Yosuke's POV:
"Not bad, Hanamura," Suzuki nods, handing my cell back.
"Hot, right?" I grin.
"She's got that spark in her, yeah."
"Believe me now?" I scoff.
"Eh, suppose," he shrugs.
"Can't believe you thought she was a catfish, man."
"You hear these stories all the time," he reasons. "Plus, you thought so, too, otherwise you wouldn't have investigated."
"That's—"
Okay. Fine. Yeah. Whatever.
I just wanted to triple check, I guess.
"Hey, uh... Next semester starts tomorrow, right?"
"...Yeah?" I furrow a brow.
"Got it. I'll tell your dad to start stocking up for that. Head home, Hanamura. You did good today."
~~~
Yu's POV:
"Thank you for helping me out, Narukami-kun," Yukiko smiles.
"Anytime," I shrug.
"We won't have long before the kitchen staff come back," she warns. "So we'd best hurry."
"I'm sorry, you want to cook something?" I splutter.
"Wasn't that obvious?"
Standing in the inn's kitchen, it should have been.
Wow, she's bold.
"Look," she grins, opening the cookbook. "It says here that we should—"
"Actually, I really need to catch up on my summer homework."
She crosses her arms, unamused.
"O-Or I could just stay here?"
"Okay," she smiles.
~~~
Yosuke's POV:
"That looks hard," Teddie sighs, head on my shoulder.
"Go... do your chores, or something," I mutter, pushing him off.
"But I'm bored," he groans. "I wanna go to school, too."
"You can't," I scoff. "And, believe me, you wouldn't want to."
"I wanna see Sensei all day," he pouts.
"You know what?" I snap. "If you're so interested in Yu, why don't you ask him out?"
"Ask... Sensei out?" He repeats, as if trying to process it.
"No, dammit," I grumble, shaking my head. "Look, Teddie. I really need to concentrate right now. Go find someone else to bother."
"Ask... Sensei out," he murmurs to himself.
"Don't even," I snap.
"Hey, Yosuke? What does it mean to ask someone out?"
"It doesn't matter."
"I'll see you around!" He smiles, wandering himself off.
~~~
Yu's POV:
"Well?" She urges. "What do you think?"
"It's, uhm..." I swallow the... sticky ball whole, afraid to let it brush along my taste buds.
"Uh-huh?" She leans forward, eager for my reaction.
"W-Well—"
"Yukiko. You have a guest," Chie groans, opening the kitchen door, Teddie following close-by.
"Oh, Teddie!" Yukiko exclaims. "This is wonderful! You can—"
"Hey, Sensei?" He asks.
"...Yes, Teddie?" I wipe my mouth clean from that awful-tasting rice ball.
"Can I ask you out?"
"Woah, what?" Chie scoffs. "I- I didn't know you wanted to see him for that!"
"T-Teddie," I cough.
"Yosuke said I should," he frowns.
"Yosuke-kun? Oh, you must be mistaken," Yukiko chuckles softly. "He would never do that."
"But, he did," he mutters.
"He's repulsed by that sort of stuff, Teddie," she shrugs. "I'm sure he was only teasing you."
Repulsed.
The word rings through my mind.
He can't be, though... Surely not. I mean, we're still friends; he can't be that freaked out still...
"We're working on it," Chie sighs.
"Huh?" I ask.
"First thing's first, we gotta make him see eye-to-eye with Kanji-kun. Then he'll be a natural."
"A natural at what?" I scoff.
"Y'know," she says. "Dealing with it."
"What, dealing with being around people like—"
I cut myself off, feeling the word 'us' almost slip out.
"Yosuke-kun's not a bad person, Teddie." Yukiko pats his blond head. "I swear it."
"So... Does that mean I can't ask Sensei out?" His lip quivers. "But... But Sensei is so cool and charming and—"
"Yuki?" The door opens once again; a member of the kitchen staff poking her head through. "Are you almost finished?"
"Oh, yes," she nods. "Sorry about that."
I guess we're going now...
~~~
Yosuke's POV:
Dammit, Teddie... Don't tell me he's actually gonna go through with it...
I didn't even mean to say that. Yu was just on my mind, is all.
...And the thought that he loves me. For some freakin' bizzare reason, he does.
And it makes me feel like the bad guy.
I mean, what the hell, right? It's not my fault.
He needs to get ahold of himself... Of course I care about him but—
Yuna18: Are you still here?
