Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

"Kaito, it's fine, I can catch the phantom thief myself. I'm fine." I tell my friend. Kaito, my best friend, is trying to help with my case about this criminal I'd been chasing for 3 months now. You'd think I would have caught him by now, but he always manages to get away last minute. My first major case and I'm already failing. Ugh....

"Are you sure? We could help, and you don't have any leads as to who he is behind the mask or where his base is located." Maki states. I sigh, knowing I probably won't get it figured out without help.

"Okay, you guys have a point, but how exactly are you going to help?" Kaito puts his hand on his chin, appearing to be in deep thought. "Well, we'll start.... by going that way!" He exclaims, pointing to the forest right next to us. Why did I think he was going to suggest something more impactful and important?

"So, just going home? How does that help?" Maki asks him. He just shrugs. Maki, Kaito, and I live together. Sometimes they treat me more like their child than friend, but I don't mind. It's fine, even with being the third wheel most of the time.

"Well, this isn't a great thinking spot, so come on! Let's go!" Kaito exclaims before running into the forest. We follow.

After a while, Kaito suddenly shouts, "Ow! What the hell?!" He's rubbing a spot on his head. "What just hit me?" I look on the ground to see an acorn by his feet. Wait, an acorn? Why are acorns falling?
Then, another one falls. Then another. And another. Lots of acorns are falling on us. As we look around in confusion, I spot a tree and look up at it. I notice it's definitely the source of the acorns, but what's causing them to fall? I inspect the tree closer to see what looks to be a person in it. Why is someone in a tree? Kaito and Maki seem to notice too, as they're both looking at it.

"Hey! Come out and show yourself! Face us like a man!" Kaito yelled at the branches. Miraculously, they shook and leaves fell. Then, the person who was previously throwing things at us was hanging upside-down from a branch and facing us.

"Jeez, you don't have to yell at me. What's your problem?" The mysterious person said. They have feminine features, but they sound like a guy. They also appear to be quite young. Our age, maybe a little younger? Wow they're really attractive...

"What's YOUR problem?! Maki, I think this girl's crazy." Kaito seemed to be pissed at what this girl(?) said. She(?) seemed outraged.

"Excuse me?! Did you just call me a girl? A CRAZY girl?! You're the one who's crazy!" The boy(?)'s eyes are wide in anger before he(?) closes them. He(?) crosses his arms and pouts, turning his(?) head away from us.
Kaito's expression changed from angry to confused, "You're a boy? Oops.." His emotions quickly changed back. "Well, you shouldn't have thrown things at people!" The boy turned to look at him, only to laugh in his face. This only made Kaito angrier.

"What's so funny? You should learn what 'respect' is before I beat it into you!" He raises his fist as if to try and make that threat seem like a promise. Maki pushes him aside, as his aggression isn't working.

"Okay asshole. Why are you throwing things at us?" She glared at the smirking boy.

"Because I'm bored, duh!" He was giggling like a child, which only deepened the tension. I clear my throat before stepping forward to get more information out of him. "What's your name?" I ask him. Those beautiful purple eyes look into mine, and we just look at each other for a few minutes. I wasn't expecting to get into a staring contest with someone who threw acorns at me and my friends, but I guess things just happen anyway.

"Well? Aren't you going to tell us?" Maki asks, bringing our attention to her instead of whatever that was. Honestly, I'm glad. He just laughs at her question. How many times has he laughed at us again?

"You'll have to guess! But I think that'll be hard for Mr. All-Bark-No-Bite! His skull's too thick to figure it out!" He insulted, making said Mr All-Bark-No-Bite's face go red with anger. His girlfriend shoots a death stare at the boy wearing a childish grin and a familiar looking black-and-white checkered scarf too. "That's going to take too long with how many names are out there. You're aware, yes?" Maki presses. The grin stays on his face. I may not know him well, but what I do know is he isn't going to tell us. We give each other a look that says we need to discuss this further. Hopefully, the one we'll be discussing doesn't run away.

"Excuse us for a moment?" He nods before his expression changes to a blank, pondering one. We move a few feet away from him to talk.

"Should we beat the information out of him?"
"No, he seems too dedicated to hiding it. Besides, I don't think hurting him is a good idea."
"No offense, but you're way too nice."
"What? I don't see how, but okay. What should we do about him?"
"Punch him!"
"That doesn't involve violence."
"Awww, but maybe we should give him a nickname!"
"Are we children? He's not our friend. We should let him go-we've only known him for 15 minutes and he's already getting on my nerves."
"Mine too, but he might be helpful!"
"I agree. As annoying as he is, he might have information that'll be of use to us. Regardless, maybe there's more to him than meets the eye."
"We understand that you didn't have friends before us, but you shouldn't have so much hope for people. Like I said, we haven't known him that long and I already don't like him. End of discussion."
"Not yet, babe!" Kaito says, scruffling Maki's hair, making her face a light shade of red.
"Okay, fine, we won't let him go yet." She responds, playing with her pigtails.

