled.”

“excellent!” he lets out a long sigh of content. “it’s soooo satisfying to know when good work pays off…like always.”

“and we still have quite some of our budget expenses left over to consider next year..it’s so miraculous what a day of shining hope will bring you to in the end.” he softly chuckles, looking through one of the papers again before passing them off to the student next to him. kokichi looking over.

“oh, is that so? i would’ve thought the music set up and dear kaede’s performance surely would have taken it all up.”

“it took up a large majority, yes,” another council member spoke, a finger to her lips contemplating. “though, we did have a few last resort donations brought in without much words..it was still thoughtful though.”

“it must’ve been from sonia, she did give her gratitude for the uh..heavy songs that played during the track race contest.” komaeda inquired.

“no, actually it was from the saihara’s.”

kokichi raised a brow. “go on.”

“last word they gave, they were pretty delighted their son was headed in a ‘good direction’ with his academics and being at the event showed a change. I guess it was their own way of thanking the school, so it should almost be enough to cover the next years event.”

“huh..” he thought for a moment, slowly leaning back in his chair to take in the information, komaeda looking his way. “is something on your mind, president?”

“that whole family is a bunch of snobs…it’s just a little hard to believe they want to cover next years event just because the event ‘made shuichi happy’, i’m not buying it.”

“whatever, it’s not our business to look into a kid and parents dynamics. the important thing is that we can start thinking about getting a celebrity here to preform next year maybe.” another member suggested, the others at the table starting to talk.

“they also mentioned his academics, sooo—“

”good grades or happiness, whatever— i’m not buying it, people like them don’t just give out a handout like that.”

“you seem a bit passionate about your hatred towards them, prez, you getting hot headed?”

“yeah, who cares—! as long as we have the money, we can keep focusing on our efforts to push the better image of the school.”

kokichi waved his hands dismissively, falling back in his seat with his head back. “fine, do whatever with the money— suzuhara and naomi can handle that and I want a written out detailed passage on what next years plans will look like. or at the very least, a rough draft.”

a few heads nod and talk in agreement, kokichi thinking back in about a moment, komaeda looking over once again.

the meeting came to an end in pass time, leaving the leader to pull annoyingly at his uniform with a sigh, komaeda finishing putting away some papers away on a shelf, head over shoulder.

“i don’t understand what your infatuation is with his parents so much..i mean..of course it’s natural to get involved in the details of alliances like these..” he crosses his arms over his chest, leaned against the shelf. “but even for you, this is far too involved.”

kokichi felt a smirk crawl across his face before he looked over at the taller man, scoffing. “who knows, maybe i’m the thrilled at the idea those jackasses will give more free handouts if their son is happy.”

“that’s clearly a lie,” komaeda sighs, disappointed, following a chuckle afterward. “there’s a million different reasons to bring a child into this world, and intentionally loving them is definitely not one of the saihara’s reasons.”

kokichi subtly takes in the others words, tongue swiping across the inside of his cheek quickly as he leans against the meeting table a few feet across from him.

”well, that part was the most obvious..sure, maybe they were proud for once about his grades and felt extra generous and i’m looking too much into this.”

“perhaps…” komaeda tilts his head. “but you figured out something damning..didn’t you?”

“let’s just say shuichi is a terrible liar.”

“oh?”

kokichi scoffs lowly, head looking to the ground as he brought a hand up to his face, swiping over his eye’s temporarily before looking back up. a thoughtful expression. “you never were the type to care much about monetary value in alliances..so i doubt there’s something else.”

kokichi lowered his tone. “i’m not exactly figuring out everything i can about shuichi just out of boredom..no, he’s definitely different.”

the light casted through the window catching onto komaeda’s figure as he shifted his position, head pressed slightly to the shelf as he slowly smiled at the other. “obsession?”

perhaps the light casted onto kokichi in the same context, but not the same sense. his expression still so very thoughtful yet something underlying it. “i wouldn’t be caught dead feeling such a way to anyone. but, he certainly caught my attention given time.

“anyways…whatever you were saying about his parents.” komaeda hummed, pushing himself away from the shelf to make his exit, kokichi making a glance to the window.

“i’ll have to put whatever feelings i have for my beloved on hold.”

the other man turned back, hand wrapped the door handle. “and why is that?”

“his parents aren’t exactly the ‘love for all’ type of people.”

“ah..”

“but..I still get what i want typically.” he chuckles dryly, looking back at the other. “i just wish he wasn’t under their cruel eye all the time.”

“well..i’m sure you’ll find the hope for your feelings soon enough.” komaeda gives a simple smile, kokichi not responding and only looking back at the window, so bored. with a soft open and shut of the door, the room filled with deafening silence. the leader stuck in his mind as he looked back at the door.

he wasn’t denying his heart, yet he didn’t want to blindly accept that. the detective surely would die before he figured him out. he declared that like a knights dying loyalty to their ruler he barely scraped under the surface of the leader.

and yet, here he was with the reality of the other boy’s own situation. his infatuation with wanting to crave the truth of kokichi’s being, his own to want even so as much as the other. whatever truth rested beyond someone so gentle yet distant.

it was all so conflicting. he wouldn’t give up easily though. shuichi was different, that’s the truth. how badly for once he wanted to crave about the truth, find whatever really drew him in about the detective. and so passionately nonetheless.

“you know, they used to hire models here.” shuichi hummed thoughtfully, keenly looking around the store they were in. rantaro who caught up to them, taking a glance up from the shirts he was looking around at.

“well, that’s hollister for you..you see that magazine article with channing tatum as a kid?” he inquires, picking a pair of shorts to look at.

“the lifeguard pictures?” shuichi heistates, something coming over his thoughts before he quickly smothered it away, clearing his throat. “they uh..sure had some business sale promotions in america..”

“hey, it wouldn’t even be a lie to find that guy attractive,” kaito interrupts, crossing his arms and leaning on a clothing rack beside one of the mannequins. “every man should aspire to achieve the same masculinity as someone like channing tatum.”

“uh huh..” rantaro hums.

“honest! i’m sure he’d be just as much of a sex symbol if he was a woman, but there’s something about a chiselled man that’s very aspiring.”

“you..really don’t think when talking, huh?”

kaede chuckled awkwardly, switching arms with her shopping bags. “uh, maybe we should change the subject— shuichi, you want to look around?”

he put a hand up politely. “i’m alright, this..isn’t exactly my theme of store anyhow..”

“yeah, he probably shops at Louis Vuitton.” kaito jokes, shuichi’s clearing his throat. “i’m sure i can find a place.”

“I can come with you if you want.” kaede offers, the detective smiling fondly. “alright then..is okay if—?”

“yeah, yeah, you guys go have fun— we’ll all catch up.” kaito interrupts encouragingly, kaede already nodding and moving her way out of the store with shuichi, and out into the mall, taking a stroll along whatever they could find.

the pianist making points of whatever was nearby or starting conversation he was well engaged in before they found themselves before a rather nice store. a rather dark way of presentation with the music and colours of the walls inside but put together options nonetheless.

“shuichi..this..”

“hm?” he turns his head to her curiously, a half stressed look across kaede’s face.

“oh, uh— nothing, it’s nothing, uhm— you definitely come across as the guy who likes formal casual and all.” she begins, suffering over her words defensively, shuichi catching on and feeling a bit awkward. “i’m sure they have other options around—“

“no, no! it’s just..” she takes another look as they both slowly head in, speaking again. “this..is a pretty pricey place.”

shuichi rubs the back of his neck, thinking next carefully about his words. “it’s sort of expected by my parents i wear good quality clothes..and i happened to need some and well, i don’t think they’d take it lightly if the charge on my card had something…low in price? i’m sorry, it probably sounds completely ridiculous—“

she sighs in relief, letting out a chuckle after. “hey, don’t worry about it all— I mean, this is the most common school to find rich kids attending.” she assures, nudging at him slightly. “you don’t gotta be so humble about it.”

“it just a topic i’d rather not speak on..” he chuckles, self consciously as he takes another look around hesitantly.

“it’s your money, take a shopping spree if you want.”

“well..alright then, I guess i’ll start browsing.” he clears his throat gently, taking a look amongst the shelves, the racks. taking a specific look at some of the sweaters that lay neatly in hangers.

“sorry if i came off as super nervous and all, i’m just not really used to being around these sorts of stores.” kaede chuckles. “are family has good money, don’t get me wrong but it’s nothing extreme.”

he nods. “oh, of course— and don’t worry about it, i see what you mean. your parents are both composers, right?”

“it’s a family thing, like anyone else at school I guess,” she starts, taking her own curiously look at the shelves nearby. “though I’m hoping to be a music teacher.”

“ah, really? that’s a nice career to shoot for.” he turns his head, replying enthusiastically. kaede quickly looking away from the price tag she saw before returning to look at the detective. “for elementary level i’m thinking, and then eventually try travelling around, ya know?”

“it’s a nice dream, kaede, you definitely have what it takes to do what you’re passionate about.”

she smiles, leaning by one of the racks as he picked out a sweater and shirt. “what about you?”

“I guess i’ll be working at my uncle’s agency for some time…perhaps take over when he retires?”

“is that what you want or what your parents want?”

he pauses momentarily to take in the question, looking down at the assortment of clothes awkwardly as silence filled the air. “I uhm..”

“you don’t have to answer that if you don’t want to.”

“I guess I..never thought about what i really wanted that much?”

“well what do you wanna do?” she perks up. “if your parents weren’t in the picture, had no say in your future— what do you want?”

he thought even more, tried to think of the many possibilities he could hone making his own future and writing it out. like a small child reading about fantasies in books and watching on old television. nothing. he don’t really ever know, because thats what was expected. if he wasn’t a detective, what would he do? that was far too embarrassing and shameful to share though.

shuichi cleared his throat and moved to the next shelf beside her, looking among the options of pants. “I’m sure i’d find something.”

“hmm, i’m sure you will. you’re really smart, shuichi.”

“i appreciate that, really.”

“just don’t let it get to your head that your parents have any control over you, yeah? you’ve got what it takes to do whatever you want.” she encourages, crossing her arms over his chest with a nod. “plus, you still have all the time in the world to be a teenager, live a little with us.”

he holds the folded pair of pants with his sweater and shirt picked out, looking at the pianist. “hm?”

“we’re all classmates for a reason, and outings like these are good..I mean— school is good yeah, ofcourse.” she interrupts herself with clarification before continuing on with her encouraging attitude. “but having fun, enjoying life or your favourite meal with your friends..i think that’s the best part of life.”

he considered her words further, took them in gracefully with the soft chatter of the others in the store and the faint scent of smokewood and water around the store giving a comfortable sense of self for the two. he slowly nods in understanding. “right.”

taking his seat quickly in the spinner chair to his desk, he pulls himself in. no more thoughts running through his head as he shoved the flash drive in the side of his laptop, letting the file download as he watched the blue bar fill all the way, patiently as he could with his foot tapping the floor.

the student on the other side of the dorm in his bed mindlessly flipping through a scandalous magazine he held above his head in his hands. he takes a look over at his roommate. “can’t believe you’re stupid enough to go through with this.”

“it’s none of your business, ryosuke, is it?” the other male clapped back with a bite, tapping across the keyboard of his laptop from where his eyes were glued. the other male student taking one last long look at his page before tossing it to the end of his bed with a sigh, sitting up to stretch his back.

“so much for getting a good rub in.”

“you’re disgusting.”

“you’re the one pulling this stalker crap on some guy you barely know.” he says accusingly to his roommate, leaning against his headboard with a firm look. “not my business whatever you’re into, but you could atleast not do this on my free time.”

“they invented bathrooms for a reason, you pervert.” he low-key replied, rather snarky as he clicked the play button upon the file that fully downloaded on his laptop. like a jackpot he just won, he leaned back in his chair as he watched the video play.

“right, but i’m the crazy one.”

“like I said, i just need to get it across I always get what i want.” he replied annoyingly, his roommate finally letting curiosity take him over as he shoved himself out of his bed to walk over.

he props a hand behind the chair, leaning over his shoulder to watch the video that played in the dim light of the room, his expression slowly widening.

“shit..so that’s what saihara does in his free time?” he says quietly, almost letting out a laugh. “galloping in the rain like a faggot?”

“i just need to show this video to a certain mother and father…perhaps slowly get what i want with the process of elimination.”

“this is hella extreme, dude, you sure?”

“yeah. I just really hate that damn supreme leader..hate arrogant bastards like him..” he lets out a sigh as he pauses the video. “shuichi needs someone who will actually give him the love he deserves.”

“you’re sounding like a real sicko, kenji.”

“whatever..” he brings his gaze up to his roommate, thoughtfully. “you wouldn’t get it..this is my true love and i need to show for it.”

“whatever, but don’t let me get involved in this.”

“soo..I take it mister detective had a good time at the outing, nyeh..” himiko asked rather tiredly, slumped on the common area couch next to angie, who was gently running her fingers through the shorter girls crimson hair.

kaede, humming thoughtfully went through the groceries on the counter with kirumi to sort and put them away. “it always makes me feel happy to see everyone included— and, yeah, he seemed to have a good time— ah, you did, right—?” she asked reassuringly to shuichi, who stepped in to help with the groceries. he nodded quickly. “I did, yes— thank you so much again, really..”

“it’s no problem at all, kay? we’re your classmates, remember that.”

“ofcourse, and if you wish to join for dinner, i’ll be preparing curry.” kirumi adds in with a comforting smile. shuichi considers her words as he watched them move around while he shut the refrigerator after placing away a carton of milk.

he had heard of the many meals kirumi had prepared, all effortless and perfect to the top in every culinary aspect, his stomach growling at the thought.

“I’ll consider..thank you.”

kaede nudged his shoulder gently with a teasing smile. “hey c’mon, drop the formality.”

he rubbed at his shoulder and smiled after her, chuckling afterwards. “sorry..”

“what the hell are you lowly peasants giggling about?”

shuichi turned his head around, seeing kokichi make himself present as he entered the room with a telling expression. everyone else looking his way just to keep talking or laugh around.

“brother, not this guy..”

“thought you were off doing president shit.”

“yeah, well, even I get bored of leading sometimes.”

“is that a lie?” shuichi asks as he folds the empty paper bags, preparing to put them in recycling as kokichi leans against the wall near him. “it totally is, I love being the boss of people— jeez, atleast someone here gets me.” he scoffs jokingly with arms folded across his chest.

“ah, how was the meeting anyhow?”

“it was so and so, we did suuuper crappy this year so we can’t have anymore events..” he sighed, placing a palm flat across his chest with a disappointed look, glancing at the pianist. “you can blame our dear miss akamatsu for scaring everyone off with her mediocre piano skills.”

quick to retort, she furrows her brows and throws a folded paper bag his way, kokichi laughing and quickly dodging to watch it fall, shuichi shaking his head. “i take it that’s also a lie.”

“bingo again,” he exclaims, grabbing the bag and tossing it in the recycling bin. “kaede actually was one the reasons we did well.”

“that’s a relief to hear..you need to stop being mean like that.” kaede huffs with a sigh of relief.

“god forbid i be truthful and boring.” he chuckles, shuichi watching along the conversation fondly before speaking again. “ah, kokichi—“ the leader attention almost immediately turning to shuichi as he carefully thought on his next words.

“it’s in the room but uh, I had something to give you.”

kokichi raised his expression. “in the seclusion of our room? how scandalous of you, shumai.”

“please don’t word it like that..wait, shumai?” he pauses thinking over his thoughts at the words of the other, kokichi casually shrugging and starting his walk out. “c’mon, i wanna see what you got me.”

“wait— wait what do you mean by shu—“ he looks back a few times at the kitchen before kaede chuckles and gives a thumbs up. “meet us down for dinner later.”

“right— ah, hey, kokichi wait up!” he calls out to the leader, catching up his pace out of the common area.

they had finally found themselves back to the dorm room floor, door opening as they both made their way in, kokichi huffing. “alright so what’s the big deal, you get me a weapon for my missions or something?” he sits himself on his bed, shuichi giving a questioning look over his shoulder as he searches through a shopping bag by the foot of his own bed. kokichi putting his hands up defensively. “i’m not that sorta criminal.”

“it’s nothing..no, no it’s nothing like that.” he shakes his head finally grabbing the medium sized box from the shopping bag and carefully handing it to the leader before sitting across from him on the edge of his bed.

kokichi examines the box with a curious look. “what’s this about? don’t tell me you planted a bomb in here.”

“enough,” he sighs, wiping a plan across his pant leg. “there was a store that seemed like your type of place to enjoy being at and i thought i’d get you something.”

“my birthday isn’t until december.” he begins opening the box.

“june.”

“mm?”

“the twenty-first of june, that was another lie.”

he raised his expression slightly, taking in the softly formed proud look on shuichi’s face before tossing the top of the box aside to pull out the contents. super simple, but a rather captivating little gift as he lifted it.

a keychain set all put together. consisting of a a pair of dice and a small vintage clown doll, a checkered dog tag hanging aside it. he thought about it as he looked at the fond little gift, a smile creeping across his lips before he looked back at the detective.

“you spend your big kid money on this lil ol’ thing for me?”

“they had a setup where you could make your own keychain and all sorts of things to add to it,” he starts, a hand moving to the back of his neck before glancing aside then back at him. “I had a feeling you would like those little characters..there’s an inscribed message behind the dog tag as well.”

“pssh, what a waste of time to do all of this for someone who’s supposed to be your enemy, huh?” he turns the dog tags over in his fingers, reading the message carved imprint into the metal. a message he remembered very fondly a lot, time and time again. in old books or in inspiring movies of hero’s and young souls. ‘carpe diem.’

“you made life sound so full of passion to hone and life for, how you told it yourself— write your own destiny and do what you want.” he leans back slightly on his hands. “i knew that saying was definitely one you would live by.”

and sure as day, the detective was right. without mentioning it once, without mentioning anything about the keychain once, all guessed perfectly and low and behold lay in the flat of his palm as a gesture of friendship? maybe understanding?

even kokichi had to give credit where it was due that he felt a sense of fondness for shuichi. he returned a smile to the other.

“well..i guess you’re not so bad at your skills, detective or not.” he starts, setting the keychain back in the box with a sigh as he sets it aside on his bed. “now i feel ashamed i didn’t get you something, look how hurt you made me, saihara.” he huffed out dramatically.

“to be fair, i got you that without expecting anything in return.” he catches on quickly, continuing on. “and..go back to what you said earlier.”

“hmm?” he tilts his head.

“what did you mean by shumai? where did that come from?”

kokichi shrugged rather casually, going on in conversing. “suppose i’m testing how comfortable i feel about us getting closer. familiarity with nicknames and all of that.”

“ah..you’re serious?”

“i’m considering it, don’t get your hopes up just because you gifted me a super childish keychain.”

shuichi snickers gently. “don’t worry, i’m well aware..just know i was serious about putting aside our differences.”

“i appreciate the dedication.” kokichi acknowledges with a shrug, hesitating on his next word uncharacteristically as he swiped his tongue across the inside of his cheek, trying to play it off casually. “and..I suppose we don’t exactly have that much time to spend together one on one..maybe i’ll join you in your next crusade with the rest of the class?”

