Untitled

Thank you for letting me know.

A/N 1 - Hello folks. Another short fanfic for ShinRan, cause I have withdrawals of this lovely couple.

A/N 2 - Do let me know what you guys think about it.

A/N 3 - The images used are NOT mine. All the credits to the original artists

ENJOYYY!!!

*****

Shinichi glanced at his watch.

I still have ten more minutes till I meet up with her.

It was quite a chilly and a cloudy winter afternoon and him and Ran had decided to meet up to go for a New Year's shrine visit.

They were soon going to be third years, and life was going to change tracks as they would officially become adults, followed by pursuing careers, which would change so many dynamics in their lives.

However, a vague sense of unease and discomfort was nagging Shinichi. It was more of a reality staring at him and his growing realisation of how many times he had been lucky in taking down the black organisation.

It had been a few weeks since he had returned to his 'normalcy' but he had received quite multiple warnings and heads-up for his future.

The FBI operatives were the first ones to warn him about his whispered name in the underworld.

It was followed by a very grave warning from Mizunashi Rena-san,

"However it turned out to be young detective, you were terribly lucky that you found them first rather than them hunting for you."

She used the word 'hunt', if that was not the hard slap of truth, then Shinichi did not know what was.

This word had sent a chill down his spine, especially after fully uncovering how ruthless and cruel the black organisation truly was.

In hindsight, so many things had coincidentally worked out for him that it was almost laughable.

A drug which was supposed to kill him shrank him instead, the first person to discover his identity did not reveal it to the organisation, moreover, she ended up using the same drug for her own escape and become one of his greatest allies.

Then the other person who deduced his identity was Vermouth, who kept his secret intact.

So many undercover agents were revealed to him, who all turned out to be extremely valuable and trustworthy allies.

In all honesty, for the majority of his showdown, the ball was in his court. It was the black organisation who were dealing with a concealed enemy, a fact that Conan took full advantage of.

"As you are a minor, no official report has your name and contribution."

"We will not be including your involvement for your own good."

"Even without that, please know, how truly grateful we are for your support."

Amuro-san, Mitzunashi Rena-san, Jodie-san James-san and even Akai-san's mother had vowed to keep his involvement a complete secret.

"Young man, believe me, crossing the threshold of organised criminal organisations at such a young age will be far more painful than you can even imagine."

"We have lost too many loved ones in the process already."

"The guilt and the pain are far too heavy to bear. I do not wish for someone as young as you to go through it."

Shinichi had agreed with their words, he had a proper cover of Edogawa Conan and even the name of Kogorou Mouri to shield himself and his loved ones from lethal dangers but things will be far more different now.

"However, your name is already quite well known my dear silver bullet-kun."

"Be sure to protect your precious angel."

Shinichi felt suffocated as soon as he recalled Vermouth's last words, the warning of her words was far too real and omnious.

Ran.

'Childhood friends' was a safe lable for them at that time.

But now, it was 'Girlfriend', 'Lover' and eventually 'Fiancée', 'Wife.'

There was already a target on his back, but now, because of him, Ran will have one too.

The panic and the unease in his chest just kept increasing.

"SHINCCHIIIII"

He jerked up and looked in the direction of the voice calling him.

His heart responded faster than his brain.

The scene in front of him pulled him in a trance.

The clouds had cleared up to let a few beams of sunlight pass through, and through those shining beams of light Ran came jogging towards him.

Her eyes were shining, and a joyous smile had lit up her entire being as if she had blended with the soft, warm winter sun itself. She was wearing a thick white coat jacket with a red scarf and her matching red gloves, which were the gift given to her by him. As she ran her hoodie fell back, freeing her inky black hair, which was a stark contrast against her coat and the snowy backdrop in general.

"Don't run, you can slip and fall," Shinichi called out worriedly as he moved towards her.

Ran just giggled and, on reaching him, without slowing down, threw herself in his arms, burying herself all warm and cozy.

She was on time, but the moment she saw him waiting, a wave of joy washed over her and for some reason, she had to clear this distance as soon as possible.

Although slightly surprised and elated, Shinichi automatically hugged her back.

Bliss!

"This is my apology. I am warming you up, since you had to wait in the cold for me," said Ran, burying her face deeper in his chest.

"Silly girl, I didn't have to wait for long," said Shinichi as he fixed her hoodie back on her head to keep her warm.

Although it reminded him of the time when Ran had waited three hours in the snow, outside his home for him.

He felt a distantant pang of that painful moment and hugged Ran tighter.

Not just that, Shinichi's mind simply kept racing through different scenarios where Ran would become the main victim of any dangerous situation he encounters.

There would be people watching, observing and studying her movements to find weaknesses, blind spots, and locations she would frequent. Of course he knew Ran was strong and could fend for herself but having to deal with systematic organised criminal syndicates who would have no rules in harming her.

The prospects terrified him. What could he do to always protect her? What steps could he take to keep her safe? Things he could do so as not to disturb her peace.

Am I the danger to you Ran?

Do I have to go away to keep you safe?

NOOOOOO!!! Absolutely NOT!

Not this. Anything but this.

Even the thought of it felt like a death sentence to Shinichi.

However, this time, his mind failed him; instead of calming down, his panic inflated, he kept thinking of the worst possible scenarios.

In the future, if they are in different places, pursuing different careers, following their own paths and some other opportunistic unlawful syndicate takes advantage of this distance.

No place, no cafe, no convenience store, no neighbourhood will be safe.

He recalled how conveniently the black organisation would set up snipers Korn and Chianti in the middle of the day in the busy streets of Beika City. They had managed to assassinate Tequila and Pisco without leaving any traces. They had even cause a bomb panic in a freaking hospital, rigged an entire train coach with explosives just to get rid of Haibara.

All these actions were done by them without even knowing that Kudou Shinichi himself was the enemy in the dark. Had they known about his survival?

It would have been a catastrophe, like the time they had immediately mobilised to assassinate Occhan on the slightest suspicion.

His name was being whispered in the same abyss, from 'the silver bullet', his name was now referred to as the 'silver hunter', 'lethal silver.'

The warnings were a sugar coat; they were simply a reality check that Kudou Shinichi was no longer capable of living the life of an ordinary citizen. The target on his back was bold and clear.

His righteous self was up and ready for this challenge but what of his heart? His beloved?

He obviously couldn't just choose to randomly appear and disappear, go into hiding as he pleased and lie about himself.

The act of 'Edogawa Conan' was not something he wanted to put Ran through ever again.

He was scared.

"Shinichi?"

What if he loses her?

"Shinichi??"

I can't hurt her again. Never again!

"Shinichi~ Are you listening to me??