"Superstars! Now, what should we call him? You name kids when you adopt them, right?"

"No, you don't. That's when they're first born. That doesn't matter because we're not adopting him, alright?" She explains. Is she talking about literally in particular or is she including the friendship way too?

"I mean, I wouldn't mind all that-" I try to add before Kaito cuts me off.

"Come on, Maki-roll! We have to refer to him somehow! He won't give us his name, so we have to give him another one! How does that sound?" He proposes.

"I guess that's fair. What should it be?" She replies. His facial expression tells us both that he hasn't exactly figured that out yet.

"Um, well...." He pauses before yelling, "I don't know! But I, Kaito Momota, Luminary of the Stars, will find out!" Knowing him, it won't be 'normal'.

He thinks for a while before speaking, "What do you guys think of 'Squirrel Boy?'"

"You realize he's a human, possibly a child, right? A regular, annoying, human being." He looks at her in confusion, almost as if asking what's wrong with the suggestion.

"I wouldn't be so sure he's a human like us, maybe a squirrel devil child! That would be awesome!" He excitedly yells, getting an eye-roll in response from his girlfriend.

"Not really. The nickname's fine, but I don't think dealing with a demon would be very fun." I add. Maki nods in agreement.

"Alright, fine, let's just go tell Squirrel Boy the news!" He exclaims, running over to the boy. He points his finger in his face, "Hey. Listen here. You're coming with us and your name shall now be Squirrel Boy. Got it?"

"Excuse me? Why would I go with someone as loud and obnoxious as you? And SHE's soooo aggressive, so I would never try to demean myself just to gain nothing in the end!" He argues. Then, as his gaze falls on me, his tone changes from passive-aggressive to flirtatious, "Don't take that to mean I don't want to see you again, though.~" Wait, how old is he? His age would change a lot...

"Because we're adopting you! Now come on!" He answers, both not realizing that it was a no and ignoring any comments he just made about all of us. 'Squirrel Boy' then proceeds to loudly, mockingly laugh at Kaito, whom looks confused on what was so amusing.

"You think *I* would let *you* adopt *me*? Seriously? It really shows how utterly *STUPID* you are! How old do you think I am? 7?" He spits between laughter. That's honestly a good question. It's hard to tell, considering his soft features, height, and mischievous attitude contrasting with his sense of independence and voice. I'm hoping he's our age, if I'm being honest.

"Um, a kid? What kind of question is that?" Kaito yells at him. (Please stop yelling.) The laughing briefly stops for a moment before starting up again, but even louder. Based on his reaction, I'm assuming he's older than that.

"What's so funny? Aren't you?" The only interpretable response he gets is a head shake.

After a few more minutes of guesses, Kaito finally manages to learn that 'Squirrel Boy' is-in fact- our age. Around 20-22, to be more specific. "Wow! You fiiiinallyyyyy got it! For an idiot like you, I'm impressed!" He giggles, angering Kaito for at least the fifth time today. He's really annoying...

"Okay, enough of that. Would you please come with us? We just need to ask you a few questions. You can leave and go on your own way afterwards, no adoption. Deal?" I offer, attempting to get somewhere with him instead of going in circles.

He chuckles, "You're cute, but you're not *that* cute." What does that even mean? "Anyway, I have somewhere to be! Buh-bye!" He jumps down from the tree, attempting to escape. Before he can skip away, Maki grabs his arm.

"You're not going anywhere. You're too suspicious." She demands in a threatening tone, giving him a glare. Unfortunately for her, he appears to be unfazed.

"Jeez, aggressive much? At least this isn't that boring... But like I said, I've got somewhere to be, so," He tries to get away again, but fails. He laughs awkwardly before sternly demanding, "Let. Me. Go."

"Hey, we just need you for something, alright?" We'll let you go after, I promise." I tell him, trying to convince him not to run away. He smirks and turns his attention towards me.

"Oh, Shuichi, whatever could you need me for? You're not typically someone who would ask for help from someone like me." He responds, voice firm yet drippingly sweet. Combined with his gaze, he's making me feel a certain way that I'm not sure if I like or not. Wait a minute...

"How... do you know my name? Who would normally ask for your help?" I question, my voice shaking as if I'm scared or nervous. If anything, I'm confused and slightly intrigued.

"What, you're acting like you don't know who I am? The guy who breaks into your office to send you love notes all the time? Rude!" He half-shouts, sounding offended.