“really?” he seems to perk up in curiosity slightly. “you..don’t really seem to like being around the rest of the class though.”

“they’re fine or whatever, but i keep distance when i know it’s best.” he smiles. “buuut you’re..decently not boring to be around.”

“you’d make that exception for me?”

“maybe.” kokichi said low and soft, letting a smirk dance across his lips. not a usual teasing one but much more meaningful. something strange shuichi wouldn’t expect to see, but nonetheless still felt nice to see him. “just maybe, shuichi..”

and that awful twisting feeling had erupted from deep within this stomach, crawling up to grab at his heart and keep it in a cruel twist. his breath leaving for a minute that made him feel at a loss for blood and words, utterly sick at himself.

god, he actually did feel that way for him, he did.

he was dammed. he was dammed and stuck, however he would move he had no idea. surely there could have been room to deny it? but no prevail, no room whatsoever. it was the hard and terrible truth that stood before him in a devilish manner sat across from him.

that feeling in his stomach brewed further, and further. tipping over as he slowly furrowed his expression, moving to cover his mouth with the back of his fist. nails digging into his plan as he began to stand, kokichi watching.

“you alright?”

“I..I ah— excuse me..” he said weakly as he made his leave out of the dorm, that feeling continued to brew terribly as kokichi quickly stood to his feet suspiciously, attempting to go after him before the door shut behind him, leaving confusion across the leaders face.

that strange change in demeanour had caused all the more speculation for the leader. why he had suddenly looked so sickly in a few moments of a second, a look over to that box that was handed his way and to that door.

many things had added up one way or another, but the leader was serious as well in a sense of wanting to trust shuichi. he thought back to those words with komaeda that left his own heart in a twist of conflict upon what the truth very much could, and have been. what the truth is.

so many things he wanted to reach out for in his own way to change, get across to shuichi and ask him. no, he couldn’t have gotten sick suddenly because…it couldn’t be.

so many unanswered questions. nonetheless, he swallowed his pride and went after him.

Chapter 9: 9.

Chapter Text

belch.

emptying out all the internal contents of his stomach, weakly kneeled into the times of the bathroom over the porcelain bowl was one of the times like at home he felt truly regretful of his thoughts.

he had never known the weight of feelings, much less, leading to hurling out everything over the very thought of knowing what you felt. this was a nightmare, cruelty in its purest form presenting. tears profiling in his eyes as he coughed and spewed, arms curling around his stomach for dear life as he waited patiently, waited desperately for it to end.

the silence had fallen over eventually, leaving his head cloudy without many thoughts, dazing in and out of reality mindlessly with his cheek rested against the seat.

kokichi had continued he quick walk after, how strange he felt for showing a level of care but nonetheless didn’t question it further. atleast until someone stopped him, miu who entered the hall and made her appearance known to usher him away.

“god dammit there you are— kirumi ain’t serving dinner unless everyone is at the table so hurry, i’m starving.”

“you’re always hungry, fatass.” he moved past her just for her to insistingly grab at his arm.

“dude, i am so serious right now i haven’t eaten since lunch so hurry up.”

“what did i just— i need to grab shuichi—“

“well tell his ass to hurry up, because i can’t wait any longer.” she replies quickly with irritation and impatience, groaning as she walks away down the hall, kokichi looking as miu leaves just to make his own look back at the door that stood a few feet away from him.

he wanted to keep walking, see what the hell was happening with the detective and why he acted off all of the sudden, yet if he did so, miu would just come back complaining and bitching, which he really found annoying.

temporarily conflicted but training himself enough, he lets out a sigh, forgetting whatever miu wanted to complain about to finish his walk. he tried his luck carefully at the doorknob. locked, to no surprise. he brought a curled finger up to knock.

“shuichi?”

no response.

he tried again more forcefully with no response again, only a faint, low groan from inside you could only hear if you listened carefully enough. taking account of the type of doorknob was in place, he sighed as he grabbed a spare bobby pin from his pocket, starting his tweaking to unlock the knob.

he fiddled around with it for some time before eventually unlocking it, taking a step inside. low and behold, the edge the curled sickly over the porcelain bowl. shutting the door behind them, he carefully moves down to his knees beside him.

“jesus— maybe don’t lock the door next time, idiot, you might’ve looked yourself or something.” he attempted to joke, despite taking in the condition of the other.

he moved his fingers through the others hair, pushing his bangs back carefully away from his face as he kept his gaze away from the leader. a sickly growl from the pit of his throat escaping. the skepticism only growing more with that lace of concern equally.

“what’s the deal with this?” he asks carefully yet firmly, shuichi slowly lifting his face to cover at his mouth again steadily. kokichi keeping his bangs out of his place gently as he watched his expression. “don’t push yourself or whatever.”

he finally, yet shakily, brought the cupped hand down from his mouth, kokichi continuing to stare contently as he began talking.

“It’s..nothing, I just..think i christ to eat a proper meal, that’s all..”

“you went on an entire mall trip and don’t think to get something at the food court?” a believable enough of an excuse, but something told his gut the detective was lying.

“they didn’t have many enjoyable seeming options..that’s..all..” he weakly replied.

“uh huh..well, if that’s your truth, i guess we’ll go with it for now.” kokichi answered, moving his fingers away that held his hair.

“let’s go and get you some real food then—“ though he was cut off as shuichi was being helped up, he who shook his head.

“not..i’m not hungry—“

“okay, whatever— atleast get something in your mouth.” he dismisses as he finishes helping him up properly as they made their way out of bathroom.

they had found their way safely to the bottom door of the common area, making their seats known as plates were handed around, utensils passed with. shuichi had gained a lot bit of himself and brought back to person as he inhaled the intoxicating aromas from kirumi’s cooking.

jasmine rice with chilli curry salmon presented nicely before him. on a normal day, he would be curious to try it out, but his stomach said otherwise, still showing an obvious still there ache.

nonetheless, he was able to carry on and okay it off to his best ability, attempting to prod and pick at the dish as everyone else at table conversed happily, kokichi prodding at his own dish with a sigh. “it’s alright..you couldn’t have cooked with pork though?”

“i’m terribly sorry, kokichi, but the only substitutes i had prepared was a vegetarian variant and one with chicken.” kirumi hummed apologetically.

“oh come on, everyone here knows pork is my favourite thing in the whole world— except for the feet on those things, that’s freaky.” he sighs, still picking up his fork and devouring down his meal from where he sat.

he’d still have a checkup of a glance back and over to the detective time again, keeping note of his expressions as he somehow drifted away yet also kept up with the table conversation.

by the time dinner was over, shuichi hadn’t exactly touch his meal much, only pushing the dish around exceptionally in order until the salmon was pressed into itself enough to look eaten. he attempted to lift his plate as a few of the others left, only for kirumi to offer a hand.

“you can leave the tidying up to me.”

“ah, but i—“

“don’t worry about it, i prefer handling things anyhow.” kirumi assured with a smile, shuichi silently and uncomfortably nodding as she cleaned his dishes. feeling a bit ashamed he barely touched the meal so nicely put together, but the other part of him wanted to relax himself, forget the ache. he wanted to return to the room, but of course, yet oh so weirdly caring in a sense, kokichi played himself off into shuichi’s space.

“suddenly i feel bored down here, I toooootally need to catch up on my well deserved rest.”

“ah, i was heading back too..”

“well, guess we’ll both be hitting the mattress tonight.” he tossed a hand dismissively over his shoulder at kaede nearby. “well, have a good night, losers— terrific performance again, kaede.”

and eventually, made their way back up to the room. the door was open and shut just as that and the detective was lucky enough to be in his pajamas already, too tired to want to change. but he certainly wouldn’t be heading to bed without the leaders questions.

“so what was that all about?” he carefully yet firmly asked the detective, slipping in and out of consciousness who looked back at him with a slumped over posture.

“I..didn’t have a good appetite going for me..i’m sor—“

“before that.”

he thought for a moment despite that still ache of his internals, pondering in despite the simple truth of saying it. all the times it was easy to be truthful, and the devil had roots in him.

keeping his grounded, refusing to spit the venom of his true nature. how he was foolish to not know so earlier on, but careful enough to bite his tongue, knowing the hardships of how horrified he was of himself, horrified of the cruelty from his parents.

“it’s like I explained..I just felt sick all of the sudden because of it.”

“well that’s definitely a lie.” kokichi tilts his head at the slightest. “i can’t help but feel you had..some connective feelings about giving me the keychain—“

“it’s nothing, i swear, i promise, i just—“ he pauses in his voice as he feels himself grow conflicted, biting back on his tongue as he lets out a slow sigh. “my mood has been off the second half of the day I suppose, and I apologise..”

“uh huh..” he leans back on his bed. “well..i guess you outta head to sleep then, im sure the others have more stuff planned tomorrow.”

“sundays are typically slow though.”

“yeah, if you’re getting ready to go to church,” kokichi snorts disrespectfully, adjusting him to get comfortable back in his bed, shuichi watching. “if you say so..does the school have anything else planned or going on?” he inquired quietly, laying on his side to face the other from across the room. kokichi shrugging. “probably just classes after classes..also including your little detective side work and still figuring me out.”

“ah, right, right.” he clears his throat. “but you were serious about.. well, being seen around the others more..seen with me? hanging out?”

he turns his head on his pillow from facing his ceiling. “only if you’re serious about figuring me out.”

he’s hesitated, but still nods along. “of course.”

kokichi nodded with the confirmation, deciding to prod a little around, find something out about his demeanour. “and if you’re not gonna be around that kenji guy forever.”

he thought back to the blonde boy, thinking in his thoughts about their times together, every interaction, every way they talked to each other and his fondness for the water.

and something seemed to lie beyond a facade of some kind. dare he said the familiarity between a certain pairing was in the air. he hums. “i still don’t fully understand why he was so quiet after the scholar event.”

“who gives a shit about him? you can’t trust people like him, he only acts like a good guy to get peoples attention.”

shuichi looks back over, unamused. “have you ever had a proper conversation with him? that’s quite an opinion.”

“believe me, i know a liar when i see one.”

“you two would be good friends then.”

“i’m wounded you would compare me to some dumbass who surfs in his free time..” he scoffs lowly. “and if you dare think we’re the same people, you’re not as smart as i thought.”

“this feels passive aggressive all of the sudden.” shuichi sighs softly. “there’s..definitely some strange aspects about him as a person, but i like to know the truth to everything—“

“because the truth always prevails and yada yada.”

he sits up, almost glaring at the other. “what is your problem with bad mouthing people who aren’t here to defend themselves?”

he leans back on his elbows, cocking a competitive look over at the detective. “i don’t have a problem, but if i were you, I’d be smart enough to point out a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

“you can’t..” shuichi sighed, hand momentarily rubbing over his face. “this is why you have negative opinions about you, kokichi, you can’t just say stuff like that without expecting lashback.

“believe me, i’m aware of the ‘consequences’ but i just couldn’t give a damn.” he shrugs off.

he wasn’t exactly sure why and how the air had changed suddenly with the tension, yet shuichi testing it. “and what if I made the assumption you were a terrible person by what others say about you and your family? some violent craved criminal who’s gonna find himself in jail after school..”

“maybe I am, maybe i’m not— i’d you deny rumours, people will only believe them more. might as well embrace them.”

“so that’s it, you just let people have a bad view on you and don’t do anything about it?”

“now you’re getting it.” he shrugs. “i am a liar after all, i breathe like I lie.”

“but you’re not actually a terrible person.”

“oh brother..just because i have you a chance to ‘understand’ me doesn’t mean you suddenly get the idea you could change me.”

“no— no, it’s not like that at all—“

“what if i wanted to change a few things about you?” he cocks his head as he sits up on his bed. “what would the upcoming great boy detective be like if he actually had decent confidence and didn’t believe such easy facades by others?”

“enough, alright?” he cuts off the other with a shake of the head.

“come on, be serious for a few seconds.”

“i’m going to head to sleep now..”

“oh sure,” kokichi lowly drawls as shuichi shifted his position to make his back face kokichi. the leader scoffing. “who knows, maybe he’ll get back into dragging you around soon.”

to say the least, he attempted to sleep the awkward yet heated air of the scene as he screwed his eyes shut slightly irritated. sure enough, yes, there were some things that were not explained and he still had much to figure out, and he would. but he had to balance the things already on his plate.

first and foremost, he had fallen for kokichi ouma and that was the last thing he needed. because kokichi was a cocky bastard but irresistible in his own charm, something about him that the detective felt like a craving for.

and the second of all issue, he was a boy. shuichi couldn’t bare to be more horrified with himself as he tried not to feel sick again in his sleep.

the day was heatful, beating down horribly more than typically. one of those days in school where your hands stuck to the cool desks with sweat prints, uniforms sticking uncomfortably, no matter how much water you consumed or begged to sit by the window.

shuichi was grateful enough to have made the decision to ditch the uniform vest at his dorm, much like the universal decision of the many other students of the school. halfway through the week and suddenly things had felt..decent.

he had steady cases to solve with his uncle, without much trouble happening at home with his parents. grades staying above per usual and he needn’t feel the cruelty or temporary fear of being in the presence of the man and woman he resembled.

he enjoyed the company of his classmates, finding himself content with getting through studying at night or finishing new books, turning in homework. even as back as sunday, he felt the presence of kenji again.

an apology had came from from the boy, sincerity in a form he appreciated to hear as they had now kept their spots with their desks close by. mingling for a class project. all of this, and he still had the meal he couldn’t quite finish on his plate, the subject that was kokichi ouma. so horrible he felt to think back to him, but in a sense, felt a nice rush thinking about the other.

every minuscule detail. how his eyes squinted with that devilish smirk he proudly had tattooed across his face or the way the dents from his bones moved under his skin with his muscle led from every stretch he took. he was horrible.

“you gonna get anymore piercings?” kenji questioned.

“i haven’t considered it..though i’m not sure any would fit me aside from just the basic small studs.” he replied, looking up from his notes temporarily. kenji nodding. “fair enough— i know this one chick i used to surf with over summer had all sorts of piercings, cool as hell to be around though.”

“a friend?”

“ex girlfriend,” kenji said simply, moving on as he turned the page of his textbook. “we’re just friends now.”

“i see.. do you just surf around the summertime?”

“yeah, or if i know there’s a day i can catch good waves,” he waves a hand after writing down some more notes, taking a break to cross his arms on the desk. “either that or all day on the boat.”

“it’s sounds relaxing either way.”

“right?” he chuckles softly. “you should totally join me and the other sometime— come by the water and what not.”

“well..i suppose it is getting hotter outside by the day..” he considered, kenji seemed thrilled. “awesome— hey, maybe i can get you on aboard and teach you some stuff, we could do it together and what not.”

“i have doubts about that— i’m not one for sports.” shuichi chuckled, kenji shrugging. “i mean hey, either way a day on the beach is nice— can do it more in the summer too with classes out.”

“I suppose..my class had a bunch of outing plans with the beach involved.” shuichi podnered the thought more as he fiddled with the end of the page he was on. “maybe we could merge it?”

“like me and you guys? hell yeah, i’d be down.” kenji starts with a cool expression, only to click his tongue after. “doubt me class prez would be there anyway..”

“and you’re still on about him..”

“alright, alright—!” he was quick to shoot his hands up defensively. “you explicitly stated you hate bad mouthing, so i shall respect your wishes, detective, and i’m sorry— honest.”

shuichi was taken back, but nonetheless, went on and furrowed his brows in thought. “well..whatever problems you both seem to have with each other, I guess it really isn’t my business.”

kenji seemed intrigued by the others words, slowly asking out. “he has a problem with me? what for?”

“i should have said anything,” he sighs. “let’s finish this project— and, again, i’ll consider your invitation out.”

“right..”kenji slowly nods, leaning back in his chair as he inspected the defective carefully, taking in his features and steadiness with the project.

“maybe then, this would only be a backup plan. perhaps i have a good way with moving this along..” kenji mumbled to himself as he held the elongated board under his arm, his view solid and out beyond to the waves of blue in front of him. waves that crashed and swirled in white across the sand that never ended behind the horizon, the sun going down in a beautiful way.

“the hell are you on about.” a pierced girl in a bikini beaked next to her own board called out, kenji smirking suddenly to catch himself out of his thoughts in a smile. “it’s nothing— sorry.”

“you gotta cut your creepy tendencies out or i outta leave.” his other friend commented, slapping his gained arm playfully as he ran to the water with his board, kenji scoffing and going after, laying across his board and paddling into the water with the pierced girl, his once close partner nearby

the careful view of many other pedestrians across the beach and yet he had enough attention on his one calling destiny that was the water. the salt that curled in his hair and felt so crisp around his skin, making him feel alive. right where he belonged.

“so spill it.” the girl spat out, pushing her wet hair back as she sat up on her board. “what’s this whole thing about a drive buying?”

“you didn’t say nothing yet?” the other boy asks, kenji shaking his head.

“I have a little dirt as backup of my plan to get who i want doesn’t really..pan out, i guess— i need to be careful.”

the girl gave a questioning look, leaned back on her hands on the board. “you got a crush on someone? god, that’s a pity for you.”

he pushed his hair back and shook it around after, letting it curl damp as he continued talking. a hand up in the air to block the sunset that beamed in his face boldly.

“i’m serious.. granted, i overreacted a bit when i stopped talking to him..but i really do like this guy.”

“I call bullshit.”

he splashed a wave of water to the other guy. “i’m serious.” kenji said firmly. “i just really appreciate the time we’ve spent together..and i mean you haven’t seen this guy, he just..has this thing about him.”

he went on, almost dreamingly and purely. “something so captivating about him from the way he speaks, how smart and forward he is..man, but he really is so pretty too..i can’t help myself.”

“dude, seriously, i think you got some problems.” the other boy mocked, the girl by him chuckling with a strike before clearing her throat. he caught her gaze as she spoke. “but seriously, you’d threaten something like that against him or kokichi just because of some jealousy?”

“some people take the feelings of others for granted in this world, unfortunately. and kokichi happens to have his attention a little more than i can handle..just to be a bastard.”

“so what, threaten to out this guy so you two can have a little happy ending?”

“ouma’s been out, dumbass.”

“well i can’t say too much because it would ruin the surprise, wouldn’t it?” he scoffs. “besides, whenever i let the video get out or even a word of it, everyone would devour it and spew lies about it around so carelessly.” kenji went on.

“sick. i told ya, man. fucking sick.” the boy attempted to say seriously before eventually letting out a dry chuckle.

“enough of that now— i’ll beat you pussies to the first wave.” the girl beside him called out, beginning to quickly paddle ahead; kenji and the other boy soon following after.

tangling his fingers through his somehow still damp hair, kenji sighed to himself with a form of content. he made his way up the stairs to the seventh floor to his room, where he hoped to be able to finally pass out and let his dreams consume him, just to have a certain familiar figure pass him by the fifth floor.

kokichi, a few inches below him as he seemed to make his way out of his own room. maybe off to grab a drink from the common area given the loose pajamas he was already fitted in, door shutting behind him.

despite whatever thoughts he had earlier about wanting to get back to his dorm had been scrapped as he moved closer, stopping the leader in his footsteps.

seeming to not be fazed, yet still a bit annoyed, he roadies his brows boringly to the blonde.