Shinichi gasped and loosened his hold on Ran. He pulled back but didnt let her go.

Ran looked up to him. His face was quite pale and serious, but his eyes showed a rare trace of fear and vulnerability.

Shinichi looked away, unable to stand the weight of her gaze

He took a few deep breaths to calm down.

It's still fine.

I am here, and she is here with me too.

Suddenly he felt warm hands applying gentle pressure at the sides of his face which slowly brought him face to face with Ran.

"Look at me, Shinichi," Ran whispered softly.

Her gaze was gentle yet steady.

His mind stilled. All the panic, paranoia which was raging like a storm, clouding his judgement had now simply surrendered to the warm blue eyes in front of him.

"Shinichi, please listen to me very, very carefully." Her voice gentle and cooing

"I will always choose you."

Her thumbs drew small circular patterns on his cheeks.

"You are all that my heart yearns for."

"Wherever you are, no matter where, I will be there too."

"Take me with you wherever you want to go. No matter how far, no matter how distant, if you are there I will be there too."

A slight rosy hue had painted her cheeks, her eyes were unburdened and joyous, her voice, although shaky with emotion, was clear and reassuring.

The moment stilled in time for both of them. Shinichi was flooded with emotions he could not identify.

He exhaled a deep breath and hugged Ran again, but unlike the previous hug, which taut and full of anxiety this hug was warm, soft and cuddly.

In the sea of emotions, he was finally able to pinpoint gratitude but Ran's words and actions were the highest form of mercy on his heart.

He pulled back and rested their foreheads together.

Only three words were coming to his mind.

The words were so long-drawn, overused, and repeated so many times that they did not even feel meaningful; however, that was all he could say to Ran.

"I love you."

Ran smiled back warmly and a tiny snow flake landed on her nose.

Ran looked up to see that the sky had gotten gloomy again but it had started to snow.

"First snowfall of the year, that too seeing with my precious person." Ran giggled as Shinichi put her gloves back on her hands.

"No, leave this one," said Ran, pulling back her left hand.

Shinichi looked puzzled as Ran looked at him cheekily, but then a light bulb went on in his head.

He entwined his hand with hers and pulled it into his coat pockets.

"Let's go, Ran."

*****

A/N - Once again, the image is not mine. All the credit to the original artist.

A bonus ShinRan pic caue I thought it fits with the theme of the chapter :)

A/N - Hello. Another short shinran fanfic cause as always I miss them. This is sort of set in timeline when ShinRan were in Junior high. When Shinichi had a game and they lost in PK rounds in the semi finals.

There is a OVA episode called flower of Fantasia about it, this time line is mentioned in the Koushien case and also in the 16th DC movie - the 11th striker.

A/N - It has been inspired by an image I found on pinterest.

A/N - Do let me know your thoughts and comments!! and as always please forgive me for the grammatical errors.

"It was a good game everyone."

"Thank you captain."

"I can see that everyone is hyped up for the game coming in 3 days."

"Keep up the spirits and we shall play with no regrets!!!," said captain Toonoka in his usual hyped and motivated voice.

"Yes captain!!!"

The team, even though exhausted by the day's practice still responded with enthusiastic fervour.

"Thank you for the good work!!"

The soccer team shouted in unison and the two opposing teams bowed down as thanks.

"Dismissed."

"Oi Kudou, Hama, Inoue stay back for a few minutes." Toonoka called out.

The rest of the crowd dispersed as the four people and the coach stayed back.

"Well, I had some first-years run around to gather some more information regarding our opponent of the first match. "

"A few key players to mark and a few recordings of some of their games."

"Go through the video of the recorded game, though I do not think we need to make any changes in our current play style for this match but have a cursory look."

"Yes coach!"

"We can do the reviews at my home today." Shinichi offered.

"Yea, sounds good to us."

"Lets quickly get changed and head to Kudou's house."

The three guys were well respected in the team for being quite level-headed. It was no secret that Kudou was an insane soccer fan but since he was very good at analysing things he was an excellent strategist. Similarly, Hama and Inoue were all rounded players who also had good inputs.

It was fairly common for the soccer club guys to crash at Kudou's house to watch matches and hang out in general, well he did live in mansion which also had an excellent home theatre system. It was perfect to watch matches, movies etc.

As they walked towards the locker room they passed by a few guys from the basketball club.

"Man that was one strange accident."

"I know right!! To think a stay baseball would end up shattering the indoor gym window and at the same time the tempered glass basketball hoop would end up shattering like that."

"Did anyone get hurt?"

"Apparently some one ended up getting caught in the shattered glass shower."

"Eh? Who was hurt?"

"I think it was Mouri from class 4."

Shinichi froze in his tracks.

"EEHHH?? How is it Mouri, the captain of the Karate club?? Of all people how did she get hurt?"

"I dont know there was some sort of commotion."

"Excuse me," Shinichi interrupted.

"Please let me know when did this accident happen."

"Ahh just a few minutes ago, I think Nakamichi-kun from the basketball club took her to the infirmary."

"I see, thanks."

"Captain, you guys, go ahead to the changing rooms, I will join you guys in ten minutes." said Shinichi and dashed towards the infirmary leaving the guys staring at his back.

"Arn't Kudou and Mouri-san childhood friends?"

"Yes, they are, since kindergarten apparently."

"EEhhh for that long."

"Ah"

"But do you think he likes her?"

"I am not sure. But it is Mouri we are talking about? Who does not like her."

"...."

"...."

"...."

"But they have been friends for so long, he has an advantage."

"You idiot, childhood friends are the ones who end up being the furthest apart in such times. First of all, because the person is so close it becomes difficult to distinguish if you like them romantically or not and then if the other person does not return your feelings it is impossible to go back to being friends."

"Followed by, what if the feelings are just a misunderstanding just because the other person is of the opposite gender. It's a lot more complicated than it seems." Toonoka finished with a self-satisfied, righteous expression.

"...."

"...."

"So captain how many shoujo manga have you read exactly?"

"You- You guys!!! how dare you talk to your captain like that!!" Tonoka said, aghast and gave the guys a chase.

"Ohhhh the captain is not denying it!!"

"Hama! Inoue! Be quite otherwise I will shave you hair off!!"

*****

Shinichi had no idea at what time had he started to run. His mind attempting to deduce the severity of the accident.

"Hey you! No running in the corridor! Also why are you wearing outdoor shoes inside the school building?!?!"

"Gomen sensei."

Shinichi stopped immediately and took his shoes off and started running again.

"Heyyy I said no running in the corridors!!"

"Gomen sensei, it's a medical emergency," Shinichi called out without turning back.