"What love notes? I've never gotten anything like that, what are you talking about? Tell me the truth, how do you actually know my name?" I inquire.

He sighs, "Dang, and I was soo convinced people send you those all the time-good to know you're single. Fine, I just know you because you're such a famous, skilled, handsome detective! You're the one chasing the phantom thief, yeah? Leader of D.I.C.E.? You're good, but not good enough to beat him. You should just give up while you still can!"

"Are you trying to distract me? You realize that won't work, right?" I ask him. He just blinks at me, so I try again, "We aren't going to hurt you. We just want to ask you some questions about D.I.C.E."

"Well, too late now, huh?" He replies, glancing at Maki. She scoffs.

"I'm sorry for her tight grasp, but you can't pretend that's my fault. We just want to know what you're doing here, and then we'll let you go, alright?" I tell him. He opens his mouth, but someone else speaks before he can.

"I thought we were going to ask about that slippery guy you can't catch?" Kaito asks. I almost forgot about that.

"Yeah, you should! I loooove talking about my uncle! He may appear all cool and mysterious, but he's such a doormat! He's so lame, my other one's better." Squirrel Boy exclaims.

"There is no way your uncle is the one we're looking for! I mean, what are the odds?" Kaito responds.

"I agree, that's quite the coincidence. You're lying, aren't you?" I question.

The boy laughs, "Awwwww, man! You got me. Did I mention I'm a liar?"

"No, you didn't. It makes sense, you seem a lot like one." I tell him. He's certainly strange-he seems to fully lean into lying and is rather proud of it.

"What?! I hate liars! I hate them with my whole entire being!" He yells in response. Huh?

"Are you lying again?" I ask him.

"Yeah. So, you gonna ask about him, or what?" He responds. As much as I would love to get a lead, I'm not in the mood to hear whatever nonsense that'll come out of his mouth.

"No, I don't need a headache right now. Maki, let him go." As soon as she loosened her grip, he runs away. He's really fast, especially for someone of his size. I really hope I never see him again.

Chapter Text

I walk into the coffee shop, looking for my friends. As I do, I spot one of the baristas looking at me intensely. Before I can question her about it, Kaito calls me over. "Yo, Shuichi! Over here!"

Right as I get to the table my friends are sitting at, Kaito stands up and hugs me. I blush a little, slightly flustered by the sudden affection. "Ah! Kaito, I'm glad to see you too." I gently say. Kaede, our other friend since high-school, waves at me with a pretty smile on her face. If only she knew...

"It's so nice to finally meet with you all again! I missed you!" Kaede happily says. We haven't seen her in at least 2 months, due to her being busy with piano. She lives on her own because not only did she want to be independent, but also because she would need a lot of space in order to chase her dreams. I really wish she lived with us so we could see her more often, but we respect her decision anyway. She's really lovely, kind, accepting, talented, encouraging, outgoing, confident, and overall an amazing person. She's nearly perfect; that's why I have these feelings for her. I hope that one day, I can work up the courage to confess to her. But today isn't that day. I have to wait for the right moment, later.

"Yea! It's been so long! How's piano been? Did you somehow get even better at it?" Kaito inquires.

"It's been great! I performed on a stage, and everyone was clapping! I've never been happier!" She replies. "What have you been up to?"

After catching up and talking for a while, Kaede says she needs to tell us something. "I have something important that I want to share." She looks like she can barely contain her excitement. "I have a girlfriend now!" Even though my heart feels like it's been shattered into a million pieces, I force a smile onto my face and congratulate her. Kaito and Maki congratulate her too, asking when they can meet the lucky girl.

"Oh! She's here right now, actually! Everyone, meet my girlfriend, Miu!" She excitedly says as a blonde woman in a revealing outfit comes over and sits next to her. She seems so happy with her...

"What's up, fuckers? I'm Miu, the lucky, gorgeous girl genius!" The woman yells loudly. What does Kaede even see in her?

"Nice to meet you. I'm going to go get a drink, I'll be back." I say, trying to contain my heartache and annoyance. I stand up and walk over to the lady at the counter, ordering the same black coffee I always do. The lady looks me up and down, making a "hmm" sound as she does. I don't know what's up with her, but I'm not very fond of this odd behavior.

After paying, I sit back down and drink my coffee, pretending to listen to the conversation. All of a sudden, Miu points at me, "Hey, you've been acting weird. You thinking pervy things 'bout us? Is that why you wear that emo hat of yours?" Excuse me?

"What?! No! I just don't have anything to say, that's all!" I defend myself, but she isn't convinced.

"Uh-huh. Why do you look so bitter, then? Explain that!"

"It's just that the barista is creeping me out with her staring, that's all!"