“can i help you?”

“what’s your relationship with saihara?” he asked rather bluntly. kokichi furrowing his brows rather quickly as he took a look beside him, stepping away further from the door to start walking. kenji wasn’t having it, following behind with a click of his tongue.

“hey, i asked you a question.”

“why would I involve myself in the affairs of some wannabe detective? he’s just my roommate.” he shrugged off casually, stopping by the stairs as kenji went on cooly.

“it just seems weird..your family has a close connection the last i heard.”

“just because my old man wants a union-ship with dirty cops, doesn’t mean i wasn’t get my hands on them or whatever they have to offer.” kokichi explained, he surely didn’t mean much of the words he said, only swishing to push away the other boy, who still seemed to want to engage in the conversation.

the unseeming facade coming off of him was something kokichi knew to keep track of, from one liar to another finding facades and seeing through.

“strange,” kenji begins lowly, sighing with a hand quickly over his face to wipe it. “because you seem to certainly take interest in him, and it wouldn’t be stupid to assume he certainly likes being around you too.”

“i like leading the guy on, i’m a terrible person— everyone at this damn school knows that.” kokichi will play this game all day. he waits, fishing carefully for the reaction to come from the other as kenji face subtly shifts.

“I had a feeling.”

no, he didn’t. what a fool.

“as far as i’m aware, you should stay away from shuichi. some people out there really like him as a person,” tilts his head against the wall by the stairwell, stern face captured in the dim night lighting of the hall. “would treat him how he deserves it.”

“what the hell are you wasting my time blabbering about?”

almost as if testing the waters but still confident as much, kenji tilts his head forward at the other, intimidation written all over rather clear as day. manipulation, almost.

“I happen to really be invested in him, and I don’t need to see him get treated poorly by someone like you.” venom dripping from his tongue at the indication from the end of his words.

kokichi not moving his expression as he took in the audacity of the other, so graciously leading out a trail of annoyance and delusion. words and tone that didn’t suit the face of someone so bright looking, a soft yet well shaped face of calm eyes and a sharp smile. kokichi seemed to almost recognise what he was doing.

“so I’m serious..I want it to be set in stone that i’ll show what sort of care he deserves.”

“how pathetic..” the leader snickered, catching his breath in a chuckle. “jesus— you’re gonna make me tooootally die of second hand embarrassment” he seems to play on dramatically. until he brought his gaze to the other. “i wouldn’t be caught dead threatening others for something a stupid as looking at someone I wanted.”

“i don’t expect someone like you to understand what love is,” kenji stated, unapologetically cold as he went on. “you’ll die alone before you ever truly find someone to understand your being and who you are, take in everything you are and love with their body.”

kokichi remained unfazed, though still completely understanding exactly what game this guy was playing. maybe in a normal circumstance, he’d play this off as a joke even more, ridicule them before leaving.

he remained completely stoic though, took in the way this guy talked about romance, his delusion of how he viewed the detective. something churning in his chest uncomfortably.

“and don’t try to do much about it.” kenji finally ended, that cold, unmoving expression that could pierce others returning naturally to a soft smile, so genuine it pissed him off. he headed up the staircase. kokichi glared up at the other before he turned around again, calling out lowly.

“after all, you should remember who everyone will believe over you.” and with a few more steps, the blonde left his view and up the stairs, footsteps echoing in the halls.

that uncomfortable feeling seemed to keep on churning in his chest, his thoughts recalling back to shuichi, the mere way he spoke of him in comparison to the many expressions the detective held and the way he spoke on their occasions together.

ofcourse, kokichi was smart enough to understand anybody would believe the falsehood of kindness over a straight out liar any day, he was born a liar. but he knew well enough given time, shuichi could surely figure him out too, he had to.

all of this as a position of feigning apathy but that feeling in his chest buried deep with roots. kenji was planning something, and he was going to figure it out.

“— a speaker, party lights..uh, yup! that’s all on the list!” an enthusiastic girl with pigtails read off a list from inside the van, legs kicking back and forth from the edge she was sat on. the other masked individuals in their positions.

setting up on the roof to the break in, kokichi adjusting his wire and such to make sure the mission went well. the girl hummed to herself before looking at the leader.

“if we just needed to fetch party supplies, why couldn’t we just go somewhere else?”

“yeah, no offence, boss— but this was a pretty long ways.” another member inquired carefully, typing in different numbers on a laptop, signifying to reach a code break for a lock from inside the van.

rightfully in their suspicion, it was a pretty far out place in the city to go to, and a expensive event place at that. maybe somewhere the saihara’s would go to for the unnecessarily expensive silverware for those ‘detective only’ parties they would host.

he moved away from the topic of the saihara’s, making his way up the side of the building by climbing the fence in the way back, eventually getting to the roof.

“because it’s not a normal party, duh.” he chuckled, hoisting himself up before adjusting the mask fully over his face, fixing his clothes next as he looked down from where he stood. “and anyhow, finals week is almost over and what better way to celebrate than a rager?”

“you sure know how to live life to the best, boss.” another member said admiringly, kokichi laughing to himself before moving back to the roof.

in full honesty, he only thought of it without saying much. sat back in his bed mindlessly twiddling his thumbs deep in thought and to his right, shuichi leaned at his desk, immediately studying intensely after finishing another few assignments and projects.

the criminology course taking a sore kick to his ass as he didn’t understand how the detective kept up with stress. certainly, he could crumble without the aid of straight out coffee.

‘man, i could go for a party when this crap is all over with’ kokichi thought begrudgingly to himself, sighing through his nostrils before the idea eventually hit him. weirdly enough, one of the other trusty council members seemed to have a similar pitch idea.

strolling the halls by the lankier boy’s side as he was caught in conversation with a shorter girl and a nicely tan boy close to his stature.

“It pains me to see how destroyed everyone seems with these tests assigned— almost makes me wonder how much more studying can happen until a shining students morale is absolutely crushed with despair..”

he talked rather..passionately about that topic many times, a clinical way, even that kokichi even had to give credit to his insanity at most times.

“yeah, well that’s what happens when you get stuck here i guess..” the other boy seemed to agree, shaking his head.

“it’s not all bad, atleast when all is finished with, we could do something after.” the girl brought up, komaeda humming in interest.

“a celebration for hard work, per say? i admire how you think, chiaki.

“just let me sit back with some takeout and a movie and i’ll be set.” the boy added in, chuckling along.

“how characteristically bland of you, and yet, who was I to expect otherwise.”

“maybe keep your mouth shut.”

“no doubt there’s going to be a festival of stash handouts, If i had to guess.”

“count me in on that.” kokichi groaned over dramatically, finger tapping his cheek. “I haven’t had a good relaxer in days— is hagakure in charge again?”

“uh..no, he needed a break—“

“dammit, always the good ones.”

“no doubt if it’s stash trade week, someone would set up a place to party.” the boy chuckled awkwardly, taking a chance to rub the back of his neck. “I wonder how the hell else this place would run.”

“everyone would crumble without their fix.”

“wait, so if hagakure is tapped out then who’s— y’know—“

“don’t tell me you want to call it third times a charm, hajime”

“you know what, I don’t need you to act like— god, enough.”

“no, no, go on—“

“circle back to earlier, hm?”

“about a party? you know what, i’d kill to de-stress.”

“i’m sure I could come up with..arrangements.”

“you? of all peoples komaeda, really? colour me shocked.”

“while i definitely would prefer a book or a movie, making myself of use to bring up the morale and hope of our fellow students would make me feel honoured—“ he smiles with charm. “that is our job as council members.”

“you know i’ve got my gang, tell me what kinda party crap you need and i’ll get it.” kokichi offered rather enthusiastically yet still cooly, that devilish smirk tugging upon the corner of his lips.

“some basic necessities— i’ll inquire and spread the message.”

“shit— you’re really gonna go through with this? wait how many people do you expect to—“

“atleast a mass chunk of the whole school, i was serious about boosting the morale.”

“nagito, that’s—“

“a brilliant idea, i’m aware. besides, my parents are off in venice taking care of work matter for the rest of the month.”

“lucky bastard, what id kill to be home alone more..”

“maybe i should throw more ragers.” kokichi chuckled, a slapping a hand to clap up at the taller man’s shoulder. “leave everything else to me, because i’ve got what it takes to make this a well deserved event.”

“always reliable, ouma.”

so there he was, practically the middle of the day to get into a robbery to what’s supposed to be, quoted, “a well deserved event.” and in other words, making the four pm. robbery well and done without trace so the party at the komaeda’s was unforgettable.

most of some other basic party necessities mentioned on the list shoved away in the back of the van, already stolen from other stores. though the extra lights were a need.

those fancy, colour controllable ones to put around the pool and inside the house. ridiculous form face value, but kokichi never backed down from a challenge and was a man of his word. and damn if he could pitch in control over the music, it would be the best night ever.

with a final signal taken from a member by his wire, he broke his way from the roof into the building, carefully hatching his plan to obtain those lights.

the arrival at the komaedas with the van was only slightly stressful, atleast on the other people of DICE to say the least. mid-day robberies were rare, but never impossible, and speeding back and away, some parts out of the city and a beautifully decorated neighbourhood with green upon green and shrubbery made it worth while.

perhaps the komaedas would have to make a change to themselves if green was not a colour in life, how much their castle of a mansion was surrounded in beautifully cut and shaped plants and flowers, the old yet new structure of the place leaving all sorts of imagination to the mind of just how large inside was.

kokichi had been over there once or twice, him and komaeda weren’t exactly close friends but they had shared ideals nonetheless with their places on the student council, despite their large differences.

he made his way up the trail of stone paved stairs and past the gate, the backyard being the real treasure of the house.

the balcony from the porch with its large french windows and arched entrance led its way down with a nice set of stair, a pool to fit fifty or sixty structured with stone to look a part of a mountain captured the view. the main attraction, put aside the trees upon trees and well cut area of grass that left a large extensive view.

kokichi was snappy with his demands, the other members spreading out as he instructed with all of the decorations and necessities while he himself quickly made way down the stairs, conversing with the host himself and noting the other few people around to help prepare.

“i must say, you were rather quick with all of this.”

“believe me, i wouldn’t lie about willing to help set up something like this.”

komaeda eyeballed at the other clown masked members scattered around, before turning back with judgement. “and..that’s what you call helping out?”

“I pay them well, don’t worry.”

“mhm.” he sighs, shrugging it off after a few moments, offering a gesture to the large yard as they strolled around. “I made it known the party would start at six and end sometime later close near two in the morning,” the taller one begins, pointing a finger to spin in the air gently as a gesture of speaking. “let’s all be grateful the exams ended today..”

“hell, if it wasn’t a friday i still wouldn’t show for school the next day.” kokichi chuckles, taking in a breath before sighing in content. “nope— not after something like this.”

“well, the future of calculated criminal break ins relies on your back. i had a feeling it was wise to depend on you.”

“yeah, yeah, if you really wanna thank me you can get on your hands and knees like a dog and lick my shoes.”

“let’s not go there.” nagito chuckles with a wave of his hands defensively.

“alright boss, lights are all set for outside!” the pigtailed girl called from crouched beside the pool, a thumbs up shot to the air. kokichi throwing the signal back in return.

“perfect! think you guys can finish the inside!?”

“will do, boss!” a few of them called over with excitement enticed in ethic voices, all moving at their own pace back inside. he smiles softly as he turns his head back to komaeda, heel tapping into the dirt. “told ya they love me.”

“if only you showed that much care to everyone else.” komaeda had attempted to prod at the leader, hands crossing over his chest in a moment.

“pssh— those extras don’t deserve my time, i’m too good for that.” he stands back up right with expressive hands. “got anything cold to drink?“

“this way.” he chuckles to himself, leading the way back inside the house with the leader. koameda throws his head back over momentarily to see the leader in his path, moving through the archway and to the elegantly structured kitchen.

“anything in particular?” he asks, kokichi throwing himself into one of the seats at the marbled island.

“whatever carbonated stuff you got.”

“we have seltzer waters.”

“how bougie, no thanks.” he scoffs haphazardly, as the other fetched a drink for himself, turning to face the other across the island.

“you seem a bit off..care to explain?”

“you’re off, because who keeps tasteless crap like that in their fridge.”

“tasteless or not, it’s a good thing to have. the carbonation imitates the feeling of being full after a meal which comes in handy.” komaeda holds up the can in his hand, beginning a sincere explanation as he goes to open it.

“yeah, well you look like you actually need to eat instead of drinking…that stuff.” the leader moves his eyes up and down keenly, propping his chin in his palm. finishing a sip, the other man hums idly.

“you’re definitely not yourself in a sense, recent confliction?”

he treads careful, scanning the show of komaeda’s cynical and suspicious expression. he darts his tongue across the inside of his cheek quickly, leaned forward with his arms crossed. “yesterday.”

“mm?”

“you know a guy name kenji kotoro?”

“is this gossip?“ he clicks his tongue in a tsk, setting down his drink. “I do pity those who are so pathetic to look down on others with nothing better to do…” he starts off rather darkly, before quickly switching up his demeanour. “but, I continue.”

kokichi felt the twitch of his eyebrow as he remained unfazed by the others behaviour, only dragging on. “so?”

“the ultimate surfer? heir to a generational dock and boating company?” komaeda begins listing out the kinks of the boys name, can in his hand as he waved with expressive, thoughtful hands. “he’s quite the outgoing one, definitely has enough potential to be a pro at navigating the waters.”

“delusional is what he is.” kokichi growls lowly, a pitied sigh following.

“well then you’re definitely off today, i’ve never heard you talk so lowly about someone before..” komaeda says observingly, taking a look around the house at the others setting up, looking back as he finishes his sip. “unless it’s a petty fight with momota or iruma, obviously.”

“i’m not even sure why i’m discussing this.”

“whatever problems you have with him are none of my business, but, he’s definitely the party animal type, so if he arrives later and you’re in a bad mood I might have to question a few things.”

he shakes his head as he explains carefully, leaning in more with a lower voice, not wanting his other members to hear nearby. kept his eyes on the other.

“ever since him and shuichi have been buddy buddy, he gets more weird and delusional by the day. the next place i find myself, i just wanted a bag of chips and he approaches me.”

“mm..” he hums carefully with the can to his lips, watching as the leader sat back in the stool with an unamused expression. “picking a fight, perhaps?”

“something along the lines of shuichi ‘deserving a better person’ and ‘staying away from him’ or whatever..” he scoffs. “even shuichi didn’t pick up yet and he still likes being friendly with the guy.”

“this sounds exactly like one of those horribly played out love triangles in those romedy novels.” komaeda mocks, chuckling afterwards, taking another sip and turning his back to look around in the fridge.

“I don’t doubt he’s smart enough to detect and figure things out..and either way, whoever he’s friends with I could care less knowing I like my peace.”

“hmm..”

“guess this guy is a little ‘too good’ at lying to come off like a puppy dog to everyone.” he huffs out a breath, now sketching to a cruel mocking voice. “‘look at me, the ultimate surfer who loves being friendly to everyone and anyone’” he snaps out of his voice as komaeda shut the fridge again and turned back. “what a joke..”

“jealous he might take all of saihara’s attention?” he inquires with a tilt of the head and honest curiosity.

“his dedication to figure me out is cute, but he’s just another person waiting to give up.” he shrugs off, despite the contradictory to his real thoughts, what he wanted to say, wanted to happen. he folds his arms behind his head. “and surfer boy doesn’t have a clue about what that house is like if he thinks he’ll get even close to getting shuichi to like him, even better, find out if he’s into that lifestyle.”

“quite a predicament. even I have to be honest where it’s due, those saihara’s carry an elegant gene, so perhaps his delusion is just all about his looks.”

“i wouldn’t be surprised, shuichi is..” kokichi lets out a thoughtful sigh before smirking at the other. “a real fuckin’ loser— hey, kenji might be here later but i doubt he could drag him along.”

“you really are back and fourth with these feelings.”

“point blank, shuichi doesn’t like boys and his parents rule like dictators.” he stares blankly, sitting back up with a bored sigh. “i need to keep him a little interested anyway if there’s a time limit until he gets bored of figuring me out like any other fool.”

“well, if that’s how you insist.”

“boss, lights are all set up!” a member called out, kokichi cocking his head past his shoulder at the two masked individual.

all ready to go! and almost time for the doors to open.“

“well, that’s my cue.” kokichi dismisses himself, moving off the bar stool and beginning to walk.

“where are you going?”

“i’m not sticking around to talk with a bunch of NPC’S.” he calls out, turning on his heel to walk backwards to the door. “anyway, gotta get good clothes— be back in an hour, K?”

he snapped his fingers with a turn back and once, the other DICE members finding in their own pace to make their way out the door by kokichi, komaeda humming and consisting his drink as he watched.

the night fell like a lace curtain over a window, shades of orange and purple falling over as the mood greeted impulsive decisions and living life to its best nonstop.

the leader wasn’t one concerned about “fancy occasion” apparel in his wardrobe, just his uniform and regular loose clothes. and he wouldn’t be caught dead wearing dressage suit for a dinner party.

no, he’d keep something flashy and exceptionally ‘him’ but nothing too extreme as he dropped the shopping bag on his bed, taking out the contents from inside. he started to wonder if it would have been convenient if he went on that class mall trip, but brushed off the thought either way, a casual close to eight hundred spending was worth the looks.

slacks, over shirt, all white. he felt a little pride, the thin chain endearingly across his neck lay flat under his collarbones, the linen shirt underneath to show for the buttons he refused to put together.

another side task for some other time, kokichi would need to find a way to makes his outfits seemingly not white all the time. he liked it though, tossing the bag aside and grabbing his phone and wallet from his nightstand.

though the faint dangle of the familiar keychain caught him back for a few moments. the heat of the outside seething into the room, luring him to get out like a sweet smell, the call of fun.

kokichi stated a few moments at that little gift he was presented by the detective, who was nowhere to be found, off with his uncle in his office again, he presumed.

without another thought, he grabbed the keychain and clipped it to his belt loop, leaving the room with a quick shut of the door.

Chapter 10: 10.

Chapter Text

the overwhelming and intoxicating night that surrounded there and before the leader only increased his want to take in every moment, every second.

the beads of sweat that stuck to the back of his neck, his senses were overwhelmed, the scent of alcohol and faint smoke biting his nostrils to the back of his throat, he was livid in knowing exactly how his night would go as he shoved himself pass the crowd of people. parked cars upon cars, kids flooded all around and music blaring. rather lewd lyrics but riffs of an electric guitar and string vocals.

he understood the band playing over the speakers. kokichi finally made his way into the house, and at once, found his way to the table set up by the kitchen. drinks of many options, propped open coolers with ice and carbonated drinks or dipped solo cups scattered.

the leader immediately went for one of the vibrant purple cans in the cooler, letting the fizz of the drink spill over and onto his hands. the start of the ultimate supreme leader’s night already doing well with something so simple.

he brought it to his lips in a fell guzzle, feeling someone quickly slap a hand flat across his backs causing his head to jolt forward and spit his drink out, followed by a cough. he turns his head to see miu, laughing somehow obnoxiously louder than the blaring music, yelling over it.