****

Shinchi was almost there when he heard some voices coming from the infirmary.

"But even so thank you so much for protecting Aki-kun."

"Don't worry about it. I am really not that badly hurt."

That voice is Nakamichi and ....Ran's voice...

"And I already got first aid as well. So don't cry Aki-kun."

"RANN!!"

Shinichi stopped by the door frame, panting heavily but analysing the scene before him.

Ran was seated on a stool and gently patting the head of boy who clearly looked like an elementary school kid. His small face was flushed and eyes were wet with tears.

Nakamichi was sitting front of her who was tyding up the first aid box.

"Shinichi...."

"Kudou...."

They both started as six pairs of eyes stared at the out of breath, sweaty teenager who was for some reason holding his sports shoes in his hand.

"Did you get hurt Shinichi?" Ran asked slightly surprised and concerned on seeing his dishevled state.

"No I just heard you were in an accident so I..." Shinichi could not finish the sentence now suddenly quite embarrsed by the situation.

"Onee-chan got hurt because of me." came a small sniffling voice.

"Aki-kun its not like that. I am quite glad that you are okay. And see onee-chan does karate so I am quite strong." Ran said, reassuring the child attemting to lift his spirits.

"Who is this and what happened exactly?" Shinichi asked, walking inside the infirmary.

"Aah this is my younger cousin, Aki Yuzuhara, currently studying in Teitan elementary school. Next year he will be joining this middle school so he pestered me to bring him today for a field trip and since its summer vacation and only the clubs and the remedial classes will be on I decided to bring him to school."

"He was watching us play, after practise got over I was just practising some free throws, when Mouri was making her way towards the exit."

"Ehh why use the basketball court exit?" Shinichi asked

"The main entrance stays closed during the vacation Shinichi." Ran added.

Well since Shinichi was in outdoor sports it was natural he was not going to know the gymnasium settings during the summer vacation.

"I see and then."

"It is sort of my fault really," Nakamichi said a little guiltily.

"Its really an accident and I am really not badly hurt." Ran reassured the boys.

"Well I was practising the free throws on the hoop which was near the exit since it was hot and the doors were open. Mouri initailly took the long way around the court but I told her it would be okay to use the shorter route."

"Aki was chasing the basket balls after my throws and well it just happened to fast. A stray baseball smashed in through the upper window and litrally at the same time I had thrown for the hoop but it ended up smashing the tempered glass."

"Aki was so surprised and could not move on time but Mouri with her fast reflexes pinned him down and covered him."

"You know the rest, I removed the glass shards and helped them up and came to give Mouri some first aid."

Shinichi saw her hands where her fingers were covered in individual band aids.

"Its not that bad Shinichi, really," said Ran waving her hands in front of him to show that she was not hurt.

"Also I am wearing the gymnasium clothes so I am in a jacket and all so I did not get pierced with any glass shards," Ran smiled reassuringly to all the boys present in the infirmary.

Nakamichi sighed but gave a grateful smile and said, "Thanks Mouri, I owe you one. You too Aki, say thank you one again."

"Hai, arigatou pretty onee-san." Aki said cheerfully, clearly regaining his spirits.

All three were taken aback by his bashful compliment but Ran playfully tapped his nose.

"Nakamichi, I think you should get going. I suppose you will need to run a few errands." said Shinichi.

"Now that you mention it, since I was the last person there, I will need to clean up the glass shards in the gym and also drop a message to Gotou-san, our club advisor about the damage." Nakamichi said, suddenly listing things off.

"Aki, lets run to see if a few of my teammates are still here, I will need to ask for their help."

"Do me a favour Nakamichi, my teammates must be waiting for me as well, please let them know I will be running a little late and that they can wait at the family restaurant 2 streets away, the usual hangout spot."

"Got it. Anyways, thanks Mouri, see you guys around."

Nakamichi rushed out with Aki-kun in tow. Ran giggled at the kid and waved him goodbye and her eyes met Shinichi. His eyes were calm but were locked onto hers. Unmoving and steady. Seeing the serious look in hie eyes Ran's own eyes softened and a small smile blossomed on her face.

"I am really not hurt Shini-ouch!" Ran let out a small yelp and moved her hands towards the nape of her neck.

"Dont touch it." said Shinichi, swiftly holding on to her wrist.

"Let me do it. As suspected there are shattered glass fragments in your hair. Well since your hair is long and silky it did not get entagled but any small leftover shards are dangerous."

Shinichi grabbed the first aid and circled around her and to have a look.

"Wear gloves Shinichi, otherwise you will also end up getting cuts if there are more glass shards."

"It will be fine I can see clearly."

Shinichi very slowly placed his hand on the back of Ran's neck, she let out a slight surprised gasp. Shinichi moved his hands slowly and placed his hand on the nape of her neck.

Ran felt a rush of heat. His hands felt big and hot against the cool nape of her neck.

As soon as he stopped his hand, he felt the shard. Shinichi picked the tweezer from the first aid box and removed it.

"I will have a quick look Ran."

Shnichi kept his hand on the back of her neck and with the other hand slowly combed through her hair. His movements was gentle and patient as he slowly and steadily gathered bunch of her hair and placed them on her shoulders.

Ran closed her eyes in bliss. Well there was no one woman in the world who did not like to have their hair bushed. It was a hot day but now the sun was setting, the school had gotten quiet as the club activities had gotten over, the chirp of the cicadas was loud, clock of the infirmary was ticking away and in this quiet she heard it as well. Shinichi's and and her own heartbeat. Ran felt as is she had trancsended somehwere, her auditory and tactile senses had expanded and she really felt as his and her heart were beating in unison as if they were always one, two halves of the same thing.

"There all done."

Ran woke up, startled and slightly confused.

Infirmary....???

She looked around, her hair was bunched up on one side of her shoulder, her neck felt cool and she could distinctively feel the bandaid on her neck.

...Right, I got hurt and Shinichi was giving me a first aid.

She turned slowly and looked upwards, her eyes hazy and dreamy but shining and lovely. She felt a sudden gush of warmth enveloping her on seeing him.

"Arigatou Shinichi." she said, her voice was soft and mellow and a tender smile blossomed on her face.

Shinichi pulled away from her, a faint blush creeping up on his neck. He covered his face with his hand, trying to hide his embaressment.

"Its no big deal. Let's go."

They left the infirmary and made their way to the club room.

"Oh, how was your practise game today? Are you excited? The matches will start in three days, right?"

"Yes, everyone is in high spirits and pumped up for the tournament. A few teammates and I were planning to go to my house and watch a few recorded videos of our upcoming opponents."

"I see, wait a minute! Does that mean I held you up?"