"Yeah, right! Are you that desperate that you want in on our relationship? Well, it ain't happening!"

"Whoa! I know my sidekick, and he would never! Maybe you're the perv!" Kaito says, jumping to my defense.

Thankfully, Kaede stops the argument,"It's getting late, we should go home. It was nice being here! Bye everyone!" Each of us hug her, even Maki. I hug her the longest, not wanting to let go. I missed her so much, I don't want to let her go so soon. But, since I have to, I do.

On the walk home, Kaito speaks up, "You okay, bro? You look sad."

"Yeah, I'm fine. I just... wish that was me."

"Oh, that... I know how you feel about her, so I get how you feel. Hey, maybe the relationship won't last that long! I mean, do you see how insufferable that woman is? Kaede will soon see how much better you are for her, and then she'll break up with Miu!"

"I'm not so sure about that. You saw how happy she was, didn't you? We should be happy for them, too." Maki chimes in. I hate to admit it, but she's right. We should let Kaede make her own choices in life and let her be happy. We shouldn't get in the way of that, even if it hurts to watch.

"She's right, we shouldn't pray for their downfall just to get the outcome WE want. We need to consider her feelings and wants, too. If what she wants to be with Miu, we shouldn't get in the way of that. I'll get over it eventually if it means she can be happy." I state.

"Okay, but I'm still rooting for you two to be together instead."

I lay on my bed, unable to sleep. My sadness is taking over me, my emotions. Why does this feeling hurt so much this time? Considering this has happened before, it should hurt less instead. No, it actually makes sense. I actually thought I had a chance with her, that she might've liked me back. I'll never find someone as amazing as her in my life, I might as well give up on love. I might never fall in love again.

Chapter Text

I wake up, immediately craving coffee. My thoughts and reflections about my life had kept me awake for a few hours. What if my questions never get answers? What if I can't move on? What if I die as a miserable failure? What if... What if.. What if! My mind is plagued with intimidating possibilities. I know it's really selfish, but I just wish that was me instead...

"What are you doing up?" A voice says from behind. I turn around to see Maki standing there. She looks like she woke up recently, considering her attire and messy hair.

"Huh? Oh, hi, Maki. I just.... Couldn't sleep I guess. Why are you awake?" I sleepily respond.

"I heard some noise, so I went to check it out. You should really be more careful." She explains, gesturing to the (thankfully empty) coffee pot I must've dropped on the floor. When did that get there?

"Oh? It must've slipped out of my hands while I was trying to get a drink. I'm sorry, I can-" I start, reaching to pick up the pot.

"Stop. You'll just keep failing. Let me help." She interrupts, also placing her hand on the pot. Her hand is harshly grabbing onto mine, her blood red fingernails practically digging in my skin. (Her nails are just painted that shade of red, she's not bleeding)
She moves our hands to (clumsily) put the pot into the maker and starts brewing. We wait silently, not separating our hands. It's oddly comforting-in a therapeutic kind of way. Maybe I should start spending more time with her?

"There. It's done. Since we're up already and it's almost 7, would you like to pour a cup for me too while I prepare breakfast? I like a drop of cream in mine." She proposes. I agree and get out two cups and a glass. Kaito is more of a juice, protein shake, and energy drink guy than a coffee person, so I'm making him a glass of orange juice instead. I pour two cups of black coffee, also pouring a drop of cream in one of them. Despite all the third-wheeling, living with these two is actually kind of nice. Anyone would be able to tell that we all deeply care for each other, including...her... I almost forgot about...that..problem...

"What's wrong? You look upset." Maki suddenly points out, snapping me out of my thoughts. Even with her usual deadpan face, she looks a little worried-concerned, even. Is my facial expression that awful?

"Nothing's wrong, everything's fine. Don't worry about it, Maki." I respond, putting on a weak smile.

"It's about Kaede, isn't it?"

"..."

"It's going to be okay, Shuichi. I believe you will eventually find someone who will reciprocate your feelings. You're a kind, smart guy after all. There has to be someone out there that will love you for who you are. But you have to accept that it's not her." She comforts, placing her hand on my shoulder. I fall towards her, clutching the back of her top. She hesitates for a moment before eventually patting my back. "Hey, be careful. I still have to finish cooking. Will you help me? .....Please?"

"*Yawn* Good morning! How'd you two sleep?" Kaito says as he walks in and takes a seat at the table. His hair and body are still damp after his morning shower. As he tells us about his plans for the day, he puts his feet on the table, annoying Maki.

"Get your feet off the table. It's rude."

"Aw, but babe!"

"Off."

"Ok, jeez." After he obeys her request, she places down his breakfast. He immediately digs into it, mumbling what sounds like "Thank you". This is the life.