“glad to see the king himself arrived! where ya been!?”

“waiting to make a scene, dumbass!” he coughed, straying his way to push by the crowd and to the back, miu taking lead. “hope you brought your swim gear!”

“fuck no— shit, i totally forgot.” he groaned as he chased behind her to the large archway and to the backyard. now filled to the brim with kids doing all sort of things, the vibe was set in stone with radiant declaration.

there had to be a complaint by the neighbours coming in soon. people jumping in and out of the pool, those stolen party lights set up and around illuminating red and blue all around. crystal clear to him, the band playing over those stolen speakers, some australian trio that had fame for explicit lyrics, flan good songs though.

but fuck it, he could always ditch his clothes, bringing himself to immediately begin messing around with a familiarly tall classmate as miu and him ran into the crowded yard.

“these lyrics are way too gross for my taste!” kaito complained loudly over the noise.

“you don’t have taste, live a— haha little!” miu nudged at him, followed with a slur. barely two hours into the party and she was somehow already tipsy, that’s the ultimate inventor and party animal for you. that’s the majority of behind the doors imperial high students, that’s just how the cookie crumbled in such an inviting setting.

“yo prez!” a few integers called over, a group of students, their leader grabbing at kokichi’s attention and ushering over. “pong, you down!?”

“shit— this is all really going down.”

“and here’s where the king himself falls.”

“have to represent!” kokichi laughed, pushing past the crowd and over where the large table was set up, others upon each other lined around or cheering, the flash of lights and phones recording already starting as he stood at his end with a prideful smirk.

“this seems like a bit of an extreme— i mean, this much to celebrate tests ending?” shuichi reasonably questioned from the passenger seat, kaede nodding behind the wheel. “events like this are pretty average after finals week wraps up.”

shuichi seemed intrigued, a bit taken back though. “i’m fine with being near the others, I just..well..” he trailed away.

“not a party person?”

“well— that and, uh..my parents would have been six feet under if they found out i attended something like this.”

kaede opened her mouth, perhaps a few words of empathy and a bit regret to sooth the other. until rantaro peeked his head from the backseat, waving a hand smoothly. “that’s the same mindset all these other kids’ parents have, and guess who never finds out.”

“I guess that makes sense.”

“you don’t have to go, shuichi, I can turn around.” the pianist reassured.

“it’ll be good for him.” kenji assured, leaned with his legs spread next to rantaro. his messy hair a bit more in beautiful spikes with added styling, an adorned blue linen shirt unbuttoned by three to finish it off. “I mean— well, it wouldn’t be fun without him.”

“i’d most likely end up on the couch either way.”

“we wouldn’t let that happen, come on, you’re the best guy to possibly be around.” he proudly smiled, shuichi only shaking his head slowly and turning back to the window.

“we’ll all stick together— if you don’t want me to turn around?” kaede checked in again.

“i’ll stay with you guys. it’s not like i exactly have anywhere else to be around.”

“there’s the great boy detective for you.” kenji cackled out proudly, leaning forward and firmly pat his shoulder. “don’t worry, this will be the best night of your life— and don’t worry about your parents, we’ll make sure to keep this under wraps.”

“thanks..I suppose.”

“another! c’mon, almost down!”

much to his initiative as the ball bounced off the opposing and into the other, landed in the last cup. another drink down as it was the final shot, and the other team had went as well.

kokichi grabbed his last cup and too down the small bit of the drink that was down before ditching the solo cup. that crowd that stood around the table in a chant all cheering as he knew exactly how it would’ve ended one way or another.

how he managed to still feel alright on his feet he didn’t have a clue. though, well enough, the other team applauded him as he made sure to leave to walk it off. definitely get some water in his system before getting back out to anything crazy.

with his strut back inside, a tired familiar girl had accompanied him momentarily.

“ouma!”

“mm?” he had turned his attention briefly m before allowing her to join his side as they walked in. “shouldn’t you be leading a mario kart contest or something?”

“i was actually heading back to that.” she gestured to the house as they inched closer, kokichi chuckling slightly, a bit more giddy than typical all thanks to pong. she waved her hand. “well, i take it you’re having fun..”

“well fuck, i needed a little release.”

“you didn’t even study for the finals— let alone, why you even take the psychology course i’ll never know.”

“not easy to understand liars.” he chuckled, a quick comb of his fingers for his hair back before it fell back in place. his own way of sobering up. “tell ya what, i’ll see you around but you have fun with..that whole thing.”

he had remembered to make his own gesture to the entrance of the living room as they found their way further in the house. a crowd of kids all aggressively bickering at a supposed team that was playing a match. chiaki tiredly laughing. “yeah, i’ll check that— see ya.”

and without another word, he began back on his crusade. finding the bathroom for some water being the best option because he wouldn’t dare risk drinking anywhere near the flood of cups and cans all stacked or squashed in the kitchen.

“yo, prez— we got some cards out—“ a student seemed to call out, grabbing at his shoulder as another few joined in to talk. “nah he’s into poker and shit— hold on, we’re worth our money join a game.”

“yeah, you remember talking it up.”

“yeah, yeah, i’ll be sure to swing around you losers soon.” he had somehow managed to say out to them with a large grin without a groan of annoyance leaving his lips. the students went off as he was back on track to moving upstairs to find the bathroom, the blaring music ghosting as he moved further.

the appeal of making yourself known and yet, being so hated at the same time. well, rather it was a hit or miss. that’s the type of person he was his whole life.

you either liked kokichi ouma for all of his jokes and gestures and lies and charm that lit up a room like no other, or you despised him for just all of that the same. whatever, he could live with that, so long as he knew his place holding enough influence at the damn school.

with a large sigh of relief heaving from his chest, he had found the bathroom and swung the door shut. immediately making action to run the faucet ice cold. back to the rest of his night after that. matter of fact, he wondered how long he’d be there. so long as he could get enough word in everyone’s mouth back at school.

“class president seen downing pong with a win.”

“kokichi at the function? expected but also weird from that guy.”

“the king himself right here right now.”

yeah, he’s gonna own the night.

“it’s really loud!” shuichi managed to raise his voice over the blaring music, taking a look around his surroundings as he navigated with the others in the backyard. the pool, the games set up, if he looked close enough, some reckless idiot climbing one of the tall trees.

“don’t worry! we can always leave if you want!” rantaro assured him, a hand patting his back, kenji quick to make a face as he inspected shuichi. shuichi taking a glance at himself rather half-nervous. “what? is something wrong?”

“the outfit just..needs some more character.” he nodded, moving closer, shuichi questioning as the other had taken his fingers to curl around the others dark shirt, pulling at the buttons.

“hold on, what—!?”

“just trust me hold on— it’s not a business event, ya know!” he quickly assured, finally taking the next button out of its loop and adjusting the angle of the shirt gently. leaving the collar and just barely below exposed. shuichi didn’t seem all into it, though a few more spoke.

“well, this feels like a turn around.”

“shuichi!” kaito blared, slapping the others back as he approached from behind, the detective catching himself in a slight cough of surprise as kaede helped him stay steady. kenji already making his way to greet kaito with the slap of their hands in a crisp grasp, the same exchange with rantaro and back

“didn’t think i’d see him around here! hey, you should totally do training together with me and maki-roll after all of this is over with!”

“I, uh—“ he was caught away in slight surprise, just now had the detective caught wind of the music playing and the lyrics within, turning back with a certain expression. “this..this music is really explicit!”

“man!” kenji laughed. “this your first time socialising!?” his head tilted back with so much pride and back. the shades of blues and reds from the lights in the dark of the night encapsulating the handsome yet beautiful look across his face. “come on! this is a celebration!”

and deep down, he really wasn’t sure about this, note fully enough. should he even be at such an event? his parents would surely find out, find out about the music and what every student was doing here off of school grounds.

even the lowly, gentle exposure beneath his shirt seemed to damn him. then again, whenever was shuichi not dammed to himself or to his family.

“alright…” he admitted. almost simultaneously, everyone around seemed to applaud and laugh in excitement, kenji immediately throwing a friendly arm around his shoulder. too friendly, but he still gleefully smiled. “first hit up, detective! let’s get you a drink or two!”

he swallowed whatever he wanted to say, because dammit despite all of that, whenever was he going to get another chance of possibly feeling a bit more outside himself than maybe like this? even if it was reckless, maybe the risk could be worth.

hell, if he’s supposed to be expected to find the motive behind a victims dead body ten times over in the future, then it wouldn’t kill him to be a little risky, right? kenji sure as hell seemed like he wanted him involved.

screw it.

a rightful walk out of the bathroom after some time was well what he needed to feel on his feet correctly again. and man, was the high from that definitely not boring whatsoever. kokichi adjusted at his shirt to fix it some bits before avoiding the many other doors on that floor, the tipsy pairs or so on that walked in giving an uncomfortable idea to those passing but why having a crowded house event was suitable, blocking noise or…certain smells you’d only see come from within small bag contents.

and we’ll and behold as he made his way back down, the few students wishing to talk him into different games or events lit up, moving in to high five and so on. a bit surprised, but not very much caring as he grabbed another can of soda from the cooler nearby as a few familiar classmates joined by.

“okay, i’m sayin’ poker first cause we made that bet beforehand—“

“back, back— wait, we’ve got spin the dare with a bunch of randos if you’re trying to get some action.”

“okay, but poker first, wait right—?”

“you’re all idiots.” he sighed rather loudly, shaking his free hand carelessly at the disappointed look on the students.

“shit— you hate poker now all of a sudden?”

“hey prez, you should mess the pool jump, i’m sure everyone would totally—“

“kokichi!” a sweet voice called out, a quick turn around of the head at the blonde who grabbed at his shoulder.

“kaede! what a surprise.” he chuckled, finally waving a dismissing hand to the others behind. he looked back with a sip of his can. “you need a favour or something?” brought the can down with a swipe of his tongue across his lip quickly. “i could get my crew to gauge out someone’s eyes…well…not really, that’s a lie.”

“enough of that— I knew you were gonna be here but, jeez—“ she laughed gently, fixing at her hair. “i’m surprised you’re not leading a crowd surf or..something reckless.”

“i’ll get there eventually.” he shrugged. “so what’s good ol’ piano freak doing here tonight?”

“oh, right!” she laughed, leaning closer in hopes to not have to raise her voice over the music. “i just got here with taro and gave kenji a ride! shuichi got dragged along too.”

and at that. at that, he almost choked on his drink as he had taken another sip, blinking some times at the other.

“shuichi is here!?”

“yeah! i was pretty surprised too— I guess kenji is good at convincing these sort of—“

he waved his hand with a scoff to interrupt. “shuichi is actually here!?”

“i just said so!”

he had taken himself back just a bit, and frankly, he really don’t expect to catch himself reacting in such a way. nonetheless, why he had many thoughts rushing through his mind as he seemed to subtly turn his head around once or twice over the masses and masses of people around the party.

the possibility he would find that specific shade of blue and a ridiculous untameable strand of hair that would stand out from the mass. he felt ridiculously as he looked back, thinking back.

“kenji convinced him!?”

“he’s pretty persuasive..I did try to talk shuichi out of it though, he didn’t seem too sure to be here.” she had now turned her head around to check for whatever possible. “I think they were last at the kitchen getting drinks!?”

“right.” he was able to return with his facade that was completely unknowing, no trace was what to read. a few steps away past the crowd and he would be in the kitchen, look and see the other.

it was a strange thought, the idea of seeing someone as reclusive such as the young detective. he even went as far as to ponder how he could frame his beauty for the night. maybe a dress shirt of some kind, the leader doubted he could ever dress any other way that wasn’t formal. it made his chuckle, but he snapped back to normal as he shrugged at kaede.

“well, hope you enjoy you self after finals here tonight!”

“I uh— yeah, right, right! you too, kokichi!”

and without another word, took a swig of the carbonated goodness before making his way past others. he followed what seems to be a path of how the lighting paved the walls, bounced of others clothes and faces and to the floor, went to the kitchen and to that same bar area he spoke to komaeda about his suspicion about kenji, and how it was entirely true.

to think someone like him had been able to convince shuichi to get out tonight and whatever strange unsettling feeling was growing in the pit of kokichi’s stomach wasn’t good news. he had absolutely no room to talk with not trusting another liar, but either way, he wanted to take a peek and a talk.

to say the least, kokichi wasn’t sure what he was expecting, but the view itself as he stood a few feet away drew him in. no, not the very obvious flaunt of the messy blonde and the freckles layer across his exposed chest or face as he smiles wildly.

shuichi saihara with a solo cup pressed to his lower lip rather anxiously, the smooth black shirt and slacks he adorned to make him blend in the corner as much as possible contrasting the scarce attention to his collarbones. every inhale, every exhale a show for how they melded into his gorgeous skin and popped.

kokichi could have sworn to himself he sobered up, but that must’ve been another lie.

with no hesitation, he took another sip from his drink before striding over past a few more people, eventually standing beside the detective as he grabbed his attention. surprisingly, shuichi too, seemed all the more shocked.

“ah— kokichi—“ he cleared his throat slightly.

“well, well, didn’t take you as the type to dress dangerously.” he chuckled at the other, a gesture of his fingers to his own neck. shuichi taking another glance down at himself and back up even more nervously.

“ah, this is uh— it’s not—“

“a fashion statement, am i right?” kenji interrupted with no apologies, flashing another grin as he leaned closer, arm wrapping around the detective as he subtly glared at the leader. though, kokichi only sparing him a glance back, his attention still locked onto the other.

“chicks dig it..and..others and what not.” kenji smirked at the corner of his mouth, patting the others shoulder. “you look great.”

“shuichi, shuichi, shuichi.” kokichi clicked his tongue, arm crossed against himself as he went in for another sip then back to talking. “come on, i know you’re easy to talk to but wearing your shirt because someone suggested it?”

“awh come on, it fits how everyone else around here is dressed up and out.” the other interrupted again. kokichi narrowing his eyes. “is that so? how strange.”

the blonde had kept his glare locked onto the leader, who so comfortably kept going on with this conversation. at the very least, maybe give saihara a hand out of the awkward predicament. yet, the surfer had other plans.

“ah, right, I completely forgot what i was going to say earlier. shuichi, wanna look around at the games they have around here?” he suggested carefully with a smile, taking the cup from shuichi’s hand and replacing it with another. though the detective seemed to have his own suspicions.

“i ahm—“

“oh don’t worry, it’s just soda in there.” he assured too quickly as he led a friendly hand to the living room. yet as long as this was happening in front of kokichi, he had his own plans to handle things.

“well, i’m sure that won’t do.”

“no offence, but it’s rude for you to—“

wack.

a firm, yet smooth slap of the hand to the blondes arm away from the detective left a confused look across his face. something so subtly angry yet much more deep down, kokichi could only give him a narrowed expression followed by a smile. “whoops, what a shame.”

“kokichi—?”

“hey shuichi, i’ve got like a million different campaign ideas for the council you should totally look over with me, yeah?”

he introduced suddenly, taking a few steps away with his own gesture in his expression that made shuichi curious. and anyhow, it would have relived the tension in the air some bit. taking a look at his drink then back at kenji, he walks off with kokichi suspiciously, tossing the cup in the trash on his way. leaving the blonde by himself.

“that was pretty rude, kokichi.”

“rude?” he scoffed at the idea. “you clearly don’t know me then.”

shuichi shook his head gently as they found themselves in another part of the house by the backyard, fixing at his shirt anxiously as kokichi lent him a look. he had a good suspicion kokichi wanted to head on with a joke to ask about his presence here, but shuichi was fairly still fixated on the others getup.

confidently enough, very himself in all white, though perhaps he felt himself a bit too fixated on the notice of the overshot hanging loosely over his figure in contrast to the more fit linen shirt under. he needed to snap back to reality.

“I didn’t take you to be at— well, I know you’re outgoing I guess I didn’t expect this sort of event though-!?” he raised over the music.

“any place like this is all me—“ another student bumping into kokichi excitedly with a friend.

“prez! they’re doing pool pong, follow!?”

“hurry, we need a leader to start the dive!”

shuichi carefully watching as they invaded kokichi into conversation. the contrast of how much many students had half split opinions about the leader on display.

he attempted to make himself still known in his conversation with kokichi, though before he knew it, a familiar grasp pulled at his arm.

“there you are! lost ya there!”

“kenji, hold on—!”

“c’mon! i need a dance partner!”

“dance par— hold on—!?” though as he wanted to find kokichi after the interruption, the music switched smoothly to the next as shuichi was pulled back through the crowd, losing sight of the leader.

just in sync, kokichi made note to push past the others. “i said i’d consider, hold on—“

“alright, see ya there, prez!” they had made their way quickly to the backyard with their own conversation, kokichi huffing a sigh as he lost sight of the detective through the crowd. he made a promise to make this night his, and that was his plan. and yet, knowing he was here tonight with kenji, something felt off. kokichi needed his eye out.

“kenji, hold on—!” he managed to finally say out as he was pulled to where others seems to be getting into their own routines of a dance in sync to the music, revolving shades of blues falling all around with the lights to add to the atmosphere.

kenji looked back at him with a gentle release of his arm. “hm?”

“i don’t dance, I’m not sure this is a good idea.”

“seriously!?” he seemed to be taken back in surprise, a student stepping atop a table recklessly as if to sing along to the song with hype causing him to lean closer with his voice. “I thought your family was into galas and stuff like that!?”

“I never actually participated in those…! so— yeah—“

he was quick to reassure, and yet that suspicious and off putting feeling the detective had deep in his stomach was turning. despite all the friendly demeanour, the initiative. something was off.

“i’m sure there’s a girl—“

“forget about that, just follow my steps, kay!?”

he didn’t have much room to retort before kenji moved in his own way to the music, grabbing the others hands to pull him closer. the initiative to make a follow through causing shuichi to carefully watch the way the others expression shifted and moved.

“trust me…alright?” he leaned in with a soft tone. something in the specific way he lowered his voice sent a wave of deja vu to shuichi. he couldn’t tell in the moment though why.

‘and what the hell were we? tell me weren’t just friends. this doesn’t make much sense, no. but i’m not hurt i’m tense, cause i’ll be fine without you, babe.’

or something along those lines that so many others sung with vice around with the music, something in the atmosphere turning a bit suffocating for whatever reason. this is what freedom is supposed to be? maybe he could ignore it for the time being.

leading hands scarcely by shuichi’s side kept him with attention as kenji had taken a small step aside with a hum, offering a cup from the table set aside to the other. “you look a bit hot, you alright?”

something was so horribly off. something he knew he could point out and for whatever reason he couldn’t. he should have been able to detect something if something was off, and yet, kenji’s so painfully genuine smile watching him said other wise as he brought the cup to his lips. taking down the drink before setting it aside with a cough.