"No no dont worry about it, I told them go ahead and wait at the family restaurant. It didnt take long anyway. I just need to get changed."

"I see, do you want to go together then?"

"Sure, wait for me," said Shinichi and entered the scoccer club room.

Once inside, Shinichi took mad gulps of air as if finally he could breath. These past ten minures or so felt erratic to him. the concern which flooded him when her heard of the accident, him sprinting all over the school premises, seeing her and then the rush of relief on seeing her not gravely injured. The next few minutes were even more bizzare.

Shinichi felt as if he had become hypersensitive towards Ran. When he had placed his hand on the nape of her neck, his palms were so much more warmer, the back of his hand felt ticklish due to her hair. However, the torture began when he had to weave through the long, silky strands. The thick locks wrapped around and slipping through his fingers were doing a number on his heart. Considering his ginormous crush on her, touching Ran like this felt extremely intimate and nerve wrecking at the same time.

Phew! Finally made it

Shinichi peeked at Ran, suddenly realising how still she was sitting. The sight he saw simply robbed him off his breath. Ran's face was tranquil, her long lashes were almost touching her upper cheeks, her breath was slow and steady, her full lips were slightly parted and Shinichi had the sudden intense urge to trace them with his fingers and investigate if her hair was softer or her lips.

.....Ran, I thought I could watch you forever, your eyes, lips, smile, hands, your every gesture.

.......I thought I could do it but I am slowly realising how futile this is. I have simply been enchanted.....

..... Even when I know I am sinking, I do not want to be saved. I really want to drown. I have been completely captivated by you.......

He memorised the image of her in his mind as best as he could, cleared his throat and said, "There all done."

Almost like butterfly wings, Ran's eyes fluttered open and she looked up around and met Shinichi's eyes with a dreamy, sleepy smile.

"Arigatou Shinichi."

Might as well pour honey in my ears Ran!!!!

Shinichi trampled down on his urge to pounce on her and crush her in his arms.

These whiplash of emotions is tiring. How come one moment I feel an emotion which almost like devotion but then the other moment I want to do unspeakable things to her?!?!

Shnichi felt shame but somehow managed to keep the conversation going till reaching the changing room bringing him to his current predicament of gulping in air as a way to clear his head off perverted thoughts.

He quickly changed and came outside. Ran was waiting outside holding her bag by her chest. Shinichi automatically grabbed her her bag and said, "Lets go."

Ran was slightly surprised but smiled and fell in step with him.

They spoke about casual things like the upcoming matches, Karate club's summer camp, other plans for summer vacation and reached the family restaurant. The boys were waiting outside for the duo.

Hama and Inoue shared sly a look after seeing Mouri's bandage covered hands and the fact that Kudou was carrying Mouri's gym bag.

"Oooo nice timing! We just got the takeaway as well. Lets go." Toonoka said ethusiastically.

They walked and chatted till reaching a common point.

"This is it for me," said Ran taking her bag from Shinchi.

"All the best for the matches! I will definately be cheering you guys on."

"If you have time do come to see us play," said Tonoka

Ran secretly met Shinichi's eyes, smiled and said, "Of course, I will most certainly be there."

Waving goodbyes, they went there separate ways.

After walking some distance Ran had the sudden urge to look back. The boys were all smiles and looked excited, energetic and so full of youthful energy.

Seeing them like this, seeing Shinichi like this made her happy.

She clasped her hands together, feeling a dull pinching ache in her hands but prayed.

"Kami-sama, please let the scoccer team play with no regrets. Also please heal my hands quickly, I wish to make a teru teru bouzu. I hope all the matches have clear blue skies."

Following the short prayer, Ran rushed home.

*****

I find this sooooo adorablee >////////<

A/N - THIS IS NOT MY IMAGE

A/N - All the credits to the original artist!!

Ran did mention about hanging teru teru bouzu for Shinichi's important matches and so the title. :)

Also in that case is a rare moment when 'Conan' is not really excited for the case but is actually more interested in going on a field trip with his Ran-'neechan'

The side-eye of Conan towards Heiji will always make me laugh :)))

A/N 1 - Hellooo everyone, imma back with a mini theater. Sooo it is basically my point of view of what went through when Conan received the hand-knit sweater made by Ran in chapter 237 - From the bottom of the heart.

A/N 2 - This portion was sooooooo adorable and heart warming, I just haddd to write about it!!!

Without further ado, please enjoy!! :)) <3

Conan had no idea when his walk had turned into a speed walk, then to a jog and the fact that he was now sprinting at full speed to Hakase's place.

He was running as fast as his short feet could carry him. It all began from the phone call he had recievd from Hakase.

"Aahh Shinichi-kun, Ran-chan dropped a package for you."

The distance between the Mouri detective agency and Hakase's place felt much longer today.

Is it really for me? Something for me?

Conan's muddled and insecure thoughts cleared up when Ran asked for the sweater from Araide-sensei.

Ahhh so she is into knitting these days.....

So that's the reason she is late these days....

I guess she is at Kisaki-sensei's place......

His unsettled stomach had considerably calmed down when he had deduced that Ran had not fallen in love with Araide-sensei and that was enough for Conan to find his peace but the phone call from Hakase had left him running blank and breathless, as his deduction and his heart made his emotions swing like a pendulum.

His hope and logic were constantly at the opposing ends.

"I...*huffs*... am.... *huffs*..... here.... Hakase....," said Conan.

"Here you go Shinichi-kun."

Hakase passed him the package with a grin, clearly having guessed what was inside.

However Conan was already busy with his deductions and rushed to the basement of Hakase's house and lowered the temperature of the radiator.

The lightness of the package, the compressibility of the wrapped objects, so sounds apart from the rustling of the paper packaging, Conan had his answer.

It's a hand knit sweater for me.

His throat constricted with emotion and he had to gulp several times before he could even proceed to unwrap the package.

Very slowly he took out the wrapped present from the paper bag and slowly undid the packaging to reveal a light blue coloured sweater.

Shinichi couldnt breath.

He held it up and studied the sweater in detail and in his minds eye he could picture the entire process. Ran selecting yarn of a colour which he would like. Reading up on the steps, watching tutorials and slowly giving a structure to a ball of yarn.

Conan studied every detail, including the meticulously made knits, the high neck collar, the raised block pattern, the cuffs, the shoulder length. He could sense every sincere and dedicated action Ran had done to make this sweater. Everything about this piece of knitwear was undoing his heart.

Feeling extremely overwhelmed by emotions, Shinichi hugged the sweater close to his chest and buried his face in the high-neck collar. The sweater obviously smelled of simple yarn, but even then Shinichi could feel that once the sweater was completed Ran had hugged this finished product as well. He did his best to take in even the most minuscule remnant of her.