Shit.
JunezPrince2000: ye lol
Yuna18: Is something on
your mind?
JunezPrince2000: nah dw abt
it
Yuna18: You can tell me,
you know.
Yuna18: Is it because school
starts again tomorrow?
...Eh, that could work as a good enough excuse.
JunezPrince2000: ye
Yuna18: Don't worry so
much about it.
Yuna18: It's just another
day.
JunezPrince2000: but we wont
be able 2 tlk
Yuna18: Of course we will.
Yuna18: Just not as often.
JunezPrince2000: that sounds
like hell
JunezPrince2000: wish i culd
drop out
Yuna18: Aren't you glad
you at least have your
friends there?
JunezPrince2000: ye but
JunezPrince2000: theyre not u
I smile, just imagining her cute little face lighting up.
Yuna18: They must be so
lucky to have you.
JunezPrince2000: damn right
they are
Yuna18: Listen, I've got to
go.
Yuna18: I'll talk to you
tomorrow?
JunezPrince2000: u bttr
JunezPrince2000: see ya
I scratch the side of my nose before sending one last text.
JunezPrince2000: i luv u
She's already offline, though. That only makes me more giddy.
"I did it!" Teddie announces, swinging my door open.
"Eh?" I frown.
"I asked Sensei out!"
I blink. "As if."
"I did!" He pouts. "I didn't get a reply, so I'm assuming it was a yes."
"Whatever," I scoff.
"Ooh! Smoochies with Sensei!" He grins.
"Oh, fuck off," I groan.
And I'm not saying 'fuck off' necessarily to the bear. It's because now all I can think about is the taste of Yu's lips and how much of a great freakin' kisser he is.
Dammit.
"I'll need some lessons," he chuckles. "Can we watch one of your romance movies?"
"What!?" I scoff. "Dude, I don't watch romance movies. I'm not a girl."
"Huh." He heads over to my drawer. "I could have sworn—"
"Okay! That's enough!" I scramble to my feet, blocking his path. "Go watch some online and get outta my face."
"Gotcha," he smirks. "Maybe I could even practice on you, Yosuke!"
I stare at him, mouth agape.
"Kidding!" He cackles. "Geez, Yosuke... As if anyone would want to kiss you!"
"Well, actually—"
Okay, Yosuke, now's not the time to boost your own ego.
Teddie trots himself back into the closet and I am so glad I don't have to deal with him until morning.
~~~
Yu's POV:
I've been up all night, reading and rereading that text.
But I won't believe it.
I know it's true but... I can't.
He can't love someone who isn't real.
All I have to do is ignore him and hope he forgets about the message, too.
"Why didn't you wake me up?" I mutter.
"Because," Adachi chuckles, letting down his cup of coffee.
"And where's Nanako?"
"She's already set off."
"Alone?" I scoff.
"Yeah?"
"Adachi-san, there's still a killer on the loose," I snap.
"That's—"
"Enough," I grunt. "If anything has happened to her—"
"As if I'd put her in that kind of danger," he says. "She left with her friends. A group of... five, if I remember correctly."
"...I guess that's better than her being on her own."
"See? Don't worry so much."
I turn to face him, laying on the couch. "Don't you have work today?"
"Oh, nah," he shrugs. "It's my day off. And I was wondering if you wanted to stay at home today, too."
"What?" I splutter.
"The past week has been tough," he sighs. "I get that. If you need a break, just let me know."
"I—"
Buzz, buzz.
"You gonna get that?" He asks.
JunezPrince2000: One image
attachment.
JunezPrince2000: cant wait
to go back 2 skool 🥱🥱
I smile a little.
It's only an angled photo; his jaw and the left side of his body.
It makes me wonder if that's what girls actually like.
Yuna18: Cute.
Yuna18: Now show me
your whole face.
JunezPrince2000: no freakin
way
JunezPrince2000: 2 many ppl
around
JunezPrince2000: ill look like a
total nerd
Yuna18: So what?
Yuna18: I think you're
perfect.
JunezPrince2000: geeezzzz
JunezPrince2000: okok fine
JunezPrince2000: 4u
"Narukami?"
"Yes?" I quickly snap the cell shut.
"I won't tell your uncle."
"...Did you know he woke up?"
"H-Huh?" He stammers. "Who told you?"
"Does it matter? You didn't."
"I didn't want to worry you."