"I could go to the park and read on a bench while you two go out, if you'd like." I offer. Kaito was planning to take Maki out on a date to an amusement park today, leaving me by myself.

Kaito shakes his head, "You could come too! Making sure nobody interfered or something!" Oh.

"No. He can't come on our date, we can hang out with him another day. I can protect us just fine." Maki objects.

"But-"

"I'll be fine on my own, and so will you two. A date isn't very romantic if you have company, right?" I add.

"Yeah, I guess you have a point." Kaito admits, sighing. He grabs Maki's hand, taking her to the car. As they walk over, we wave and say goodbye. I go back into the house to grab my things after they drive off.

I decided to walk to the park instead of driving to better enjoy the scenery. I typically stay inside and read when I'm not spending time with my friends, so this is a great opportunity for me. When I get there, I sit on one of the benches and open my novel to start reading. In the middle of a page, a hand suddenly pushes it down.

"Hey, can you not? I'm-" I begin, but I cut myself off when I look up and see who's standing there. It's *him*. That mysterious boy from the forest. What is he doing here?!

"Hmmm? How else am I supposed to get your attention when you're soooo invested in that nerdy book of yours? What are you reading, anyway?" He asks, moving beside me to get a better look. He squints, likely judging me. "Of course you would be interested in the crime genre."

"What's that supposed to mean?" I ask, annoyed. Why can't he just go away and leave me alone already?
"I didn't say it was a bad thing, just that you're a crime-obsessed nerd. Like those loser girls who watch true-crime!" He exclaims. "Okay, that's a lie, you're actually kinda hot when you're all focused like that~" I don't have time for this.

"Oh, that's... That's not..." I clear my throat. "What do you want?"

He giggles, "Hey, hey, I just wanna talk! Since your friends are sooo mean to me, I decided I had to get you alone!"

"Then talk." I demand. He's really getting on my nerves.

"Okay, okay! Jeez..." He says. "Anyway, I just wanted to say that you seem like an amazing ally! I'd like to recruit you into our little group~"

"What group? Wait, are you asking to be friends?"

"Wow, you catch on quick! Who wouldn't want to be around someone as sweet and intelligent and oh-so-cute as you~!" He flirts. I hate to admit it, but he's really cute. His appearance reminds me of a certain celebrity...

"I... can't say I feel strongly one way or the other. Perhaps we could have a proper conversation first?" I answer. I can't exactly trust him yet-I want to keep some sort of distance. On the other hand, I have to admit that he piques my interest. He's like an elaborate mystery that I feel like I have to solve. Maybe I should take his offer...

"Fine. But~ I'm soooo busy, maybe later!" He turns to leave, but then stops in his tracks moments later. "Oh! Another thing, 'The King' is planning to strike tonight. Be on the lookout~"

Good to know.

Chapter Text

That night, I went to the usual rooftop and watched from above. As expected, I saw those mischievous clowns spray-painting graffiti on the wall of a nearby bank. The leader turns and notices me staring. Based on his movement, I assume he's laughing or giggling maniacally, like he always does. He always acts like an evil overlord. I turn to leave to arrest the group, but I stop when I hear the sound of boots landing on the roof.

"Going somewhere?" The leader teases, swaying side to side. His attire consists of a clown mask, a (mostly) white suit, a checkered necktie, a white top hat, a dark purple and black torn cape, white gloves, and long, black boots. While it isn't exactly what I would go for if I was a criminal, I have to admit that it does look nice.

"I was going to go down to arrest you, but now I don't have to." I respond, reaching for my handcuffs. He just made this so much easier.

"You'll have to catch me first, Mr. Detective~" He says, running past me. I run after him. When I got close enough, I reach out and grab his cape, causing him to fall. "Agh!"

I walk over to take him down, but he resists, "Not so fast." He crashes his foot into my ankle, making me fall and let go. "Ah!"

"You're at my level now, heh." He pants, standing up. He pulls out a rope and leans down. I grab his arm, pulling him back down. He falls like I predicted, except what I didn't expect was where he would land. He falls right on top of me. Crap. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! If you wanted my attention so bad, all you had to do was ask~" My face gets even redder, making me so flustered to the point where I can't even think of a rebuttal. Ugh, I hate him so much, and yet... I have a deep desire to find out more about him. Grow closer, even. He makes me feel things that no one else has. It's so complicated and strange. I almost like it. Almost.