“dammit— agh, what—“

“you alright? you need a break?”

“i’m f— agh— i’m alright, really..”

“glad to hear…sooo?” he tilts his head, leading him back closer. shuichi narrowing his eyes with a glance around the room before back as that dance went on.

komaeda, who was making conversation with a brunette by the fancy fire pit some distance away the crowd that formed in a mass around the pool leaned in a fancy lawn chair as the other.

“no doubt ouma will try jumping off the roof in the deep end for kicks.”

“mm, well, he’ll do just about anything to have his name in people’s mouths for days after this—“ komaeda shrugged off. “jealous you don’t have any shine of popularity, hajime?”

he scoffed at the other, the thin paper balancing between his fingers momentarily. “even if i wanted something like that, I wouldn’t risk something as stupid as a broken collarbone or leg.” komaeda watched as the other brought it up for a small drag before offering it to the person next to him.

“i don’t see how he’s the smartest in school.”

“he’s pretty calculated, I suppose..I still sense a bit jealousy.”

“well your spider senses are off by a lot.”

“speaking of.” a shorter blonde in a chair beside hajime spoke of with a scoff as kokichi approached komaeda’s way, hair damp and wavy as ever so evidently of what occurred, both shirts in hand.

“have a good time, prez?” komaeda idly chuckled.

“well, demand calls for fun and a little leading.” he replied with a shake of the head.

“uh oh, that’s not the face of someone who enjoyed jumping off a roof.” hajime added on with some question.

“shut it over there, porcupine.”

“well, that’s not the nicest attitude.” komaeda hummed, one leg crossing over the other. “you seem pissed off.”

“guess surfer boy managed to drag boy detective here.”

“oh? how interesting.”

“and just my luck i lost them,” he huffed out a disapproving sigh, moving over to the blonde to gesture for the joint. “who cares if it’s paranoia..It’s hard to enjoy myself, ya know?”

“god forbid he hangs out with another dude for too long, huh?” the blonde huffed mockingly as kokichi took a drag. “saihara’s not a fuckin’ fairy anyway, he’s probably fine where he is.”

“someone like him? I’d be surprised if he was.”

“not before the mrs. throws his ass in a pray away camp or something.”

“alright, alright, enough of that over there.” komaeda huffed with a shake of the head.

“I don’t get why they need to act that way anyhow..” kokichi rolled his eyes, hanging the joint back. “they act like it’s a crime nowadays or something, pretty sure we moved past that.”

“hey, their family did dirty stuff in the line of work back then—“

“so? my old man used to shut up people with sensitive information and they’re fine with gay people.” kokichi shrugged off.

“didn’t take you as the type to get sensitive about this stuff.” the blonde tested, taking a slow adjustment to raise a brow as he took a drag and exhale. “you got a crush on the guy?”

“i can be progressive and not pounce every guy i see. you hit on every girl you see?” he tested, twitching a brow.

“well then how about you spend less time worrying about him and get back to hyping it up here? your night or whatever you said.” komaeda hummed, kokichi softening his gaze into something unreadable.

“exactly, stop worrying about him if you don’t care about him.”

hazy. undeniably and unreasonably shuichi gelt like his mind wouldn’t connect to his body by the end of that dance he was pulled into. even then, he stumbled onto the couch nearby for some air, trying to compose himself to his best ability as double vision overcame him.

the music drowned in the back of his mind as his ears buzzed and he couldn’t account for why he felt like dying. the few others crammed around or idly by the couch making glances or such even as they involved themselves in their own affairs of whatever they held in their hands, bags being swapped under shirts before leaving. so much for him staying with the rest of the group. he needed to find someone.

shuichi took a stand, hands rubbing over his eyes and a few steps away before a hand swiftly made its way around the back of his waist. he tried his best to look at the person, not entirely making it out before he registered blobs of coloured hair and a distinct buzzing over their voice.

“you alright?”

“I…hold on, I…wait—“

“maybe we should get you elsewhere, you look pale.”

“wait, I..”

“come on—“ the voice helped him on his feet.”

“wait..hold on—“

he wasn’t entirely sure what had gone on next. another voice joined in, more high pitched and a talk occurred, another voice and overlapping conversation that seemed on one side angry. he really couldn’t decipher anything and he felt conflicted. next thing he knew, he was being carried with a surprising arm away.

a heavy sigh heaved from his chest as the night went on, his hair almost fully dry and shirts back on as kokichi still felt the need to keep his eyes out. something deep within about that damn blonde and keeping shuichi occupied with him.

oh, why did he care so much? better yet, have so much care for a person than usual or before anyone else? that’s the truth that was said, shuichi was just some person. there was nothing special about him. he didn’t speak loud often, didn’t have the most confidence, he obeyed his parents word, and he dressed like an old librarian.

all of that, and yet, why did he really care?

because he couldn’t trust kenji? don’t want the other to ‘steal’ away someone who was determined to further their friendship with his deductions of seeking past his lies? it all made no sense. he had feelings for that detective, no lie. but why did that care amplify? and better more, why was he so strong about being careful with kenji? he had something planned, he definitely did.

he moved around the party as he ditched another empty cup in a trash nearby, made his conversation around with people, said a few cocky words and went on. he lived that night up as he went around. and yet, what if he wanted something else? a little seclusion away from the intoxicating atmosphere? not because kokichi hated it, but a break next to the other maybe would’ve been more enjoyable than something stupid or reckless.

he would watch as he brought his fingers to curl under his chin as he made his small deductions, the quiet hum as he talked back and forth with the leader or saw past another lie he was sure the other wouldn’t find the truth behind. a little privacy between the two as they talked like that, talked as they did when he received that keychain he toyed around with, still hung around his belt loop. a little moment of simple peace between they two he hated to admit he might’ve really liked deep down. admits out loud, atleast. he just wanted to see shuichi again.

whatever kenji had planned, he didn’t want him caught up in it. maybe he was selfish about some things he shouldn’t have been.

maybe someone was seething into his thoughts, listening to every word as he found a quick glimpse. that specific shade of blue again.

that shade of blue that fell over a beach at night, lurking across the sand and sipping into the waves of water under the moon. slumped as someone was carrying him past the crowd and near the front door. kenji.

“shit—“ he muttered, someone quickly grabbing his attention he was about to shut away.

“kokichi, have you seen kenji and shuichi??” kaede, in a panic.

“I..yeah— over there, the hell—“

“i think he was spiked or— or something, I wanted to help get him to car to take him back but he was insistent on taking shuichi.”

“of course he was..” he shook his head, pushing past the crowd.

“kokichi, wait!” kaede followed after.

the young detective still in a slump, kenji new well enough his plan was working as such, close to the door and out to the car. surely kaede and rantaro could find someone else to get them back to the dorms.

well, not that he cared in the moment since he needed to keep pushing on his own little facade out the door. the cool air hitting their faces simultaneously as kenji kept soothing the other with a gentle voice. “don’t worry, we’ll get you some water and into bed, take a breath..”

he had thought he was done with what he was doing, but kept up his little act. good enough, as two voices caught on, kaede calling out as she approached.

“fucking hell..” he mumbled under his breath before giving her a worried yet firm look. “kaede, hey—“

“what the hell are you thinking? losing me on purpose to take him back to school without help?”

“you’re right, and i’m really sorry, truly— I just..look, he’s my best friend and I care about him a lot.”

“he’s my friend too! but you’re acting off about wanting to take him back yourself.”

“yeah, ken,” another voice joined soon enough as he walked closer. kenji locking eyes with kokichi again as he made his way down the lawn steps to them. “so why not let her help? better yet, not get involved.”

he tightened his hand around shuichi’s waist, who looked half asleep at that point. “he said himself he wanted to stay with me the entire night— believe me, i appreciate the concern and help—“

“fucks sake, kenji! he looks like he’s about to pass out!” kaede suddenly interrupted a bit too impatient with the others gimmicks, kokichi narrowing his eyes at shuichi. lazily slumped over and eyes barely open, somehow another button of his shirt undone. “whatever he said earlier clearly doesn’t apply now! he can’t even talk properly!”

“didn’t think you’d be the type to get sensitive like this.” he sighed with a forced look of concern, still leading shuichi to the car. kokichi knew well enough to step in, stopping the other with a testing look.

“how about you lend him over, huh?”

“wow..unbelievable you two don’t trust me—“ he scoffed as he attempted to move forward, just for kokichi to firmly shove him back. enough force to make him stumble, kaede luckily already ready to catch shuichi and help him up.

kenji let out a cough as his back hit the ground, staring up at the leader who moved closer, leering over with that striking gaze. something uncanny out of a lost movie.

“got a fuckin’ problem, ouma?” he sat up on his elbows before standing up. “spit it out.”

“get out of my sight before you cause a scene here.”

“you damn—“

“now.”

surprisingly enough, kenji bit back on his words, a slow, sternful look at the detective slumped under kaede’s helpful arm then back. back at the leader who kept on with that cold gaze that cut through his soul.

he stepped back with a trying scoff, eventually walking off, despite the few students gathered around in hopes for a fight. not tonight, any other day, but not tonight, kokichi thought as he offered another arm with shuichi to help the pianist, making their way to the car.

“you sure you have it handled?” a quiet tone as she kept a respectful distance in the dim room by the bay window. kokichi watching the limp, bed ridden detective on his side. an empty bowl and some water aside rightfully enough. he hummed at kaede.

“yup, don’t worry your pretty head— the ultimate supreme leader can handle anything.” he replied in an equally low tone.

“you really were going to fight him..huh?”

“if it was needed.” he shrugged, taking a seat on the edge of the bed, kaede humming carefully as he leaned her head against the post, a thoughtful look kokichi caught onto.

“what?”

“kenji is such a nice person— i mean, that’s how he always made himself..I don’t understand what could’ve possibly possessed him to—“

“he’s a liar.”

the soft lighting cast onto kaede’s face in the night illuminated some form of take back. “..what?”

“oh please, when you live a life like mine, you recognise that sort of behaviour.” he turned back to shuichi in thoughts, his face still stern and tone low in his throat. “no, he was just another average ‘pretty boy’ wanting to be the good guy..”

“I see..”

“it’s a shame shuichi wont remember much of this though..that was probability his intentions all along anyway if he wasn’t stopped or whatever..”

“I don’t want to think about the bad outcome,” she scoffed at herself; eyebrows twisting with concern. “I should’ve got him out of there.. i knew it wasn’t a good idea for him to be in a place like that.”

“i could say the same for you.” he attempted a joke.

“he seemed worried from the beginning though— it adds up from how it started, convincing him to go there, undoing his shirt and so on..” she took her own look at shuichi. “I should’ve done more.”

“well, atleast he’s back here, so be grateful about that much.” kokichi pressed on with a casual tone of voice. well enough though, he felt anything but casual and apathetic about this despite another obvious lie. he was careful as he moved from his bed. took a spot to his knees against the floor by the detective.

kaede watched as she sucked in a slow breath, the few moments of soft silence falling over. “you’re right…but still, shouldn’t we do something about kenji?”

“what, report him to the principal about something that happened off school grounds?” he hinted disbelief at the suggestion, taking a few fingers up to brush some hair away from shuichi’s face. “the adults here don’t give two shits about their students anyway.”

“so…then what? we forget this happened?”

he kept his gaze on the other carefully, like he didn’t want to look away again. but he was ‘brave’ enough to glance back at the pianist with a thoughtful look. “I’ll think of a way or two to keep him away.”

“right..”

“just don’t worry about it or whatever..and don’t let anyone else get involved and spread useless drama around, kay?”

“right..” she nodded once in agreement, pushing herself away from the window she leaned against to stride to the door. silence fell over the room once again as she softly freaked the door open.

kaede took one last thoughtful look back at the scene. some hiring not very seen before, yet intriguing much in the leaders face as he kept looking at shuichi, watching over in a sense. he seems to feel her gaze and look over with furrowed brows.

she remembered fondly how the scene seemed to remind her of any other sit down at the piano. she would close her kids and imagine pictures, whether she remembered how the sun hit through her vision in oranges with shut eyes as a child and she’d think of running through a field of flowers, or get lost in her own melody of the keys she pressed and find some other picture to sync with the music.

the pianist felt her own wave of deja vu at the sight, she recalled an oil painting she saw hang across the lime wall of her childhood living room, like any other painting her mother adored to hang. a dramatic seeming scene, one with one lying sick and another prayed beside their bed, wishing for the health of their lover to return quickly. that scene she saw before her seemed similar in a sense.

certainly not as dramatic, yet to see someone as so boldly arrogant and socially deceitful as kokichi ouma for once at that vulnerable stance. luring at shuichi so gently and hopefully brought a sense of light to that dim room.

without another word and a nod to herself, she has left the room with a soft click of the dorm room shutting.

and kokichi was sure he’d fall asleep by his bed again in a familiar position as before, but he couldn’t care.

Chapter 11: 11.

Chapter Text

the day had turned about, that morning in particular filled with more gloom than usual, clouds shading the sky darkly and peering with its sickening light into that shared bedroom.

kokichi was still at his rest, leaned against that side of the bed, feeling himself turn his head to wake, pain that shit through his shoulders and neck from the uncomfortable position. a one of vulnerability and care, he should appropriately state.

he barely registered past that blur that clouded his vision idly, though finally adapting much clearly at the sight of an empty bed which made him fill with questions.

he pushed past the uncomfortable ache as he managed to stand straight, a groan escaping his chest. not a sight of shuichi in the room, but like on perfect cue, the door shut softly, said detective entering the room groggily in his wrinkled clothes from the night before. kokichi looking over.

“since when did you get up?”

“I..felt like I was dying..” shuichi whispered nearly, followed by a hand over his face as he made his way back to the bed. kokichi noting the other taking a seat back down, taking a newfound seat on the window ledge. he proceeded in a moment, seething out a sigh and looking at the ground momentarily.

“you remember anything that happened last night?”

“I don’t know..is this going to be another act?”

“hmm?”

“I mean to say..are you going to show concern or care then brush it off?”

kokichi pushed his brows together, the sudden way he looked back at him throwing an indescribable unsettling feeling in his stomach. he pressed on with a smile. “good job remembering what sort of person I am, shuichi.”

he brought his hand down from his face in a sigh. “no— I barely can account for anything that…” he had paused for a moment. “why am i still dressed?”

kokichi tilted his head. “so..you really don’t remember anything?”

“I d— i know I was at the party..you were there too, and kaede, rantaro..kenji.” he carefully recalled, a perturbed look drawn across his pale face as he pulled at his shirt for coverage. “maybe I should think it over in class..”

“it’s saturday.”

“oh..right, right.”

“must’ve been a really bad night for you to not remember anything.” kokichi blatantly stated, eyes following shuichi as he stood to move to his closet.

“I’ll think it over..I should worry about other things though.”

“well, now you know to never get involved in anymore house parties again.”

shuichi waited for the unreasonably tense air to move past, even when it didn’t as he shut his closet door, he spoke. “why were you there again? by my bed?”

“guess I was hella wasted too,” he played off with a smirk. “can’t blame me for wanting to have some fun.”

“that’s a lie, we both know that.” shuichi set his clothes on his bed, giving the other a telling look. “you’re going to show an ounce of care just to play it off, like last time.”

“well, atleast you’re getting better at your deductions.” kokichi crossed his arms casually.

“if you want to say something, then just say it, kokichi. I know I said I’d figure you out, but you have to give me a hint or two here.”

“maybe I care, maybe I don’t, maybe it’s fun seeing you distressed you can’t figure out what happened last night..look at you now, still tired—“

he interrupted him at once. “why do you have to act this confusing? it’s not the end of the world if you show someone you care, kokichi, so there’s no need to act that way.”

he brought his hands down from being crossed against his chest, not showing anymore of himself as he waved a hand, moving to sit on his bed. “again, that’s all up to you to figure out if i care or not..” he trailed off, sing-song like so characteristically himself.

the next part he said rather less casually, maybe a bit sincere. “don’t tell me you’re upset at the idea i might not care about you.”

shuichi’s expression didn’t exactly fall into something soft, more so something deeply sickened. not at the leader, but at himself. more so again, those confusing feelings within himself rose. he wasn’t sure what would happened if he said anything, only staring at the leader.

kokichi carefully tilted his head. “I can tell you what happened last night if you really wanna know.”

he opened his mouth again. “if figuring out who you are at your core means without care in return, atleast I would have had the privilege of having a friendship with someone as significant as yourself.”

is what came out of the detectives mouth. but really, he meant something else. something he couldn’t be bothered to think about or he would feel more sick than when he was hurling his guts up earlier. he didn’t want the others care, of course. only within their developing ‘friendship’.

the want of the same feelings in return to see one another in each other, perhaps those two had a mutual understanding there were things they got better than others for each other, and he knew with that care to carry, he wouldn’t be bothered with concern much more than he could hold onto.

yeah, a strong friendship, that’s what he wanted. not the guttural, rotting hands that tied around his chest and brought a mass of decay over his nerves for what he felt, something he surely had control over. control your heart and senses and you can control your deductions.

shuichi saihara could get rid of his feelings anyway he wanted, just as easily as kokichi ouma could lie his way through life every day.

“I think I can figure out what happened.” he started at his clothes, kokichi shrugging, pushing himself off the bed in a start to be cut off.

“you don’t have to leave.”

kokichi pushed forward with a questioning look. “we’re both guys anyhow.”

in return, a conflicting look fell across kokichis face, confusion pouring as he sat back on his bed, reaching for his phone. “right, sure.” and lay on his back as the other changed for the day.

he wasn’t sure if something was wrong with shuichi, or himself, or maybe both, but either way he still felt that strange thing in the pit of his stomach. maybe if it weren’t for that party, they wouldn’t be in this position.

the rest of the weekend passed as those days most usually did. just like how komaeda’s house party became the talk around school like any other drop of candards did in classes or passing periods. and the pattern of gloom that followed after in the weather must’ve just been a coincidence in stride, despite a seemingly normal routine.

attending classes, occasional conversing with his other classmates and and an excuse out of school for a case at the agency. well, cast aside how kokichi gave the detective strange stares in passing periods. even not saying much in the seclusion of their dorm room when night fell and classes ended.

and of course, the other big missing piece of the puzzle. how kenji was almost nowhere to be found, like another face blended into others. he had enjoyed the solace of being alone momentarily, but it soon caught on. it was just a lie, things weren’t exactly the way they were before that house party.

and by then, shuichi had a feeling he knew what had occurred as he deducted things together. that drink he was handed when the blonde pulled him into that dance was what caused his to feel shitty the rest of the night, that same blonde who looked at him so gently and so endearingly.

who threw his arm around him encouragingly and wanted to spend that time together, even for his antics and occasional unconventional habits.

shuichi remembered so very vaguely that last scene. attempting to relax on that couch before leaving, someone holding him to support his side, leading him out of the house just for it all to go black after. and he had a hint about who that person was. only to not find kenji anywhere to be found with rushing thoughts and infuriating questions

that day after his period, the downpour for the forecast was especially rough. rain bouncing off fogged up windows or echoing through the large, empty halls all through out the day.

it left a literal chill, even an extra layer couldn’t account for it, though the detective was less concerned about his warmth, more so locked into searching for kenji with his free period, anywhere he could have possibly been. shuichi would have went for the vending machines near the science wing as he took a walk up another flight of stairs and tread the hall, only to catch the sight of something out of place.

all of the shut door rooms indicating the absence of teachers, and one door agape slightly. following his gut feeling, he headed to the room, making his way in to look around at the dim lit room of empty joint labs and chemistry sets around. untouched and a bit eerie, if not for the statue of the familiar blonde leaned near one of the stations.

he pushed down whatever unsettling feeling he had brewing in his stomach before making his way over, a stern look plastered on his face.