The room had gotten colder now and Shinichi pulled it away and saw a paper fall from inside the sweater. It was Ran's handwritten note.

Remember to stay warm, it is getting colder these day - Ran

Shinichi read the note again and again and finally pressed his lips against the paper, kissing Ran's name.

How many more times must I lose my heart to you Ran?

Conan put the sweater on which was quite obviously big on him and even reached his feet. He was covered in it from head to toe, literally. He felt a little bittersweet as it would have been a perfect fit on 'Shinichi' but even then he pulled back the sleeves and gently kissed the cuffs and the high collar.

It was warm, soft and cosy, exactly like the heart of the woman he so dearly loved.

Feeling a bubbling sense of joy he looked at himself in the mirror admiring the knitwear all over again and completely failing to see his own flushed cheeks and the twinkle in his eyes.

Post his admiration he sauntered out from the basement still wearing it and walked upstairs to make a very important call.

They are soooo adorable <333

*****

A/N - Let me know if you guys like it!! and please forgive me for typos

And as always bonus Shinran pics.

A/N - The images are NOT MINE. All the credits to the original artists!

Once again. All the credits to the ORIGINAL artist!!

A/N - I saw this adorable and hilarious image and I JUST HAADDDDD to write a mini theater about it. It is hilarious. The artist has my whole heart for this one :))

*****

"Please! Please Conan-kun. You look so adorable. Please wear it."

Conan's skin was crawling with utmost repulsion and rejection but the soft pleading voice, the wishful gentle eyes were doing a number on him.

Damn it. Damn it! DAMNN ITTT!!!!!

Just you wait Ran! I swear I will make you pay!!!

Conan had lost the battle and the war hands down. He was currently sporting the softest, the fluffiest white-coloured bunny ear plush hat.

Needless to say, his self-esteem was in the gutter. His face was a mixture of annoyance and defeat but what could he do, his enemy was invincible. He was never gonna win.

Strong and sure arms wrapped around his torso and all of a sudden he felt weightless. His feet were off the ground and he felt his back press into a pillowy softness. Ran was carrying him

This againnn!!!

"Gomene Conan-kun~ but arigatou. You are so adorable," Ran said hugging him tightly.

Close! You are too close!!

Her voice! Her breath! This is torture! But I like it so much!

Conan braced himself to look back and peek at her face. Ran was looking at him with the most adoring, doting gaze. Conan slumped in utter defeat. As deducted, he was never going to win. But being carried in your arms like this, this is my compensation.

You hear me Ran, this is COMPENSATION!!!

"Oh, there you are, Hattori-kun, Kazuha-chan!"

.....Say what now...??

"I am glad you guys arrived quickly!"

.....Who has arrived quickly..??...And why...??

"Look, don't you think Conan-kun looks adorable with the bunny hat!?" Ran said holding him up.

Hell no!

Conan dreaded looking up, "Oh dear, if theish isnt the cutest Conan-kyun."

Conan heard the most nauseating forced baby voice ever and the facial expression was even worse.

A vein popped on Conan's head.

Hattori Heiji was looking down at Conan with the most annoying expression known to mankind.

"Now would you look at this, these bunny ears move as well. Shoo cute Conan-kyun," said Hattori as he bent down to play with the buttons which made the bunny ears move.

Conan's glare was slicing the man to pieces.

You are dead Hattori! You are soo dead!!!

Yea yea, keep glaring but I am under the protection of your precious Ran-neechan.

"Ran-chan! Look at this," said Kazuha.

"What is it?" Ran asked turning away for a moment.

That was all it took, Conan grabbed him by the collar and in his most vicious voice, made sure that Hattori knew who had the upper hand here.

"Oi, you better remember that I have a very embarrassing voice recording of a certain idiot giving a very public confession on a very crowded Ebisubashi bridge. I have deleted my copy but the Detective boys certainly have theirs."

"Knock it off with this behaviour, otherwise you have no idea the places that, that recording can reach. Dont. Test. Me!"

"Hai Conan-kun. As you say Conan-kun."

Heiji backed off.

This is so cute!!!

The mini theatre is not so 'mini' but the image!!! I swear!!

Another ShinRan fanshort..... cause why not? Cause we all love a healthy dose ShinRan, dont we? :) Enjoy!!

"Tell me, Ran! You need to answer my question!" Shinichi said adamantly.

"Mou~ why are you so persistent with it and why does it even matter?" Ran replied brushing off his question.

"Because I won fair and square, you must keep the promise," Shinichi replied firmly, not backing down.

Ran looked at him, and although he was speaking in a demanding manner Shinichi's lips were pulled in a pout, and his eyes had a childlike stubborn look in them. Almost like a kid begging for a toy.

Needless to say Ran's heart melted, not that she had a chance anyway. However, the question Shinichi had asked her, well the answer to that was extremely close to her heart so putting that into words was going to be difficult for her hence her delay in answering her question.

"Fine I will answer you, just give me a moment to collect my words, ok?" Ran replied, defeated by his persistence.

Shinichi stubborn attitude deflated immediately as he patiently waited for Ran's response.

The couple a few days back had a discussion about 'first love' and Shinichi accidently ended up confessing that he fell in love at first sight with Ran. Needless to say, Ran was over the moon and was beaming with joy. Shinichi was embarrassed but pleased to see her look so happy so he asked her as well, when did she fall in love with him?

Ran looked at him, blushed profusely and refused to answer. Shinichi driven by the curiosity of her reaction and his own case-solving mind was now persistently trying to make deductions as to when she fell in love with him. Thankfully they both know that they were each other's first love so it was just a matter of solving 'when.'

However, to his utter annoyance, he was not very accurate with this deduction about Ran and she always seemed to have an upper hand. Well, his chances of winning were negligible when Ran would look at him doey pleading eyes and completely non-existent when she would throw in a random kiss. He was never gonna win. But this time around he managed to somehow persist even after the relentless attacks.

The couple had a game they would play when they wanted the other to spill a secret. They would stand at a crowded intersection and guess the colour of the fifth passing car. Anyone who guessed correctly or was closest to the colour range would win the bet and make the other say or do the thing they want. This was more or less a pure game of chance so they had a 50-50 chance of winning. In this case, Shinichi had won and now was demanding the answer to his question as to 'when' did Ran fall in love with him and Ran was sneakily trying to avoid the question. Though now she had given in to his persistence.

Shinchi was patiently looking at her and the more he looked at her with his clear unwavering gaze the more she felt her heart tremble.