Neither of us move, likely out of embarrassment. We both have a massive opportunity in front of us that we don't take. A few minutes later, we slowly stand up. He reaches his hand out to me, offering it. I temporarily toss logic aside and take it. He pulls me into a dance, moving slowly. Unfortunately, I can't dance-I almost fall over multiple times, but he holds me up. He's stronger than I thought. Strong, yet surprisingly gentle. This feels like a soft breeze compared to the usual storm between us. I almost want to get lost in his arms-an endless feeling of comfort and warmth. It's almost as if I was transported to another world of peace and enjoyment that I never want to leave.

"...This is nice." I say, trying to make this a little less awkward. He nods, seeming to not want to break concentration. What I said was far from a lie, he was great at this after all. It's somewhat peaceful like this. A part of me doesn't want it to end, but I try to ignore it.

"My loyal subjects are waiting for mwah, so I have to depart. See you in a week, Mr. Detective!" He says all of a sudden, spinning me around before releasing. He can't be leaving already, can he?

"Wait!" I reach out to grab him, but he's too quick this time. What is wrong with me?! Why didn't I take the chance to put him behind bars?! I could've had him! No, I can't just sit here and think about what I should've done. I have to think about what I can do right now.

I return home and record the encounter with him tonight. Upon reliving the memory of being so close to him, my face gets slightly warmer. I write down, "I had made an extremely awkward mistake that night. I'm not sure what I thought would happen, but I had done it in an attempt to prevent unexpected, possibly nefarious behaviors." Looking back on it, he was likely trying to tie me up, so I guess that's a positive for that incident. Still, it wasn't exactly 'fun' to be so vulnerable like that. Another thing of note is that I feel slightly divided on him now, especially since I saw this new side to him. I saw him as human for the first time instead of this evil villain he presents himself to be. He's really unique, huh?

Chapter Text

I'm lying on my bed, staring up at the ceiling. I think about everything that's happened recently: The rooftop encounter, the Kaede situation, the mysterious boy... Speaking of "Squirrel Boy", as Kaito decided to call him, I have so many unanswered questions about him. Why was he in that tree? What does he know? Why is he a liar? What is his relationship to D.I.C.E.? Who is he? I have no clue if I'll get any answers the next time I see him, and I'm not fully sure I want them. After getting him to tell me all he knows about the organization, I won't need to see him ever again. He's incredibly odd, and kind of annoying. However, he looks really familiar-almost like we met before the tree incident. It might just be that he looks like a certain adult film star that I've grown to be infatuated with. They do look like they could be closely related, even... It's a little odd...

"Hey, Shuichi, are you coming?" Kaito calls from the living room, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Yeah, just give me a minute." I get up and walk over to where he and Maki are waiting eagerly. Okay, Kaito is excited, while Maki looks like she couldn't care less.

"I'm sorry I made you guys wait for me," I apologize. "Where are we going?"

"To a club I heard a lot about! There's a big party there tonight, and you-and Maki-really need to get out more!" He answers loudly.

"What?! We don't have your social skills! There's no point." I try to reason, but he won't listen.

"Oh come on, there's going to be plenty of pretty girls there! Maybe you'll find one that'll be into you~!" It's pretty clear that after realizing Kaede is unavailable, he wants to find a new girl to ship me with. I'm not sure how to feel about that.

"Kaito, neither of us can form a proper conversation. Unless other people having to come up to us is part of your plan, this is a terrible idea." Maki explains.

"It's gonna be fine, don't worry about it! Let's just go!" Kaito reassures, dragging us out the door.

The first thing I notice upon entering is the loud music blasting from the speakers. Taking in the rest of the scene, there's a bar and dance floor that people are enjoying. The walls are soft pastels, which is a nice contrast to the bright, colorful lights all over the building-being most prevalent in the main area. Everyone else is engaging in activities like drinking alcohol, talking to other party-goers, dancing, getting into fights, kissing, and other things that I'd prefer to ignore. Despite most of the people here appearing to have fun, this doesn't look like my scene. Maki looks like she wants to leave as well.

Noticing our reactions, Kaito reassures us again, "Come on, guys! This is your chance to get out there and meet new people! Now's the time to get out of your comfort zone, let loose, and have fun!" Without waiting for a response from either of us, he rushes inside to start partying. It's a struggle, but he manages. He drags us all the way out to the dance floor as well. He's the only one out of the three of us to start dancing.
Bored, I look around to find something to do. During my search, I spot "Squirrel Boy" standing by the bar with a large group of people. Suddenly, what seems to be his friends start laughing-I assume he told them a joke. Remembering my last talk with him, I decide to walk towards him.

"Whoa, never expected to see you here! You getting tired of reading boring ass books all day, like a nerd?" He says as I approach. Even though I'm sure that's meant to be an insult, I can't help but take it as a compliment.

"My friend made me come. I didn't really want to, but at least we got the chance to talk again." I respond nervously.