"What about Nanako, huh? All she ever wanted was—"
Buzz, buzz.
Dammit, Yosuke.
"Listen. I'm sorry, alright?" He mutters. "I should have. I- I know that, but..."
"But nothing," I sigh. "I'm heading to school."
"Narukami..."
"There should be a microwavable meal in the fridge," I say. "Have it for lunch. I, uh, really gotta go."
I head out the door, cell in hand, heart pounding.
JunezPrince2000: One image
attachment.
Holy shit.
He's got his perfect crooked smile; his perfect chapped lips; his perfect pearly whites shining against the sunlight.
His hair casts a light shadow across his forehead, and I know he's insecure about it.
His eyes are bright—full of hope and joy and... love.
He's staring at the camera. And it feels like he's staring into my soul. And I can't look away.
The guilt is eating me up inside.
Without realizing, I bump into someone. I quickly get up off the ground, offering them a hand.
"W-Watch it," Naoto grunts. He readjusts his hat, looking up at me. "Senpai?"
"S-Sorry," I cough. "That was... entirely my fault, yeah... I'm sorry..."
He takes a moment to consider before taking my hand, hauling his thin body back to his feet.
"Oh, that's right," I sigh. "It's your first day, isn't it?"
"Yes." He brushes his uniform down. "Actually, I'm glad to have run into you. I, uh... quite obviously don't know anybody at Yasogami High. Excluding yourself and Kanji-kun, of course."
"I get it," I nod, picking a leaf off his shoulder. "And... About yesterday, Naoto, I really am sorry."
He sighs. "It was rather an uncomfortable situation for me."
"I can't apologize enough," I mutter. "I was out of order."
"You both were," he scoffs. "There's just no need to hold grudges, now, is there?"
Is there not...?
"Anyhow. It's forgiven," he murmurs. "What was so interesting, by the way?"
"Hm?" I frown.
"On your cellphone."
"O-Oh." I quickly pocket it. I feel like he can feel the guilt emanating from me.
"...Is everything okay?"
"Y-Yes," I clear my throat. "A-Anyway, we should go... We don't want to be late, right?"
~~~
Yosuke's POV:
"Woah, Yosuke-senpai," Rise giggles, looking over my shoulder. "She's beautiful!"
I try not to blush as I smile. "She is, huh?"
"So... This is your girlfriend, Yosuke-kun?" Yukiko says, putting a hand on my other shoulder.
Geez, with all this attention from the girls, I should be ecstatic. But... I only really care about Yuna...
Dammit, I'm turning into a sappy bastard, aren't I?
"Hrm... Wait a second!" Rise gasps. "Look at the restaurant in the background!"
"Huh?"
I squint my eyes. Sure enough, the photo is set outside of some restaurant in Tokyo. I've never paid it much mind, though. I don't see what the big deal is.
"Udatsu Sushi!" She grins. "Haven't you heard of it?"
"I have," Chie shrugs. "Apparently the sushi there is super good. Also... Super expensive."
"What about you, Senpai?" She turns to Yu.
He looks back up at us, completely dazed as he takes his chopsticks from his lips. "Hm?"
"You lived in Tokyo before, right?" She presses. "Maybe you've even met Yuna-san!"
"I- I don't think that's likely," he splutters, looking back to his food.
...Damn. Is he jealous...?
...I don't want him to be, but he's gotta know I'm nothing like him.
"Are you sure, Senpai?" Kanji butts in. "I swear you've mentioned it before."
"...For real?" I raise an eyebrow.
"He has?" Chie frowns. "When? And why not to me!?" She folds her arms, turning to Yu. "That's it. You're gonna take me there as soon as we've graduated."
"He knows all about that place," Kanji smiles. "In fact, he's such a regular there that he gets discounts just for the company he keeps!"
"Now that's impressive," Rise giggles.
"I- I don't think so," Yu mutters.
"Why don't you tell them, Senpai?" Kanji nods. "And I swear you've mentioned a girl that looks similar to her before..."
This must have been his breaking point 'cause now he stands up and storms off the roof.
~~~
Yu's POV:
What the hell is he doing!? After everything I've done for him, he's just gonna give me in like that!? In front of everyone!?
When I finally lift my head up, I see Naoto stood outside a first-year classroom.
"...Hey," I croak.
"Good evening," he smiles. "You look awfully spooked, Senpai... Is everything alright?"
"Of course," I cough. "Have you had lunch?"