She began softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia,

"It was during the New York case when I fully acknowledged my feelings for you."

A look of surprise crossed his face, "When we were fifteen? You sure took your sweet time," Shinichi whined.

Here I am losing my heart to you the moment I saw you smile. Shinichi had complains.

"Let me finish."

"Go ahead," he said grumpily and looked away

Ran was amused with his childish antics but she continued.

"Shinichi, you are a very precious person to me. I have known you since we were in kindergarten. We have spent a lot of time in each other's company."

Shinichi glanced back at her.

"I look at you too, you know,"

"It was around the final year of middle school when I started feeling that you were a bit more special to me."

Shinichi's eyes sparkled as he looked at her.

"But even before that I really admired your courage, honesty, truthful nature and your idealistic principles as well."

"I did look up to you as an individual well before I realised that I loved you."

"Eventually and slowly other aspects of you became endearing to me as well. Your insane obsession with detective stories especially with Sherlock Holmes which ended up inspiring you to be a detective, a soccer enthusiast or even your single minded approach to achieve your goals. Even your bold but reckless behaviour which got you in trouble."

Ran spoke softly, her voice soft, compassionate but wavering, but her eyes were shining and shaking.

Meanwhile, Shinichi felt suffocated. His breath was punctured and agonised. He was certainly not prepared for this confession.

Ran continued.

"Slowly you were occupying a large part of me. Initially, when I had a vague realisation of my feelings, I was confused for a while. I didnt want these newly sprouted feelings to create confusion and misunderstandings between us. At that time you were my most precious childhood friend as well."

"Matters of the heart are delicate and fragile. I didn't want my admiration towards you to become misguided just because I was entering adolescence."

"But it was a hopeless case for my heart. During the case in New York, in the abandoned building, where we saved that serial killer your words reassured me. They were like a balm to my soul."

"That's when I realised that my heart had already fully surrendered to you."

"Your acts of kindness, attentiveness, protective behaviour, your unique ways of caring for people around you, all of it came rushing to me as if a dam had exploded on me."

Ran gasped for a breath. Even now, she felt her body tremble as she still felt that painful intensity of love. So many memories of their time together flashed in her mind. Her eyes glistened with tears, it was the sweet pain of love.

"I was so overwhelmed Shinchi, I realised that there was no way I would not love you, you are too deeply entangled in my soul."

"As for you being passionate as a detective, I am extremely proud of you, the way you protected Ai-chan, single-handedly bearing the burden to put an end to those men in black, taking the enormous responsibility of protecting the people around you. It sets my heart my ablaze with pride and honour. Thankfully I have learnt all of you."

"I feel your loneliness too. The worries, the sadness and the sacrifices you had to make. The dangerous endeavour you took upon yourself, I feel it all Shinichi. So much so that it hurts."

"I have learnt all of you, from your heart to your soul so that you do not need to spend a lifetime translating yourself, your actions for me."

"I no longer pinpoint to one particular moment but I am certain of the fact that I have loved you every moment."

The atmosphere in the room was strange and quite Shinichi was looking down and his bangs were hiding his face so Ran couldnt see his expression.

"Se-See, happy now," said Ran, nonchalantly trying to change heavy the atmosphere as she nervously fanned her face and looked up to hold back tears.

I knew I was gonna tear up! Shinichi, you idiot!! And now he is not even saying anything after making me such embarrassing things.

"Why wont you say anything? I am going to be really angry if you are secretly laughing at m-"

"Mmuph"

Shinichi kissed her. Without warning, without permission, but simply because he couldn't have done anything else. He couldn't breathe, he needed the breath she was holding. It belonged to him and he needed it back.

Ran's back hit the sofa under his passionate assault. Shinichi's lips moved with frightening intensity. He couldn't decide whether he wanted to devour her or bury himself in her or just simply melt into her.

Ran started to feel light-headed under the lack of air and attempted to push him away. Shinichi moved away, barely an inch away from her moist, swollen and slightly bruised lips. His body was still pressed on top of her, close and intimate.

Ran gasped for some air. Her face flushed with a lovely shade of pink, her eyes dazed, moist and wet but she did not even have the courage to face him.

"Shinichi, I-"

Again!!!!

This is not enough Ran! It is barely scratching the surface of my madness.

Shinichi kissed her feverishly because words could no longer express the depth of his emotions.

Every time he had thought that he had reached the pinnacle of his love for her, she would do something that would throw him back at the starting point.

Shinichi pulled away and their eyes met. The eyes spoke volumes of unsaid things between them. Shinichi gently caressed her face with his thumb drawing small circular patterns on her cheek while Ran melted into his touch.

Shinichi gave a small smile and buried his face in the crook of her neck. He felt a small lingering kiss on the base of her throat where he could vividly feel her pulse and even hear her heartbeat. This soft warmth was all his and his alone.

"Aishiteru."

Ran wound her arms around him, keeping him close and secure.

"Hmmm."

And the couple drifted off to sleep.

(Kinda close to the image of them I had in my mind of them falling asleep.)

(They look so cute!)

(A/N - All the credits to the actual artist. This image is NOT mine.)

******

A/N 1 - Damnnn I am on a rollll!!! This one has been on my mind for a while but I just could not pen it down properly but I hope you guys enjoy what I wrote.

A/N 2 - As mostly guessed this is after the BO part is over and Shinichi has told Ran everything.

A/N 3 - Please like and comment and let me know what do you guys think, also please forgive me for any grammatical errors.

A/N 4 - The images used are not mine. All the credit to the original artists!!

Bonus picture 1 - "Someone being patient with you is one of the softest forms of love" - Sarah Zuraiqi.

(She really is an angel)

Bonus picture 2 ..... Cause why not! (>////////<)

(They are sooooo adorable!!!)

There are already quite a lot of thoughts, rants, complaints and appreciations floating on the internet regarding the DC movies so I thought let's just add one more :P

Movie 26 - Black iron submarine -

Well there has been in discussion for quite a lot of reasons but what I rarely saw was

RAN AND CONAN (SHINICHI) WERE SHARING THE ROOOMMMM!!!!

In all the DC movies, Its always Ran and Sonoko always sharing the room or she is with Kazuha or in a rare instance with the Haibara and Ayumi.

Well that also gave us an iconic combat scene and dammnnn I was definately happy and surprised to see them share a room especially when Sonoko was very much there in the resort with them.

From the Haibara angle, it was pitiful when she cried thinking of her sister when poor Naomi was breaking down for her father. But also kind of bittersweet when Ran hugs her in relief upon her rescue and she thinks of her elder sister again and this time in reassurance.

A small nugget but well presented I guess.