"Awww, I'm happy to see you, too! Did you want to talk about the conditions of being my friend?" He giggles. It's kind of annoying.

"Hold on, I don't know enough about you to want to be friends. Even if I did, what kind of "conditions" would there be?" I inquire. Why would a friendship be conditional?

"That's too bad, I was so eager to invite you into our group. Oh well!" He says, ignoring my question. I assume he'll answer when I do take his offer.

"I hope you'll save that eagerness for when I like you more. Right now, I can't help but become slightly irritated anytime you speak." I respond, colder than intended. I don't mean to be harsh towards him, but he is incredibly aggravating.

As he opens his mouth to respond, someone else speaks instead, "Yo, sidekick, why're you over here? Come back to the dance floor, I found someone you should meet!" I turn around to see Kaito behind me, realizing I forgot to tell him I was going to do something else.

"Oh, sorry, I was in the middle of something, actually. I'll go over when I'm done, okay?" I tell him. Despite my dislike of him, I'm interested in talking with "Squirrel Boy". I'll have to find something else to call him, this nickname is too weird.

"Wow, are you guys stalking me? Just because I stalk your work doesn't mean I'll let you stalk me casually like this!" The very expressive boy shouts, crossing his arms. "Not cool!"

"We didn't even know you were here! If we did, we would've gone somewhere else!" Kaito yells at him.

"Just admit it, you're obsessed with me! Especially your friend there~" The mysterious jokester laughs. Ugh...

"Alright, let's calm down and not talk about this. You two need to separate, come." I intervene, gesturing for my friend to come with me. Scoffing one last time, he follows me.

I stay behind even after my friends leave, deciding to try to talk to The Jokester alone. "Hey, I wanted to talk with you more. Will you come over here, please?"
"Hmmm, fine, but make it quick. I'm a busy man, you know?" He replies. Well, it's better than nothing.

"Thank you. First question, what were you doing in that tree the first time we met?" I ask, starting the interrogation.

"I had to hide after running from some pesky cops that were trying to take me away from my family." He replies dramatically.

"Let me guess, this is one of your lies?"

"Yup! Man, you catch on quick! Next question!"

"Alright, what do you know about the criminal organization D.I.C.E.? More specifically, any information about the leader that you have?"

"What makes you think I know anything?"

"You're wearing their signature black-and-white checkered scarf. You have to at least know somebody who has knowledge on them."

"Ugh, fine, I'm a big fan of theirs."

"Ah. Wait, where'd you even get that scarf?"

"They have merch, duh."

"That doesn't exactly answer my question. Where do you buy said merch?"

"I don't know. Why do you ask? You want some?"

"...No."

"But it searching might help with your investigation~"

"I guess I'll consider. Do you know anything else?"

"Nah-da."

"Okay. Just two more, then you can be on your way. Are you ready?" I pause for a moment. "They're about you."

"Ready as I'll ever be!"

I clear my throat, "Why do you lie so much?"

"Lying is life! It's in my blood, my nature, my soul!" He laughs manically. "Oh, you want a serious answer? Well, basically... You can do anything with lies. You can make up something blackmail your enemies, get out of a sticky situation, or even just tell a funny story that didn't even happen! All for the fun of it!!!"

"Got it. Last question before you leave, who are you?"

"Your worst nightmare." He answers in a creepy tone. His facial expression is NOT helping.

"Haha, very funny. Answer properly." I sarcastically reply.

"Ugh, you're no fun! *sigh* I'm actually a spy for D.I.C.E.!"

"Really?"

"No! That was a lie!"

I sigh, "...I'm done with this. Thank you for your time. Good bye." I head home without waiting for a response. I shouldn't keep my friends waiting for too long, anyway.

Chapter Text

It's been a while since D.I.C.E. struck. 2 months to be exact. That's why I wasn't surprised when it was brought to my attention that they recently robbed a jewelry store. I can hardly believe it, but I *almost* missed them. Almost. So, when the leader left me a note trying to meet up on the store rooftop to "dance", I immediately prepared myself. No matter how strange he may be, I need to get as much information as I can about him. I need to keep this game of ours going until his clown organization gets taken down. I need to prove myself to Kirigiri.

As I drive to the spot, I suddenly remember the last time we danced together. I tried to stop thinking about it, but I couldn't after I had already started. I didn't want to think about the complicated way he made me feel that night. Before, my feelings on him were clear and simple to me. Now... Now I don't know anymore. It's so complex in way that I can't understand. I'm supposed to hate him, not desire to be closer to him. I can't feel like this. I. Can't.
I can already see him leaning against the railing, waiting patiently. I clear my throat as I approach him to notify him of my presence, "I found a note requesting to meet here. Based on the hand-writing and wording, I'm assuming it was you?" I say as he turns around, still holding the railing.