“no surprise the genius boy detective would find me eventually.”

“I don’t have time for your games, you’re going to answer my questions, and you’re you’re going to answer them right now.” he firmly pressed, wasting no time with the initiative find the answer to the events that led him to this moment. glaring into the other who just kept on gently smiling, so innocently.

“I had a feeling…I saw you weren’t in your best state, so naturally I wanted to get you out of there and get you back to the dorms.” kenji admitted easily.

“that’s a lie.”

“honest, it’s the truth.” he put a hand over his heart before setting it down.

“you were the one who put something in that drink, kenji, do you take me as a fool?” he ran a hand over his face, a scoff following. “I didn’t completely understand why from the beginning you acted the way you did..and to think now you’re using that kindness to act like this—“

“it’s nothing like that, I swear—“

“you spiked my drink and made it look like someone else’s fault! i could take that down as a report, you know.”

whatever smooth facade kenji had hooked up and on an act of display fell downcast, his gaze softening in disbelief. “whatever..so you caught me, guess that’s my fault.”

“you’re unbelievable, you know that!?” he suddenly burst out. “I too you as someone genuine, and you were pushing me around this whole time to lead to this?”

“last i recall, you danced with me and went along with everything I wanted.”

shuichi’s gaze narrowed. “I don’t know what you were planning if you somehow got me out of that party, but I’m sure as hell not putting up with any of this moving on.”

“yeah, yeah, go on— send in your little report to your uncle about the party you really enjoyed being at”

he was taken back, a scoff of disbelief leaving his lips. “what are you talking about now..”

kenji raised his brows in interest. “oh, you don’t know?”

“know what?” shuichi treaded carefully, something in the air shifting more uncomfortably as the other shuffled around in his pocket. he was uneasy as he watched kenji unlock his phone and press on his camera roll, the detectives heart dropping to his stomach as he moved across the gallery.

pictures. pictures upon pictures from that party. shuichi in that dance with kenji, glasses and cups of various drinks surrounded or in the background, at one point a glimpse of shuichi taking another cup to his lips in a shaky way, contents of a small bag barely out of the camera near where another cup was placed. he felt sick.

“you know, the saihara’s have a strict way of living..being detectives and all of that, ya know?” kenji hummed testingly as he scrolled for more pictures.

“gotta keep up a good public image no matter what? especially with their dirty past and all the generational shit they did. the last thing they need is their perfect son being seen in such an environment.”

“kenji—“

“oh, and of course.” he clicked his phone off as he set it aside, fishing for another item in his uniform slacks pocket. a thin hard drive balancing between his fingers as he tilted his head.

“that little crusade in the rain like some romcom you had with ouma…I thought the mrs, had a strict no throwing yourself onto their allies son policy.”

“how— how did—“

“and the last thing they need to see is their son for the faggot he is.” he hissed out cruelly at once, low in his throat and he glared down the other so coldly. the largest contrast to how he had been acting the entire time.

for a sweet approaching boy, that dangerous feeling was not to be exaggerated in any form. the downward cast of his jaw and his piercing eyes past his lids showing something almost primal.

all of the criminals that stared him down for every investigation, every arrest, and none compared to how kenji looked at him in that moment.

he felt truly and utterly sick in his stomach as he took a step back, still keeping his eyes locked onto the other, kenji swiftly moving the hard drive between his middle and index finger. “and out of all people, I mean, really, kokichi? why stoop so low?”

“what’s your goal..” shuichi carefully asked.

“simple, you’re just going to have to do a small favour for me in return of me not showing these to your parents, obviously. i’m sure you’ve seen this seen enough cop movies to know how this goes.”

so this was how his day would end. more sick and afraid than he might have felt more in life trying dearly to keep his composure, and kenji stood there so happily. he knew he had shuichi on a leash.

“except for this one— a little confusing, but bare with me.” he casually laughed with some awareness, as if trying to de-escalate the situation he created the in first place. he moved forward, pressing a firm hand to the detectives shoulder before h could move back again.

“think you could do me a solid and return my feelings?”

“your…what?”

“be mine, of course.” he said so lowly, sweetly. shuichi wanted to throw up right there, but kept his composure nonetheless. he trailed the hand on his shoulder away, ghosting over the uniform collar of the other as he hummed softly.

“I had a feeling you were the one when i laid my eyes on you..” kenji admitted to the detective, the same hand smooth as it trailed flat down his chest, giving him a softer look. “so much intelligence for one person, yet beautiful kindness for everyone..so much yet so little I know about you, saihara..don’t you see what i’m saying? how it could be possible for two souls to mend together? find every aspect of each other show that deep love? i’m sure with the fact you’re the one..” he trailed on. shuichi bit back on his tongue, pushing his hand away just for another to grab at his wrist with a stern look. “It’s a shame you don’t seem to see the same way I do.”

“i’ll die before I ever understand the way you see things..” he bitterly mumbled.

“maybe,” kenji whispered, leaning in slow by the others earlobe, shuichi turning away at his cruel whisper. “or you’ll be close to death at the hands of your own parents if you don’t do this favour and listen to what I say.”

what was the difference, it just felt like a terrible sense of deja vu of being inside that house. every day he lived and voices echoed off those dark walls and lectured him back despite the moments of verbal or physical pain long passed, haunting in the worst way. why in this way?

oblige in some strange depiction of romantic feelings with the very thing his parents opposed just to avoid the exposure of the same act of being sen with another man and other despicable doings? it didn’t make any sense at all. but he had no say in it, and that was the truth, unfortunately.

“fine..”

“good to know.” kenji returns to his normal voice, cooing happily as he poked at his cheek affectionately. “annnd im sure you know to act normal when you leave this room, yeah?”

shuichi sighed, finally being able to step away from him, turn his back as he headed to leave the room to get the hell out of there. he tried his best to make his way of exit calm, but it still showed he was too aware of the circumstances of the situation, there was never a flan time shuichi wasn’t overly aware of something seemingly.

though the same hand caught up to him, grabbing at his shoulder in a quick turn before he left out the door.

“oh yeah..i forgot to ask for my first favour.” he hummed quietly as the detective was turned to him, that keying look still staring in his soul as something was coming up next. he wasn’t sure, couldn’t detect anything before he knew what would be a righteous gesture in kenji’s book for his own display of feelings. the quick lean into the other, pressing his face into shuichi’s as his lips caught his.

shuichi’s immediate response of him wanting to pull back, step away, run, anything. that strange sensation of being trapped there and that disgusting feeling in his heart squeezing, falling into his stomach and dying there with regret. every pull or firm push away he attempted just encouraged kenji to keep firm hands across his jaw, his waist or whatever else.

the anguishing that felt like forever came to an end as kenji had pulled back, a horrified gasp leaving the detectives lips as he looked back at him. the blonde simply swiped his tongue over his lower lip. “I wish you wouldn’t fight that.”

without anymore thought, shuichi managed to scramble back against the door, pushing himself away and stumbling horrified out of the science room.

he knew within this developing friendship, it would cause more confusion than simplicity. I mean, the man was a liar after all and he forced it that way. the confusing and chaos of finding the lies and truths was always much more amusing. though, he still had that sense of needing to find shuichi again.

maybe he had figured out the mystery yet? maybe it was only a matter of time before another round of rumours spread around the school about what happened with shuichi that night. but he didn’t want to hear one bit of that crap.

but of course, there never any escape, even if he had some pleasure of hearing the swell mix of words.

‘you see class prez jump off the roof? i got the whole thing on video’

‘that was the best pool trick ever.’

‘hella reckless though— you know he won pong four times?’ only two games. ‘surprised he didn’t get fuckin’ wasted.’

‘oh no way, I heard he the one supplying those bags being passed around—‘

‘I thought hiro was doing that??’

‘nah, nah, kokichi definitely took over’

he let it all happen in its own ensued chaos, but still went on with his day between periods. until he was behind last period as everyone cleared at the ring of the bell, indicating the swap to the next period. a hand carefully tapping at his shoulder as kokichi moved from his desk.

“yes, yes— I’m sure you’ve heard about the pool stunt and yeah…I did that.” he had assumed with a smirk. the student taken back with some confusion.

“uhm…”

“oh? not here to inquire about whatever crap you’ve been hearing lately?” kokichi scoffed, moving to the leave the classroom, the student following after. “how lame.”

“I just wanted to tell you myself that if you think you’d get away with something like that because of your status here, it won’t happen.” the student applied firmly, stopping kokichi from leaving the classroom. the leader raising his brows. “oh? i didn’t think roof stunts were that controversial.”

“you know what i’m talking about.”

the leader slowly pursed his brows, dumbfounded. “riiiight…and who are you?”

the student lowered her voice, making a quick turn around outside the class door and back. “I saw the whole thing happen, kokichi. and to think you’d stood low and do something like that..it’s unforgivable— I knew you were fucked in the head, but that’s unbelievable—“

“what the hell are you going on about?” he groaned out, tired of her ramblings close to a drunk dad.

“drugging your roommate and attempting assault on him?? you don’t remember something crucial like that? do you hear yourself—“

“take a step back.” he interrupted firmly, appalled at the very statement. “where did you get that source of information?”

“everything saw the whole thing! kenji just wanted to take him home and you wanted to get your hands on him the whole time. I don’t even know anyone dedicated enough to start a fight— punching down the person in the right.”

“you think I was the one behind that? oh come the hell on..” he rolled his eyes in disbelief at the conversation he caught himself in. though really, upon hearing this all, he had a good understanding that something like this could’ve happened.

anything ‘good boy kenji’ speaks, it must be the truth. why would someone like him ever dare lie about something so crucial? of course nobody would believe kokichi to deny or confess to something.

“what the hell were you thinking!? do you know how fucking sick you have to be to push something like that!? and did you really think you’d still be here standing after all of that—? oh, wait until it gets around, or until the principal—“

“you keep your lousy accusations to yourself.” he growled, pushing past the girl and exiting the class, just to have her call out as he moved in the halls. rumours got around a school like this all the time, but something as far as this was just petty and twisted.

‘did you hear or— never mind, I ain’t saying nothing—‘

‘fuckin’ say it, man.’

‘I mean..i’m hearing different things..’

‘y’know what, i’ll just spill it— pretty sure kokichi was planning to do..that to his roommate after the party.’

‘you sure? i didn’t think he was that type of guy..’

‘he’s a fucking criminal like the rest of his family, they probably do all kinds of morbid shit like that in their spare time— maybe he needed practice for the real world.’

‘I don’t think you can say that, they just do international trades and shit—‘

‘who cares what his family does, he’s just as bad as them if not worse.’

‘how the hell is he still class president..’

‘guys get accusations like this all the time, maybe he’ll dodge them.’

‘I heard the whole thing from kenji! he wouldn’t lie about something like that.’

‘anybody can be a liar though, yeah?’

‘who would you rather believe, the king of lies or kenji?’

‘i guess…maybe kenji—? kokichi’s done good stuff for the school though—‘

‘don’t tell me you’re gonna sympathise with that scumbag.’

‘it looked like kenji was the one dragging shuichi out of that party though—? what about the other blonde one?”

“kenji’s accomplice, duh— kokichi wanted to punch him for taking responsibility.’

‘I uh…yeah, guess that makes sense.’

‘i’ve got that shit on video too.’

‘i still don’t think it’s any of our business, just forget about it..’

‘as long as we have a criminal for a class president still, it not going back to minding my business.’

‘he’s the one who has to pay for his actions, he gets away with shit all the time anyway.’

‘fair enough.’

‘you think his roommates okay?’

‘yeah, he’s been around kenji lately so he’s doing well— oh shit, wait, that’s the saihara’s kid too?’

‘no fucking way— he was actually trying something as dumb as that with their alliance going on?’

‘how much you wanna bet they break off their union because their son can’t keep it in his pants?’

‘shit, i’ll give you my wallet.’

‘i don’t need a bet because that’s totally happening.’

‘or this is just another rumour that’s gonna disappear.’

‘not for kokichi, he deserves to have his actions haunt him.’

that was it, nonstop talk around the school and for all the wrong reasons. there wasn’t a period the leader could walk into without the glaring eyes of background people like a movie practically seething into his skin. every time he sat in class, every walk he took between passing classes.

he had felt the eyes of many always look down upon him with malice, just to return with more brutality to deflect it, force over it and push the control he had at his position.

every few words whispered or poor looks his way just for a smirk in return, or backed up words with cockiness he had too much of to fuel him. he recalled that nineties film adaptation from an american author about a child eating clown.

how that actor stared into the movie screen with bloodshot eyes and blotched white paint that encapsulated the true grotesque art of being too carnally observant of those around them, lurking for a hunt or to steal something. and the way those stares of every student he felt all around him something felt much more deeper, all because of one little lie that even he wouldn’t dare cross a line with telling.

all of this and still without shuichi in sight, maybe he had gone off a little with their last conversation.

but given how this situation had changed over the course of the few days after the party, he had to admit he felt a bit worried, despite how cooly he remained like any other situation he found himself in to cause stress. following after school, kokichi still cruised across his phone at the very obviously petty posts online made by others in the school, edited pictures from the scene and such.

the leader had grabbed what was leftover for dinner kirumi prepared for the class in the fridge. taking out contents from closed away tupperware and bowls, making looks over to the few others sprawled on the couch intron of the tv or talking.

he made a bowl of the dinner, tossing it in the microwave and put the rest away. an obnoxious blonde girl leaning against the counter quickly. he didn’t need to think twice to turn around as he shut the fridge. “what the hell do you want now, bitchlet?” he turned to face miu.

“so is it really true then??”

“if you’re gonna be just as stupid as everyone else and believe i’d do something like that to shuichi, then be my guest.”

she scoffed. “tsk, word must be gettin’ around pretty fucking good if you already assumed what i was talking about.”

“yes, ofcourse, the big bad evil supreme leader who doesn’t know the difference between right and wrong spiked eveyeones favourite boy detective and had other plans outside of the party.”

kokichi played along with a dragged on tone, shaking his head as he opened the microwave for his food. that same time seeming to catch the attention of the other few students lounged around, but he really couldn’t care if they heard or not.

“you’re really playin’ into that..too bad i was way too wasted to know what really happened.”

“then you should shut your mouth.”

“you’re acting all..tense about this, kokichi.” rantaro carefully called from the couch next to angie. “this is another stunt by some people who have nothing better to do in their free time.”

“atua believes that with enough time given to pass, things will most certainly clear for your name..if you play nice, nyahahaha!”

“yeah, what she said…sorta.” himiko agreed tiredly.

“oh, ofcourse, thank god for atua, yeah?” he muttered mockingly under his breath afterward.

“for all you do, even some fucked up shit like that couldn’t be believable.” miu waved her hand. “kenji has a weird game he’s running.”

“i don’t need your opinions about this, thank you very much.”

“god forbid someone tries to sympathise with you..”

“yeah well I don’t need sympathy about such a blatantly obvious lie.”

“you know that, but does anyone else at the school know that, mr ‘king of liars’?” rantaro tilted his head back across the couch to shoot a look back at him. kokichi furrowing his brows as he grabbed his bowl of food and made his way out of the common room.

“the fuck are you off to?” miu called out in disbelief.

“none of your damn business.” he said back bitterly, not bothering to cover it with a calm tone as he headed to him and shuichi’s dorm. as far as he knew, he could for the very least try to sleep on it. understand a bit of what was happening if he spoke with shuichi, who he still hadn’t seen all day.

it wasn’t like the leader to be the one to feel as though he was the one doing the chasing, but given how things had turned around, he needed answers. he could try and understand a few things to account for what was happening, figure out how to tear down whatever elusive ‘plan’ kenji had going out to clearly paint kokichi in a worse light than he painted himself in.

finally making his way to the room, he clicked open the door and let it shut behind him with a push of his foot, only to find shuichi’s bed as it was this morning. perfectly made and untouched. something about that upset him as he set his food on his desk.

any other few possibilities for the detectives absence in their room could either be a late night stroll, maybe to clear his thoughts and what not if he was conflicted and too much in his head. or his uncle excused him out for another case, though the latter seemed less likely because he had a strict rule he would only pull shuichi out of classes, not after hours. and given the situation, he very much could be on a little night stroll to clear his thoughts if he too had felt the weight of what was being said and done around school.

but upon more inspection, that upsetting feeling in kokichi’s stomach turned. phone and wallet missing, school bag not on the wall hook where it should be. something was horribly off. he could always reheat his food, but it was his least concern as he let out a quiet scowl, heading out the door to start his search.

“ridiculous..” shuichi muttered oh so gently under his breath as he kept scribbling his pen in the blank pages of the papers below him, leaned over the desk.

“am i hearing complaining?”

he sighed. “no, you’re not..”

“good, good.” kenji hummed, arms crossed across the back of his head as he lay sprawled in his pajamas in his bed. hoping to take a break from staring down from how long he had been, shuichi takes a look scarcely across the dorm room, to the empty bed across from kenji’s side of the room, specifically.

“oh yeah, don’t mind that.” kenji seemed to catch on. “kicked my roommate out for the night so it’s just us..doors locked too, so don’t worry, nothing could interrupt us.”

shuichi didn’t answer as he attempted to settle that feeling of despair that cling to his heart, dropping to and dying in his stomach right after as he kept writing the answers in the paper.

time passed in silence before he gathered them all together neatly, turning in the chair to hand to kenji, who had already stood from his bed to look over.

“there..all the answers to the assignments for the rest of the week.” shuichi explained briefly. he attempted to keep a positive tone for all he could, but really he wanted to just get back to his own bed.

tuck himself away and forget he was ever placed in this predicament. kenji kept flipping through the pages between his fingers, a smile creeping across his face, very pleased before he averted his attention to the detective. “I appreciate this a lot, shuichi, you’re so smart.”

he couldn’t understand for the life of him why kenji continued to act the way he did, look at him with such gentle eyes despite knowing how horrible they could switch in an instant. speaking casually, like he wasn’t doing this favour against his will. it was sickening.

shuichi took a stand, hoping to head for the door as kenji set the papers across the desk, stopping him in an instant as hands ghosted across his waist to bring him back. that sickening feeling tenfold as he was brought to look at the blonde. maybe for once, he could think back to that neck injury, about the cruelty of his parents words.

smother his thoughts and clear his conscience but the way he was caught up in this situation had him unbelievably sick and turned over, unwilling to leave any room for any thoughts that weren’t anxiety ridden.

he hated it.