"Ah, yes, I've just finished," he nods. "Do you have some time to spare before next period?"
"S-Sure. I can—"
"...Actually, there's something I think you should know."
"Oh?"
"Some of my peers were... gossiping about you."
My throat runs dry. "What?"
"About... Well, you know. The incident with a Dojima-san."
"How would they even know?" I whisper.
"Well, it's public knowledge such a well-known detective here has been hospitalized. The reasons for it are mere rumours, is what I'm trying to explain. Or at least, that's what people are saying."
"What sort of rumours?"
"Overdose, accident, attempted suicide..." He sighs. "Some even caught on that you're involved."
I hold my breath.
It was inevitable. I did it, and I have to face the reactions.
"Something like... You drove him to it. Or... You caused this, in some way or another."
"...I appreciate the heads up," I swallow hard.
"I wouldn't tell you if I thought you couldn't handle it," he says softly.
I smile a little. "You're a good friend."
"Th- Thank you, Senpai," he splutters.
"Hey, Narukami!"
I turn around, quickly shaking off our former conversation.
"Hey, guys."
"Everything alright?" Kou asks.
"Uh, yes," I nod. "Thanks."
"Heard some stuff about your uncle," Daisuke whistles. "Sorry 'bout that, man."
"It's no worries," I shrug. "Not your fault."
"...I should go," Naoto mutters.
"Hey, don't go on our account, new kid," Kou chuckles.
"No, I just remembered that I have to make a phone call outside. If you'll excuse me." He swiftly makes his way out of the conversation, leaving me with the athletes.
Usually, I wouldn't mind, but today is different.
I've already had Kanji to worry about and I don't need these two worrying so much.
"...If you don't mind me asking, what happened to Dojima-san?" Kou asks.
"You idiot." Daisuke punches his shoulder. "You can't ask shit like that."
"I- I was just worried," he scoffs.
"Don't lie," he sighs.
"I don't understand," I frown.
"Some girls in his class were asking about you," Daisuke explains. "Kou thought it was the 'manly' thing to do to get them their answers."
"I see," I grunt.
"Th- That's not it at all!" He snaps. "I do care! Honest!"
"You know, I think I better go," I mutter.
"No, Narukami, please!" He begs. "C'mon, man. We're friends! I care. Of course I do. I'm willing to listen."
I swallow hard, backing myself against the wall. "I appreciate it, but—"
"I don't want this to ruin our friendship, man," he sighs. "I won't even talk to those girls. You have my word."
"Hey, back off, alright!"
I blink, looking past the two to see Yosuke come to my aid.
He places himself between me and Kou, who was slowly getting closer to me as he spoke, and pushes him back. "Enough, Ichijo."
"Yosuke," I sigh. I try to get him to hear me out, but his voice overrides mine; as usual.
"He doesn't owe you anything, alright?" He continues. "So beat it."
"Well, aren't you just his guard dog," Daisuke scoffs.
"The hell did you say to me!?" He snaps.
"We were asking because we care," he says. "Didn't need you to get all protective over him."
"I'm not," he grunts.
"You remember what he said about you?"
"Daisuke, not helping," Kou mutters.
"Whatever." He backs off, leaving Kou in his dust.
"...I'm sorry, man," he mumbles. "I... I am." He quickly trails after Daisuke, not even looking back.
I sigh, moving in front of Yosuke to see him properly.
"What are you doing?"
"...He said I was your guard dog," he mutters.
"...So?"
His eyebrow creases, but he tries not to let it show. "...Kanji's a dick."
"Where did that come from?"
"I know he's the reason you walked out earlier," he sighs. "I yelled at him. Chie did, too, but... Not as much as me."
"I don't think anybody could yell at Kanji more than you."
He stifles a laugh. "Are, uh... you okay?"
"I'm fine."
"...I hope you and Yuna can meet one day."
"...Huh?"
"I think it would be really good," he smiles. "My best friend and my girlfriend. What more could I need, right?"
I nod slowly.
Other than your best friend is your girlfriend. What's worse, your girlfriend isn't even a girl.
"I brought my lunch down, so... Let's go eat in the courtyard," he says.
"What about the others?" I ask.
"Like I said," he grins. "My best friend and my girlfriend."
What more could he need, huh?
To get a best friend that isn't fucking with him, and a girlfriend that exists, is what he needs.
~~~
thanks for reading:)
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