2. Movie 27 - A million dollar pentagram/signpost

Well I haven't really watched it yet but lets just say that enough people have had a mental breakdown because of this movie.

So I do not know how crazy does this fandom does research and all but-

a) Gosho Aaoyama had actually revealed a long time back that Toichi Kuroba is alive ~ around 2010-11, so the Japanese audience kinda already knew. It was mostly the international audience, who do not have much access to the old interviews or that which remain untranslated which were taken by surprise, perhaps.

b) Is Toichi hiding/faking his death a bad thing?

In my opinion - NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT. Because

He is a father of a very young boy. Toichi is literally investigating shady organisations using his alias of Kaitou Kid. His identity reveal with directly put his wife and son in danger. He is well aware of the dangers related to the job how else is he supposed to protect his son? No parent would want to be on a run with a young child that would be far more worse for a young Kaitou.

Even after faking his death, it's not like he can directly contact his wife because if his death is orchestrated then for sure his wife and child will be under some type of surveillance. He really needs to maintain secrecy.

His faith in Kaitous's brilliance is something to applaud for and his own genius. He left a perfect trap mechanism for an older and bit more mature Kaito to whom he can entrust the comeback of Kaitou kid and if anyone had been reading the magic kaitou manga then Toichi has already made an appearance in the manga as well (most likely) as Kaitou Corbeau, it was around the same time as the interview.

This 'Kaitou Corbeau' also claims that he is coming back after an 8 year hiatus because he was recovering from an illness.

Also is it really surprising that Toichi faked his death?

Akai has faked his death and is hiding it from his family except Shukichi. He is not very keen on letting his mom and sis know about his whereabouts.

Conan too is hiding and holding too many secrets from Ran.

Also in Japanese culture or rather east Asian countries the kids are extremely independent even from a young age.

Apparently, there was a Japanese reality TV show which had three-year-olds running errands for their parents!!! Freaking as young as three!!! It was greatly enjoyed by the audience and they found it very endearing as well.

But even apart from this. In Japanese, Chinese and Korean manga. manhua and manhwa respectively it is very common to show kids as young as 13-14 living by themselves. We feel it's wrong and neglectful but at least in the DCMK storyline, these teenagers are far well put together. Apart from solving murder mysteries, these kids are talented and well-disciplined even without direct parental supervision and the best part being, even after being distant they maintain a good parent-child relationship no matter how much we think otherwise.

Be it Yusaku and Yukiko being supportive.

Eri consistently spending time with Ran,

Heizo Hattori's Tough Love approach towards grooming his son.

Ginshiro Toyama looking out for his daughter

Sonoko, considering she is an heiress is also quite sensitive to the people around her.

Even Chikage who is shown to be travelling but is shown video calling Kaito frequently.

The bad parent may be Kogoro and Midoroko most likely but its not their fault.

Kogorou is most certainly supposed to be a comic relief so him being hopeless is just how its supposed to be.

Modoriko (Aoko's mom) has been nonchalantly introduced in the DCMK universe after 30+ years so can't blame her either per se.

Who knows we might end up seeing a similar pattern if Kazuha's mother ever gets introduced?

But DC women are far better written and empowered than many other series. They have their own stories and are pretty fleshed-out and individualistic personalities.

Also sorry for the Kaishin supporters. I have just have consolation hugs for you guys.

I was MAJORLY pissed when Miyano sisters were related to the Akai family. Apart from the reveal it just completely invalidated Amuro's character. He became the worst possible guy in the series. Again, not his fault but Gosho Aaoyama's poor writing. The problem is I am too deep into this series and even if the author keep contunuing it for the next 20 years I know for sure that I will still hopelessly spend my time reading it. ****Painful sobs**** For more feel free to read a different post of mine titled - My problem with the Akai family plot.

********

Let me know what you guys think!!!

Here is a shinran short story to cheer you up. Cause I don't know about you guys but I am definitely having shinran withdrawals (I constantly have ShinRan withdrawals).

For all the images used, all the credit goes to the original artists. These are not mine.

So without further ado. Happy reading!

TITLE - Half - Love

"I am in half-love, half-love will be yours."

"With each these halves our love will be fulfilled."

"These small steps will help us cross the miles of a long journey."

.......Ran is humming again.... Conan listened quitely

"Slowly and slowly this newfound colour of love will get deeper."

"These small steps will help us fulfill all our promises."

....... A love song......

Conan felt a complex tumble of emotions. He felt a lump stuck in his throat, almost like a stone had been dropped in his stomach. His gaze was fixed on Ran, a little forlorn, sad, even perplexed with some underlying sparks of joy as well.

At the moment Ran was humming a cheerful love song, her footsteps were light and floaty. She was preparing for dinner and was delighted, why you ask? Because she had just finished talking to Shinichi. She was feeling happy and blissful after talking to her 'boyfriend.'

Oh my god!!! It is real! He really is mine!

Ran still couldn't help but internally squeal with joy, feeling a rush of butterflies and her cheeks taking a rosy hue. She really felt as if everything that happened at Kiyomizu dera was still a dream.

After concluding the call with Ran as 'Shinichi,' Conan came back home only to be brightly greeted by Ran. He settled down in the drawing room where he planned to do his 'homework' but once again he was distracted by Ran.

He knew that she loved him. He had known that she at least liked him since the day he became Conan, but sometimes he would get overwhelmed by seeing the same love in action. As 'Conan' he was literally a third-party observer in his own relationship.

"Can this situation get any more absurd!?" Shinichi would sometimes sit blankly thinking about it.

Shinichi was terrified of hurting Ran especially when he was the cause, even the thought of her being in pain or distressed made his blood crawl backwards. Initially, he never said anything to her even after knowing her feelings was because he didn't want to hurt her as he 'physically' could not be by her side as 'Shinichi.' But now things were different, so very different. Whenever he talked to her, he felt bittersweet and frustrated at the same time.

As Conan, he could see Ran being directly affected by his actions. He did his best to not hurt her but he would cave in to his own desires too sometimes, but this warm-hearted woman would even find joy even in his most meagre steps.

Just one step from me towards her makes her sunny and gleeful.

'......the red gloves I gave as a Christmas present.....'

'.....the time I accepted the Valentine's day chocolate without her knowing.....'

'..... the time I gave her my phone number....'

There were so many instances in his mind that he could not even recount them all.

If I don't call her she is beside herself with worry and the worst part is that this is the one time she is extremely good at hiding her emotions.

'....Immediately after I shrank and was on radio silence for an entire week.....'

'...... Heck, I had not even realised that Ran was having insomnia due to her worries.....'

I can't thank Hakase enough for making the voice-changing bowtie.