“careful, shuichi.” he lowered his voice huskily with a shrug, leaning in close. “I still need to discuss our deal.”

shuichi held back any urge he had to shove him away as he pressed himself to th crook of his neck, dragging his lips in a sinful way that made him go pale.

“the hell are you talking about—“ he muttered out, kenji chuckling softly as he spoke low.

“you already know we’ll enough you have to do what i say unless you want those photos leaked, but, an added bonus..” he explained on, pressing a kiss to his neck.

“you’re gonna spend the night here twice a week to do my assignments for me..no telling anyone where you’re going and where you’re leaving from, it’ll be just us here like tonight.”

he listens on to every word, yet somehow at the same time attempting to drown out the sick words of the other as he dragged his mouth across his neck.

shuichi was a rotted soul with nothing good left over, with how easily he let himself get into this situation. he couldn’t bare to smother any thoughts he had, not with everything in his being that regurgitated and died out.

“got it..”

“and stick by my side, I guess you can hang out with your classmates or whatever but i want you mostly with me.” another kiss by his ear as he whispered. “im sure you can come up with a good lie to keep kokichi away off your tracks too, yeah..?”

“sure..”

“glad you get the big picture.” he pulled back, taking some twisted admiration of the other with a smile. “i’m sure it’s strange being in this position with another man, but…surely you’ll get used to it and learn to love it— i’m not sure you could find a woman to treat this good enough.”

shuichi didn’t respond, he wasn’t even sure how to respond. he just took note of everything that happened, maybe, just maybe find his way to weave out of this if he tried. he had to. the blonde leaned in with swiftness, thought shuichi was fast enough to clasp a hand over his mouth, his heart racing horribly.

“stop it— i’m not doing— I don’t like..” he struggled as the other persisted still. “enough, wait—“

“you’ll just have to learn to like it.” he said blankly as he pressed his mouth to other despite his disgusted struggles, keeping him trapped.

shuichi didn’t see why he couldn’t just die. maybe being stuck in that house would’ve been better than this predicament.

Chapter 12: 12.

Chapter Text

like he had prayed in a sense, he was back in that house as another allied meeting came around. stuck in nice clothing and at the dinner table with the ouma’s. matter of fact, maybe the only instance he’d be able to see kokichi properly outside of the dorm room.

he couldn’t bring his eyes to meet the others though, for all his piercing gaze across the tables and decently calm conversation with both families. for once, he seemed a bit more at peace next to his mother than anywhere near kenji and his childish ways of pushing his lies on for publicity at that school.

he kept himself silent, occasionally bringing up a subtopic for the conversation if allowed, still avoiding the piercing gaze he felt from kokichi across the table.

“still no luck on a girlfriend for shuichi, hm?” kokichis mom spoke gently, wine glass to her lips. “I was sure by now with that secondary partner setup, he would be hitting it off with someone.”

“well, I suppose we’ll have to wait it out until this school year ends.” mrs saihara speaks with pressed lips. “he’s decently in good shape as a role model candidate for many young women out there, im sure I could make a few phone calls and find someone.”

“maybe the miraculous will happen and he’ll find a suitor before summer.”

“either way…I guess I have to give credit where it’s due.” she began, shuichi making a subtle glance at his mother. “cast aside his academics and how well the agency has been doing with this alliance, I suppose he has a good future lying ahead..and your son too, perhaps..”

i’m it’s own twisted way, he was glad to hear words like that. though it could only last as n illusion for so long as he kept up a cool facade. only a matter of time before kenji could easily send those photos to them. yep, that’s what he needed to do, keep up a good act, become a liar himself.

shuichi nodded simply. “thank you, ma’am.”

his mother raised her brows just to take a fork of food to her mouth politely after.

kokichi balanced his knife between his fingers, swishing back and forth carefully with his other hand to hold his chin in his palm as he kept his eyes on the other. for a moment, shuichi had brought his attention up and to the leader, very subtly before looking anywhere but him.

“all this relationship talk is sooo boring..let’s move on.” kokichi suggested to the rest of the table, his father nodding along.

“well, we actually do have some matters to sort out more seriously,” his father begins, dabbing his napkin to his mouth before setting back on his lap.

“there seemed to be some miscommunication with a foreign organisation for weaponry trade on account of ‘turf wars’ happening a few cities away..typically this would be another one of those simple deals we could fizzle out, though we might need some..coverage, should there be any bloodshed in the conflict going on.”

“understood.” shuichi’s father agreed, kokichi at once turning his head to his own father, appalled.

“since when are you involved in killing again?”

“I never spoke a word of killing— never mind him—“

“no, hold on—“

“kokichi, enough.”

“I’m apart of this conversation too, ya know.” he dropped his knife with a stern look. “i dunno what you got going on with these people—“

“kokichi—“ quick enough with a swat, his mother brought a hand to slap against the back of shuichi’s neck as he spoke up.

“well, those two seem to be well spoken tonight— kokichi, shuichi, living room.” his mother spoke.

kokichi shot her a look. “are you serious—“

“now.”

with a scournful look she gestured out of the dining area, both of the boys taking their stand and in their own way, taking their leave to the next room over to leave the adults to converse without them. kokichi rightfully enough scoffed as they crossed the wall to the next room over for privacy.

“unbelievable—“

shuichi sighed softly under his breath, hand rubbing over the back of his neck as he kept respectful distance between him and the leader. “i’m just as surprised..they’re really going to consider going back to that sort of work then..”

“all in the work of unions I guess.” he scoffed, finally catching clarity of how he was acting as he looked back at shuichi firmly. “i’ve got more important issues to discuss with you though, detective.”

shuichi pressed his brows together carefully. “and I have a feeling that I’m going to have to tell you.”

“because you know damn well i’ll see past you if you lie?” kokichi tested, moving closer. “i didn’t see you for days, shuichi..and given your little situation at the party, i think I deserve to feel a little suspicious.”

“I..understand that.” he let out with a sigh, focusing on his words, the way he breathed. “as far as I can say, kokichi…i’m sorry.”

he seemed to swallow something down as he targeted in sincerity with his words, yet the truth died in his breath as he sighed.

“i’d hope so..last thing I need is seeing you disappear and get hurt or some shit.”

“i’m not sure why you say that.”

“you think i don’t care about your well being?”

“if you do, I just— wish that you didn’t act like you don’t.” shuichi admitted with a sigh, smoothing a hand over his suit as he took a stroll some feet away. kokichi watching him as he observed the room.

“fine then..you want the truth so badly to come out, huh?” kokichi asked lowly, breaking through the deafening silence that followed. shuichi seemed to perk up slightly as he turnover his shoulder over at the leader.

“well i’m sorry that I care about you, shuichi..it’s completely inappropriate and unfitting for who i am and my character, which I get more than anyone.” he chuckled through a breath. “not like a liar like myself could show true care for anyone, of course..”

he kept listening on, intrigued. shuichi kept his eyes on the other carefully as the conversation went on. a slow, what should be suspicious confession, but he listened nonetheless.

“but, unfortunately, I say this with where my heart is supposed to be when I tell you that i’m really fond of you, shuichi.” he admitted, eyes furrowing with a level of gravitas shuichi admired, yet still deeply seemed put off with.

“so sorry if you think this entire ordeal of you “figuring me out” and me confusing you was just for the sole purpose of copying whatever our parents have figured out, but that’s just another lie if that’s really the impression you have.” another step forward, shuichi still keeping his head forward and stillness intact. “so try and lie about what I might ask next and think I won’t see past it..but unfortunately you have my care, shuichi.”

something that was clogging the detectives throat was shoved further down, harshly being pushed down like a dry lump in the morning without a glass of water. he watched that leader with attentive eyes, glancing up and down at the close yet respectful distance kokichi left for them both.

that feeling he always had festering in the back of his spine that fluttered it’s way to his chest, swelling horribly like a bruise. he had many things he wanted to say at once to the leader so badly. that’s all he needed. an ounce of vulnerability, even if it was given with caution and control on kokichi’s part, he still had that vulnerability shuichi would know exactly how to treasure after his deductions and their conversations together.

and why now, was he dealt at the hands of having this revealed to him at possibly the worst time possible. he despised it, but knew the weight of kokichi’s words and went on. he kept a thoughtful face and opened his mouth.

“I care about you too, kokichi.” he admitted softly in honesty, quickly clearing his throat after. “so, I’m sorry for being reckless— not saying where I might be and causing harm doing so.”

shuichi continued on. he knew he could carry this on carefully. he needed to press on, do it well.

“as for my disappearance, I uh..recently had a serious conversation with my uncle.”

kokichi feigned unreadable as he listened to the detective. “go on..”

shuichi nodded. “I actually was the one to bring it up with him. I mentioned how I don’t have much to occupy me after classes and I wanted to get myself more experience if I want to properly prepare for my future. so, we came to an agreement he could take me in for side work at the agency after classes later at night, though on ‘specific’ nights with mir opportunity to work with more ‘ridden through’ criminals than day time infidelity cases that come in.”

and with a simple, assuring nod, shuichi had sealed his lie with regret to the face of the embodiment of a lie himself. though he knew it wouldn’t be the end there.

“specific days?” kokichi questioned.

“monday and friday, those are the most common days we bring in criminals at nighttime.”

kokichi searched across the detectives face for something. maybe the twitch of an eyebrow, the subtle movement of nervous fingers, breaking eye contact for even a second. the trail led cold, shuichi continuing to give a full, attentive response with soft eyes.

perhaps his paranoia had gotten to the better of him in some moments, he needed to trust shuichi. that’s what he wanted to do, of course, but even the most honest person in the room was just as capable of deceit as the embodiment of lies was everyday he breathed.

“sure…quite the coincidence this is happening around the time golden boy kenji decided to spread a few words around the school,” kokichi drawled, eyes narrowing similar like a dog on the hunt all the while shuichi’s expression slowly softened. “it’s hard to believe you’re not hiding something..”

“hold on, what do you mean ‘a few words’? he’s spreading rumours you mean—?”

“something like that. then again, when is my name never in someone’s mouth.”

“that’s— what kind of rumours, kokichi? obviously you should detest them. you can’t possibly be alright with others having the wrong idea about you.”

“that’s nice of you to say, but do you hear yourself?” he tilts his head. “you really think anything I say in defense would be believed?”

“I would believe you.”

the detective replied firmly. kokichi at once seeming to take back his overcoated tone of disinterest at the candid response from the detective, who made his own glance after after those gentle words.

“i couldn’t care what others say about you, kokichi.” he begins again to break the silence, swallowing down a shallow breath and continue through his facade despite the honesty creeping through. and that distasteful feeling in his stomach lurking.

“and why would anyone go out of their way to believe misrepresenting information other than if they have nothing better to do with their lives? nobody gets anywhere with gossip, and—“ he scoffs gently.

“it’s highschool, so you can’t expect anymore much, but it’s true..I hate that more than anything, so if you think i’m going to stand here for a second and not detest whatever you’re okay with others saying about you, then maybe you might not know me that well either.” shuichi finished strongly, letting his words sink in with their impact, allowing the leader time to process it fully in picture.

“you’re confusing, so absolutely confusing, kokichi, but…every absurd thing you may do, every lie you tell doesn’t account for your entire character.”

“shuichi—“

“i’m not done—“ he breaths out, another hand over his face as he went on, though something in the subtle shift of demeanour for the detective accounted for something actually much bigger.

as if he needed to hurl up true words he had been holding back for some time, maybe had it to do with whatever he explained earlier, or just a case of shuichi getting too emotionally in depth to his own words. he wouldn’t begin to understand how someone could put such feelings behind their words, tell it exactly how it was.

“just calm down a little,” kokichi dismissed briefly with a smirk. “i’m sure given time, people will forget kenji turning the story around and saying I..had something to do with the drink.”

shuichi paused, he shut his mouth then opened it again with the partnership of his eyes fluttering. “excuse you?”

kokichi solemnly shrugged, something about that movement off despite how cooly he acted before without much care about rumours. the leader tilted his head away and off to the side of his shoulder.

“everyone thinks i was the one who roofied you or something and tried leaving the party with you just because I was at the scene.”

“oh.” he slowly pauses momentarily, his face shifting uncomfortably before shaking his head. “oh..that’s— that’s wrong—“

“truthfully, kaede wanted to take you back to the dorms but i guess kenji already beat her to it and sorta snuck you under her nose.” he attempted to save himself casually. bringing his gaze back up, though shuichi still had that poor look knitted across his eyes.

“actually, i probably could’ve saved myself from this position if I left it to kaede.” kokichi went on lowly, letting silence sit in the air before he clicked his tongue.

“I didn’t want to risk something…happening to you or..whatever though..” he had looked back at shuichi with something glinting in his eyes for a split second. “i’m not sure how i’d live with that.”

“kokichi..”

“but! i’ve paid the price now, soo here’s my karma.” kokichi threw himself in once again, quite clearly cutting through the oh so terribly soft tone of the detective that tightened the leader’s chest with a cruel effect.

“I..i’m sure there’s..a myriad of regrets from that party none of us could really go back and change.” shuichi sighs, still keeping himself looking at the other. “you..really mean that though, huh…?”

“who knows..give me ten minutes to go back and stick with you and maybe something would’ve been a little different. rumours like this aren’t exactly in my favour. it’s a disgusting thing to lie about.”

and for the next part of his act, shuichi swallowed down another harsh breath, attempting to find the correct way he worded himself next and continue his little plan.

“well..for what it’s worth, i appreciate the honesty, kokichi, truly.”

“yeah, whatever, you’re rarely gonna see that unless you keep prodding and figuring me out.”

“well, that statement itself was honesty again.”

“who cares.” kokichi almost scoffs, raising his brows with a sigh. “anyways..guess i’m not seeing you monday or fridays for what, a few weeks at most?”

shuichi bit back on his tongue, ignoring that growing feeling of disgust in his stomach. “I think so, yes.”

“better do good on those cases then, detective.”

“yeah..of course.” shuichi had taken a step back subconsciously.

that said dying feeling in stomach rushed up to his chest as the leader followed his own tease with a scoff, more so a gentle one than a cocky one. the slight tilt of his head as he smile at the detective following it that made his chest feel tight uncomfortably. the guilt that swelled around tenfold, similar to that feeling that overtook him upon the gifting of that keychain, instant sickness.

shuichi could only wish, and wish he could rid the dirt and guilt within himself, but how could he ever. for the rest of his life, he couldn’t escape the husky laugh that echoed in the back of his head that died in his throat, the shine of adventure that never died out in kokichi’s eyes that always balanced with the chaos of his so many other faces. and he could pretend, maybe doubt himself that he really would die as another failed individual who never figured out kokichi ouma.

and yet the undeniable truth was in his face, every subtle touch, every twinge in exchanged smiles that couldn’t be held back, and how the leader seemed to be so far away but coming closer. maybe a form of vulnerability the other was willing to only let the detective see, something special to be accomplished.

he could never escape that, and shuichi only wished now that if things were different, things had been set up differently; if his mother and father never taught him what things he should feel and not to extreme turmoil, what people he was involved with at school, had he been given the chance to figure out what he wanted for his future, who he wanted it with rather than solace in death he had seemed to have distance images of, he only wished things were different.

so much time chasing, to think the detective had found someone he seemed to connect with in such an unlikely way, a sense of deep understanding yet confusion he knew he never could see or find within another, and here he was lying through his teeth at his humble expression.

for the moment, he had the ultimate supreme leader in his finger with honesty, and it was only a matter of time before he figured him out.

ten minutes. give him ten minutes to go back and redo something, and shuichi would have never let kenji sit at that lunch table with him.

he wasn’t sure how he was going to live with himself.

Chapter 13: 13.

Chapter Text

just as far as his lie carried him, shuichi was tied to the deal.

every monday and friday he found himself at the will of kenji wrapping him into his grasp, keeping him in that room to “spend time together” while he just did the others assignments, much to the detectives hate, swallowing down and biting back whatever he wanted to detest or say as he inquired more, forced kisses that should have showed true feelings for atleast one of them, savouring every moment.

though shuichi knew better if he had to keep this act up until he could find a way to get rid of the photos and that hard drive, letting it happen and pass time, should there ever come a time he would find himself out of this horrible predicament, there was no turning back and curing of the disgust and wrong doings within himself.

between classes, he would find his solace interrupted as he threw an arm around his shoulder, leading them in a walk away together.

during lunch, he’d be pulled away to join other tables kenji was friendly with, and a knowing eye to be sure shuichi wouldn’t move away, conversations with his classmates that he would come in and interrupt, grabbing his hand and sweeping him away.

he didn’t understand how far a delusion could fester, but his misery grew with every day. barely anytime to himself to focus on his own academics, even his mind wondering at any other union meeting.

how long would it take kokichi to figure out his dirty lie? how would he react?

the very thought made him sick with burden.

“I didn’t think she’d be there with her girlfriend..maybe i should’ve arrange a double date.”

“maybe—?”

a tap to the shoulder and a smirk as kenji began to pull him from the conversation. “dorm room.”

and all he could do is smile at the others and walk away.

“back from your case, I see.” he spoke lowly in the dark of the dormitory halls, shuichi pushing past his fatigue. “I don’t—“

“c’mon.”

and went along as kenji pulled the detective to himself, sighing in stutters at a tired protest.

“mr. saihara! i won’t have any dozing off in my class!’” the teacher struck, shuichi’s jolting himself up from his half asleep state, feeling embarrassment claw all over his skin as the surrounding students made their glances.

“sidekick! how about side training tonight!?”

“I uh..” he found kenji’s careful eyes from where he stood across he crowded hall where he was speaking with two other students.

“maybe some other time, I have..homework i need to catch up on.” he confidently stated through a muttered sigh.

“hey..is it true?”

“hm?”

“you and kokichi…i mean, it must suck sharing a guy with the guy who drugged you. i’m really sorry to hear about what happened.” he didn’t say anything and went on his day bitterly.

“i’m surprised you of all people are with kenji around so much now.”

“yep..”

“i mean..keep your lifestyle out of people’s faces, i don’t care— i guess whatever makes you happy.”

“yep..”

it was the casual routine that went on and on for days. at this rate, perhaps he’d be at kenji’s word for the rest of his highschool career.

a moment of solace seemed to finally catch him at peace, so strangely. sat on the couch surrounded by his classmates, though despite the friendly air, something in kaede’s gaze as she looked over at her friend treaded slowly with concern. something boiling over the edge.

“you look exhausted, shuichi.” she finally said, a few glances looking over. he was quick to defend his stance, a hand wiping over his mouth as he cleared his throat with a chuckle. “I guess i’ve been overworking myself at the agency.”

“tell your uncle to give you a break then..you look like shit.” maki answered simply, like she always did without hesitation.

“yeah, seriously..you look worse than my mom after a night out partying.” miu decided to add, kicking her feet up on the ottoman as she stole a bag of chips from himiko.

the sudden attention that arose across the room out him off horribly, something he knew he needed to defend more properly upon seeing everyone’s eyes.

shuichi didn’t wish to look over more, though even kokichi who had decided that night to come down and join a class game night had his own intentions of staring intently at the detective just a few feet away.

something similar to a knife taking a stab to shuichi’s heart shot with tightness in his chest, quick to his defence despite a dry throat.