"Ah, Mr. Detective! What a surprise!" He exclaims, tilting his head slightly. This fake clueless attitude doesn't work on me.

"Cut the crap, you knew I would come." I coldly retort. He makes a sudden noise that sounds like a suppressed chuckle. I don't get it.

"No, no, no. I don't know anything." He lies.

"Yes you do. Don't play dumb with me."

"It seems the detective has seen through my tricks. Oh well," He sighs. "Fine, I invited you here because I wanted to see you again after last time~"

Although I feel the same way, I'm not about to let him know that, "I see. What's your game this time, Joker?" I had felt the urge to call him *something*, and that was the first thing to come to mind.

Suddenly, the criminal is practically in my face and gracefully moving around me, "Wow, comparing me to the Joker? How bold of you!" He laughs, excitedly bouncing around as he continues. "I just need to take what's mine and I'll be on my way. Give me the moonlight crystal." He holds out his hand, demanding the precious jewel.

"That's it? If so, you called the wrong guy. I don't have it, but if I did, I wouldn't give it to you." I say, standing my ground. He stops moving for a second.

"Oh, really? Tell me who does. I don't care who I have to go through, I'm getting that gem." He says, his tone rather determined and...desperate?

"I don't know anything. You'll have to search for it at a later- Agh!" I begin, cutting myself off when he grabs my tie and pulls me closer to him. I, embarrassingly, start to blush. I really wish I had my hat right now...

"You've gotta be kidding. I need it TONIGHT. Not tomorrow, not next week, NOW!" He says, voice louder than normal. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't slightly intimidated.

Satisfied by this reaction, he starts laughing and pulls away, "Oh man! Did you seriously fall for that?! Fucking hilarious!" It was all a lie? My face is still red, except it's out of frustration. Did he seriously invite me here just to mess with me again? Why?

"Is this why you wanted to meet tonight? To joke around and lie to my face?" I ask, my voice giving away my feelings.

"Oh, Mr. Detective~ You know I love playing with you, right?" He says, moving closer again. "We're just getting started."

After a lot of back-and-forth arguing lined with weird innuendos, we finally get to the point of meeting up at this place, on this night, at this time. At least, I think we do. "I just thought that if we were to have a conversation, it should be at our usual spot, done the night after my precious minions and I took a few pretty things!"

"What is so important that we need to talk about it under such circumstances?" I question. He tilts his head to the side and makes an exclaiming motion with his hands, palms facing me(I don't know how to describe it otherwise).

"Your weird obsession with me needs to be stopped. Like, do you not see the problem in tracking my every move? Following me everywhere I go? Looking into every choice I make? Kinda creepy if you ask me." He states, phrasing it like I'm a some crazy stalker and not a detective doing his job. I'll admit that I would likely be convinced if I didn't know the context behind everything.

"You clearly don't understand my intentions. I do all of that to know how I can take you down. I just have to be patient." I defend, tightly grabbing one of his wrists. I have no idea what I was trying to achieve by doing this, but I immediately regret it. Not enough to let go.

"E-eh?! What are you doing?!" He yells, his tone revealing that I caught him off guard. For once. I'm almost glad.

"Be quiet. I just.........wanted to dance with you again. Sorry." I say quietly, loosening my grip.

"Hmph! And here I was thinking we'd be a lot friendlier by now, bu apparently not." He sasses, moving his hand down to hold mine. It feels just as nice as last time.

"Of course we wouldn't be friendly, I'm supposed to arrest you and you're supposed to evade my attempts." I remind him, trying to be as civil as possible. He gently pulls me along, moving slowly this time.

"That- Ugh, we clearly can put that aside for short periods of time." I move along with him, keeping up with his steps.

"It appears so. I guess we don't have to be at each other's throats all the time." I try to take the lead by starting the next move, but he jerks us in the opposite direction. I really need to stop messing around.

I'm about to spin him around to capture him, when one of the other D.I.C.E members calls for him. "Welp, gotta go! Keep up the good work, though!" He says, flicking my tie and pulling away before he slides down the rope. Wow.

Later that night, after I return home, I sit at my desk and work since I can't sleep. The problem with it is half of my attention and focus is on the papers, while the other half is on my relationship to the Leader. He's right, we don't have to be hostile towards each other. We shouldn't exactly be "friends", of course, but we should be at least semi-civil. Maybe then, he'll cooperate with me even more than he did tonight. Maybe that'll lead to me finally able to capture him. Maybe, after he's been taken down, we could become close. Maybe, we'll even... No, I'm getting ahead of myself. I need to focus, and it's not like he'll suddenly change his ways. I should sleep.