“I can’t exactly stop, I mean, truly— we’ve hand a bunch of perpetrators put away this past week and he’s enthusiastic with my help.”

“an experienced detective pushing forty can’t handle locking away criminals by himself?”

“kaede—“

she narrowed her brows significantly with a forceful tone. “i’m serious, you look like you haven’t slept in days, we barely see you around here and you…you’re acting off.”

he took in the force of her words, his hands limply resting on his lap slowly turning into curls with his fingers, tugging at the material under his fingernails. only someone paying attention that close could pick up on such a detail, someone like the leader, sat by himself on one of the couches.

“i can’t help but feel the party has something to do with it.”

“so it’s true then?” kaito spoke up, catching wind of kaede’s attention as he opened his mouth again. “is that why you and kokichi aren’t talking?” something froze over the air with intensity as kokichi slowly raised his brows.

“oh-hoho, of course someone as naive as you wouldn’t believe something you weren’t there to see..” kokichi scoffed lowly, imitating a bitter sarcastic tone at the foolery of his classmates remark.

“it’s posted everywhere on video, man.” he turns in his seat on the floor towards the leader. “i mean— kenji was super enraged about the whole thing when he came back to school and told everyone first thing.”

“are you fucking—“ kokichi dryly chuckled, a hand wiping over his face.

“kaito, that’s enough, it wasn’t kokichi’s fault. whatever happened to your whole thing about believing people.” kaede came to the defence.

“I..I know what my stances are, but with everything that’s been going on, you’d rather stoop to a liars level than listen to—“

“oh, ofcourse, because everybody loooooves and adores kenji soooooo much.” kokichi interrupted in a dramatic drawl, eyebrow twitching. “anybody else but his fault, yeah?”

“both of you, fighting won’t—“

“cram it, kiibo—“ he scowled. “obviously nobody could put two brain cells together and think about how easy shit is fabricate.”

kaito seemed to bite back slowly on his words, glancing away.

“even I have to admit, despite his antics, i don’t think that kokichi is nearly the sort of individual to use lies for…those purposes…no matter how absurd of a person he is.”

“still..kenji is a really convincing person, nyeh.”

“enough! seriously!” kaede calls out, finally, a sigh escaping her throat in distress. kokichi shaking his head.

“I’m not sure why kenji did what he did, but we also can’t move past why things have been the way they have been.” she turns to shuichi again, who solemnly had his attention elsewhere, on nothing in particular.

“a lot of us are worried, y’know..” tsumugi spoke carefully, adjusting at her glasses.

“I appreciate whatever care you all have, but i’m fine, really. extra time with the cases is just a bit tricky to manage.”

“shuichi—“

“which, speaking of, I should probably check with my uncle.” he stands from the couch, finishing his words in a mumble. “see if he needs more help later.”

and without looking back at the others, made his way out of the common room in a straight forward way. kokichi keeping his eyes locked onto the detective as he left, something in his expression shifting as awkward conversation moved across the room.

“maybe the weight of rumours just became too much?”

“i don’t see why kokichi isn’t showing much care, it’s not manly you won’t defend yourself.”

“oh, because you’re so much more of a man than I am?” kokichi tested, kaito tightening his fist up as he stood over kokichi at once.

“well i’m sorry that I put my beliefs in someone who doesn’t make their entire character to be a liar.”

“kaito—“ maki attempted with a sigh.

“and maybe we wouldn’t feel separated as a class if you didn’t punch kenji and let him take shuichi back like a good friend.”

kokichi stood, face still like a animal on the hunt. something burning deep in his eyes as his arms tightened, staring deathly into the others soul. kaito huffed through his nostrils.

“what’s your next move, tough guy? punch me down too? call me names because you’re too scared to talk about your feelings.”

“cut it out!” rantaro intervened, raising his voice up a notch as he shoved his hands between both of his classmates, kokichi stumbling back as he continued to stare down kaito dangerously, waiting. “both of you, seriously— acting like little kids isn’t gonna get us anywhere.”

“tell that to him.” kokichi scoffed, slapping away rantaros hand that lay defensively across the leaders chest, before taking his walk out.

“classic move, run away like always.”

he didn’t say more after kaitos last word, only staring back past his eyelids over his shoulder. though knowing better, kokichi finished his walk out of the common area and to wherever his feet took him.

for the longest moment, shuichi mindlessly seemed to watch at the condensed tiled walls, how the water painfully slipped down between the cracks and fell to join the rest down the floor drain.

it was way too hot for him to think straight, a fog taking over the atmosphere as the water kept hitting his back and all down like pin needles. eyes too leaden to keep open with his head pressed forward.

inwardly, he felt like dying, or maybe wanting to give into the sensation of wanting to poke his eyes out from how badly the pounding felt inside of his skull. he couldn’t help but continue to stand there, what other options did he have. if he went off about his own business, no doubt kenji would attempt to approach him, if he went back to his dorm, he’d have to face kokichi after the frenzy that was the common area.

stupidly enough, dealing with the sensation of burning water felt much more safe than either one. maybe at the rate he was going at he could confront his mother and father, come clean and explain in detail what exactly had been going on at school. they were detectives, he would have to come clean eventually had they found out about his academics.

“It was all my fault, mother, I went to that house party all on my own. I willingly indulged a drink that would put me in the wrong state of mind and I had full intentions on putting myself in a relationship with a male classmate. i’m dirty in the most raw way, mother, nothing that has happened can be undone. i felt the touch of another man, felt lips against my own. degrade me, push me to the ground and bring out whatever words you have for me next. there’s not possibility any combination of words in the dictionary to describe the horror of my being and how brutally disgusting I am. I’m ruined, so ruin what’s left in purity of my being and beat it down with all your hatred.”

anything would’ve been better than this.

even thinking over exactly the perfect image of how any other scenario would play out, his chest heaving.

the look of pure anguish and despair that reddened in their eyes, beating down with full row of clenched teeth.

had he detested any of kenji’s word, one meeting with the saihara’s and a mention of word and he was over.

“your son is an animal, miss, he threw himself onto me practically. spread his hands all across my body like some pansy, he was the one who made me comply.”

had he let anyone else find out, that wouldn’t help either.

“I can’t believe saihara would lie about something like that, kenji is a good guy, he would never.”

“any account of what happened doesn’t really qualify, they’re both boys, they can sort it all out with an arm wrestle.”

had he let kokichi find out…kokichi…

find out…about…find…out…out..

“I won’t let it be, it’s all of your sons fault for ruining my sons behaviour.”

“you’re calling off the alliance? at this rate we had been agreeing? you won’t dare be so daft.”

if…kokichi found out…

“even the most ‘honest’ person lied about something like this? how could I ever look at your face again.” or maybe something worse along those lines. he who showed care, had the softest look on his face hand that grin that followed across his lips.

his chest heaved, and counties to heave heavily, hands making their way up to his face. he couldn’t bring himself to be calm, not at a time like this.

he couldn’t afford to dry. don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry. it would echo off the walls of the shower room, someone outside could hear, he would be found out. he couldn’t let out a word of anything.

he cupped his hand as tight as he could around his mouth, pushing his forehead a bit further into the tile as his eyes shut for dear life, heaving out wrecked sobs that escaped him. slow at first, but more and more without control, and it only worsened.

everything seemed to always worsen. there wasn’t any going back and undoing the ruining of shuichi saihara, even if given ten minutes.

by the time he had left the shower rooms, it was some time past curfew, almost twelve in the morning. his skin ached, his head pounding, eyes drained of everything he had. all he wanted to do was lay down and forget anything ever happened. feel the fabric of his comforter pull him down and make him feel a little bit of solace. atleast he’d be alone, no doubt kokichi was off doing whatever.

with a soft open and shut and click of the door, he found himself in the dark lighting of the room. though just as he reached over to switch on the lamp by his desk for a bit of guidance to his bed, his heart nearly threw itself out of his chest at the sight of who was leaning by the bay window sill.

”miss me?”

he slowly narrowed his eyes in defense, taking a step back. a shallow breath escaping his lips in a murmur without response. the blonde put his hands up in defense.

”alright, I know, it’s pretty late for me to be here.”

”its the weekend…you’re breaking the deal.”

”is it?” kenji played unknowingly at first with big eyes, letting the silence uncomfortably sit in the air before clicking his tongue. “alright, ya got me— I can’t help if I miss seeing you around.”

”don’t start.” he muttered, fixing at his pajama shirt by the hem. kenji tilting his head with narrow eyes at the appearance of the other.

”jesus, you look like shit..someone make me have a breakdown or something?” he pushed his head upright again. “awh..don’t tell me you missed me that much. I mean I knew you had attachments but this is too cute.”

”get out.”

he slowly lowered his face. “excuse me?”

”I did your homework for the week and I did what you asked yesterday, and I for one exhausted..so leave.”

he crossed his arms as he teetered closer to the detective. ”oh please, you call a half assed make out session ‘hard work’? you want me to throw you a bone or something, I mean why do you think i’m here at this hour?”

he asked slowly, taking a note full look at the empty, messed up bed on the other side of the room. he returned to shuichi with a smirk. “and look at who’s not here..hope you’ve been keeping your pretty lips shut around him.”

”i’m not putting up with anything, that’s not a part of the deal so i’m asking you again to leave.” shuichi applied more firmly, despite how tired his voice undeniably was, making a gesture to the door behind him. “I’ll do whatever you ask of me on the times that apply, but I’m not putting up with anything right now.”

“that so?” he clicked his tongue.

”out.”

”hmm..” kenji began in a calm drawl, something in his face dropping significantly as he dug the heel of his sock into the floor, gaze following along. “yeah..alright..”

suspicious nonetheless though still having a moment of relief, shuichi kept on watching him. watching how he teetered his foot back and forth, like an old rocking chair. the silence frozen across the air adding to the suspense, despite the sudden compliance of the other.

”I don’t get it..” kenji suddenly begins, tongue dragging across the inside of his cheek as he looked at the other. “i thought we had something, shuichi. you looked at me like no other had ever before.”

he swallowed down a breath, listening to his confession.

”you gave me a chance like no other person ever did before— didn’t judge me for who i was, that i acted confusing or a little off, I thought that was something.”

”what..”

”just for you to stand before me,” another step closer with those painfully gentle eyes that contradicted the nature of his words. shuichi feeling his heels hit the back of the door. “and deny the nature of liking guys? you’re ridiculous.”

”you’re ridiculous.” shuichi spat out lowly. “why should I be at fault..because you can’t differentiate platonic and romantic?”

”I know how to differentiate and know lies from truths, maybe you should ask yourself the same question.”

”enough..”

”besides..” he took another good step forward, locking eye contact with shuichi that was borderline dangerous. “it’s not my fault your type is liars. but hey, very fitting for someone like you, yeah?”

shuichi’s face tightened up in disgust, shoving a hand at the other to push him back just to be moved back to the door with more force. he grunted and struggled, pushing at the others shoulders and chest with determination.

”anyways, if we’re all about telling truths here, id like to declare I never really got to second base before.”

he choked out a desperate grunt, moving his head away as kenji leaned closer. “and perfect coincidence, word around is you’re a virgin..”

despite that cold, dead feeling that ran in waves of chills across the detectives back, he didn’t give up his determination where he stood. taking one last account of how he was caged there, he balled his hand up and shot at the others throat in a quick, regretful punch, watching the other choke and stumble back onto the ground.

he gathered his breath shakily and fumbled the doorknob, throwing himself out of the room to leave and run like hell down the halls. in that moment of sweat developing the back of his neck and his palpating heart, he didn’t care how loud he was throwing his feet across the halls. he had no idea where he was going, but he sure as hell wasn’t going to stay there.

”shuichi! get back!”

he let out shaky breaths as he made the occasional shoulder turn back, noting how the other had managed to make his own run and catch up. he headed for the stairs, running down and not daring to look back despite the angry following steps.

that may have been the quickest he had run, way worse than any other criminal he was hot on the trail for catching. he wasn’t here what would happen if he caught up to him, but he sure wasn’t about it find out.

“fucking…got ya—“

and without enough time to think, he was being tackled down the next flight of stairs, grunts of pain escaping them both as they tussled awkwardly. shots of pain jolting through shuichi’s wrist and back as he took the bad land, nonetheless, still getting himself up, only for kenji to pull him down without mercy.

”give it up, shuichi— you’re acting way too brave..totally..not like you—“ kenji chuckled annoyingly through breaths, holding the other down on the landing before the next flight of stairs. shuichi coughed, holding his arms up as defense, blocking the other from whatever hits he attempted to land, heart racing much more violently than ever before as he struggled from underneath.

”c’mon..give it..up—“ kenji stares down at him wildly, grabbing a good hold of the detectives hair to yank harshly, hoisting a yelp of pain from the other as he held his arms down with the other free. he wasn’t sure what he was going to do next. his weight was practically holding him there and he has no clue of what was coming.

think..think..

“next time..you wanna lead someone on— give them a warning.” kenji spat cruelly and low, grateful their little tussle was muffled by the walls for the most part.

a clear shot just as the other began his forceful pull at his shirt. how close his neck was by him again. the idea was ridiculous? sickening maybe, but what other choice, he needed to get out of this.

”the throat is the most sensitive place next to the genitals for defense, so go for the attack if you’re in trouble.” he remembered his uncle lecturing.

locking his legs around the others waist for security and bringing his mouth close, shuichi bit down. it was disgusting, and a brutal moment he regretted every bit of doing as he felt the texture of his skin.

cry of pain from kenji despite not letting go still. harder and harder, he clung to that like he needed to, eventually feeling the gush of something warm and like iron coating his mouth and tongue.

finally with another violent cry, kenji pulled himself back and off, moving to cover the spot on his neck causing him distress. and shuichi finally pulled himself up and stumbled up straight, running down the stairs with adrenaline keeping him on his feet and the state of blood still on him.

he wasn’t sure what was going to happen next as a consequence for that, but until then, he kept running.

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Comments

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 1 Wed 28 May 2025 09:45PM UTC

was that..... a 505 by artic monkeys ref perchance..... 🥀🥀🥀

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 2 Thu 29 May 2025 12:27AM UTC

Shuichi is already down bad LOL I glad he tried to reconcile even if unsuccessfully though

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 3 Sat 31 May 2025 09:00AM UTC

Kokichi is jealous LOL I'm reading it wrong or is Kenji coming onto Shuichi?

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 4 Mon 02 Jun 2025 11:43PM UTC

Shuichi's parents are so hateful!!!!😡😡😡

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 4 Tue 03 Jun 2025 01:27PM UTC

my guy js got his ass whooped bro omg 💔💔

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 5 Fri 06 Jun 2025 10:41AM UTC

I wonder if Shuichi will find out about Kokichi's wound, his fall hit hard. Also I wonder if Kokichi will try to remain indifferent if he learn Shuichi is abused by his parents.

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 6 Thu 12 Jun 2025 12:47AM UTC

I'm happy Kokichi and Shuuichi are starting to get along now.

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 7 Sun 15 Jun 2025 09:38AM UTC

Kenji, graciously back off, even if Shuichi has the same preference while in denial this doesn't mean he likes you in that way! I hope he won't do something to Kokichi because he is jealous. To think Kokichi met Shuichi before their official first meeting. Shuichi, you got it bad for Kokichi!

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 7 Sun 15 Jun 2025 05:57PM UTC

KENJI NOOOO 💔💔🥀🥀🥀 thats literally my guy bro how cld u give him such a sad onesided crush like this i think an asteroid js landed on my head

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 04:54AM UTC

OHMT GOD. OHMY GOD. KENJI WHAT HAVE YOU DONE. KENJI. KENJI WHAT THE FUCK KENJI.

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 04:55AM UTC

kenji is abt to catch this fade WHAT HAVE YOU DOOOONNEEE 💔💔💔 shuichi's gonna be beaten to a pulp theres no saving him its so saiover

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 06:10AM UTC

I wonder what Shuichi will do now he realised his feelings. I knew it Kenji was a bad news!

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 9 Sat 21 Jun 2025 09:16AM UTC

I would love to see Shuichi's reaction to Kokichi being dressed up, but I'm afraid he is already in trouble because his parents... Sorry Shuichi but to say to Kokichi he is the same as Kenji was pretty insulting LOL

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 9 Sat 21 Jun 2025 02:56PM UTC

YAY HE TOOK THE KEYCHAIN TO THE PARTY (kick kenji out kick him out rn KENJI GET OUT)

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 10 Wed 25 Jun 2025 08:53AM UTC

Thank God for Kaede! There is no low Kenji won't sink. And I'm happy someone in Shuichi's friendship group now knows about Kenji, since Kokichi is a liar he can't act directly but someone as trustworthy as Kaede can advise Shuichi without being questioned.

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 11 Thu 26 Jun 2025 06:22AM UTC

I hate you Kenji!!! 😡😡😡😡

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 11 Fri 27 Jun 2025 08:03AM UTC

OHMY GOD WHAT THE HELL. ough. br. im abt to body kenji IM JUMPING HIM. i have so many things to say and no words. KENJI WHAT THE FUCK 😨😨⁉️⁉️

Last Edited Fri 27 Jun 2025 08:04AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 13 Sat 28 Jun 2025 08:31AM UTC

Shuichi you are naive, Kenji wouldn't keep his side of the deal when he had complete control over... Well better rebelling than letting himself being raped... If his parents are monsters he should have ask help to his uncle... I get you are afraid to disappoint and being hated by Kokichi but at this point you don't have any choice. Kenji needs to be stopped.

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sssooup111229 on Chapter 13 Sat 28 Jun 2025 09:40PM UTC

papa me want more movie

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Summary:

Chapter 1: 1.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: 2.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: 3.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: 4.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: 5.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: 6.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: 7.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: 8.

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Chapter 9: 9.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: 10.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: 11.

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Chapter 12: 12.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: 13.

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 1 Wed 28 May 2025 09:45PM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 2 Thu 29 May 2025 12:27AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 3 Sat 31 May 2025 09:00AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 4 Mon 02 Jun 2025 11:43PM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 4 Tue 03 Jun 2025 01:27PM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 5 Fri 06 Jun 2025 10:41AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 6 Thu 12 Jun 2025 12:47AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 7 Sun 15 Jun 2025 09:38AM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 7 Sun 15 Jun 2025 05:57PM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 04:54AM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 04:55AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 8 Thu 19 Jun 2025 06:10AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 9 Sat 21 Jun 2025 09:16AM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 9 Sat 21 Jun 2025 02:56PM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 10 Wed 25 Jun 2025 08:53AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 11 Thu 26 Jun 2025 06:22AM UTC

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kagesai_nnie on Chapter 11 Fri 27 Jun 2025 08:03AM UTC

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Rinfantasy on Chapter 13 Sat 28 Jun 2025 08:31AM UTC

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sssooup111229 on Chapter 13 Sat 28 Jun 2025 09:40PM UTC

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