'.....The passing forlorn wistful look in her eyes.......'

These moments were almost like glass shards piercing slowly and painfully into his body.

So this is how it feels, to see firsthand, seeing someone love so unconditionally.

To be her first thought in the morning,

To be the main character in her life, to be her favourite,

The reason she hums a romantic tune,

To be completely reflected in her eyes,

To be a home she craves for,

To have her life revolve around mine.

Conan sighed deeply and slumped on the table in despair but felt overwhelmed as well, being cherished by the person he adored had its own sense of bliss.

He imagined that at this very moment, he would turn in 'Shinichi.'

Slowly he made his way towards towards the kitchen where Ran was humming and was oblivious to his presence. He leaned at the door frame drinking in the sight of hers, Shinichi, almost as if in a trance walked towards her. His heart was beating furiously but calm at the same time. He was just half a step away when he heard her gasp in surprise as if she had felt his presence. At the same moment, Shinichi enveloped Ran in a hug from behind. His arms were sure and strong, tightly enveloping her.

"....Shinichi??" Ran's voice was a mix of surprise and confusion.

"What? How?" She mumbled.

"Hush now," said Shinichi, tightening his hold even further. Ran went still and blushed profusely.

Shinichi tightly clung to Ran, one arm crossed over her shoulder and the other encircled her waist, pulling her into a human cage. Shinichi buried his face in her neck.

"Your heart is beating so fast Ran," Shinichi murmured in a low husky voice.

'-Bec-because you are suddenly....and how??? and randomly .... from where....???' but it was almost as if someone had glued her mouth shut.

It felt wonderful to have her tucked away in his arms like this. His entire world was completely within his grasp.

Shinichi, slowly, very slowly trailed feather-like small kisses from the nape of her neck to her cheek. Her skin was soft and supple, her scent mild and addicting.

"I miss you so much," whispered Shinichi

His voice was tinged with sadness and longing as his lips lingered on her cheeks

*******

"Oi brat wake up the dinner is ready."

Kogorou's gruff voice startled Conan awake who looked around in a daze and half asleep.

Conan looked over to the kitchen to see Ran's back and quickly turned away feeling as if his cheeks were on fire. The dinner table was set and ready.

"Oi Ran, I am switching to the news."

"Haaiii."

"....The headlines for the day..."

"......Breaking and entering in the Haido-cho apartment..."

"....A new approved drug for appetite control...."

".....New mascot for XXX brand...."

Conan could barely concentrate on the news and ate with his head down with his ears still very much red. He couldn't even bring himself to look at Ran.

"Dad, Conan-kun, I am done. I have a ton of homework so just clear the tables I will do the dishes later."

Ran rushed to her room like a gust of wind and slammed the door shut.

"....Alright..." Kogorou just looked blankly at the now-empty space.

What the hell just happened? Ran and that brat are acting strange? Why are both their faces red? Is it flu season? Especially Ran, she had such a feverish look where right down to her neck she was completely red?

******

Ran slammed her door room shut and collapsed against it. Her breath was fast and erratic. Not just her face but it felt as if her body was burning.

What was that!? What was thaaattt!?

What's happening to me!?

I know I miss him. I know that I want him to come back as soon as possible but to have such thoughts where he...

Where he... touched and- and- and a kiss like thaaaattt.

Ran's face was steaming. It really resembled a freshly boiled crab, but she felt it even now as clear as day, her back pressed tightly against his, the intimate feel of their bodies, the warm breath, the low murmuring voice, his arms holding her tightly.

It felt so vivid and real, almost like a clandestine sweetheart visit.

Somehow Ran made it to her bed and hid in the cocoon of her blankets. Feeling too shy and embarrassed to even rationally process the tricks her mind played on her.

She opened her gallery and scrolled for his photograph. With a pang, she realised that the only recent pictures of him were from the school trip that too were mostly group pictures and had Sonoko not teased them enough to take a picture she may not have even had that. She scrolled further and came across a picture of him.

It was a candid picture of Shinichi looking elsewhere while holding a camera, he was smiling softly and looked very handsome.

(A/N - Cause he looks adorable)

Ran gently caressed the picture with her thumb.

I love you. I really love you a lot already, baka. So, please come quickly, I want to see you again.

She had an urge to call him again, to hear his voice but decided not to and fell asleep.

In her sleepy daze she remembered that Shinichi's candid photograph was clicked by Yukiko-san when he was clicking Ran's picture while they were in New York, a year ago.

*****

Conan sat on the balcony and was trying to cool his head. His dream or imagination or whatever had ended up ringing alarm bells in his mind.

'I want to hear her voice.'

He sighed, 'I' literally talked with her today and not to mention this is a one-sided long-distance relationship where I am actually living with her.

'I should not be this greedy.'

Conan opened his secret folder and yes he did have a secret folder full of Ran's images but the major culprit for it was Sonoko. She would occasionally send him Ran's pictures, she had been doing this for a while but the frequency had increased ever since he had become 'Conan' and Shinichi would simply not delete them.

He was not entirely at fault and this was a secret he was willing to keep for a bit longer than others.

He paused at the image which he had taken while they were in New York.

They were looking around the central park and Shinichi ended up clicking her picture as she was admiring the trees and just turned towards him. A shy surprised look as the sun and the wind gently caressed her.

(A/N - Cause she looks adorable too. I couldn't find a coloured picture, but the artist has done a fabulous job!!)

Shinichi felt the same burst of adoration as he always did when looked at the picture.

'I will be with you soon. I will come back to you as soon as I can and I will do my best to never leave you alone ever again.'

'Wait for me just a little longer.'

Almost as if his body moved on its own he gently kissed the screen and went back inside.

****The end****

A/N 1 - The images are NOT MINE. All the credit to the original artist.

A/N 2 - I hope you guys enjoyed reading it.

A/N 3 - Do forgive me for the grammatical errors

Please like and comment your thoughts.

BONUS cause the credit for this definitely goes to Sonoko.

These precious babies!!!

A/N 1) - To whoever that missed me :P I am back guysss. I wanted to write this fanfic but it kept taking too long and once I started writing it became waaayy too lengthy so please bear with me.

A/N 2) The fanfic is kinda inspired by this pic. Such cuties!!! <3

A/N 3) All the credits to the actual artist. This image is NOT MINE.

A/N 4) Please forgive the typos!

There are a few easter eggs in this fanfic. Let me know if you guys managed to find them :) Without further ado. Enjoy!

Shinichi was annoyed.

He clearly knew he was annoyed.

His gums were aching because he was clenching his jaw way too tightly, his hands were tightly fisted and he just knew for sure that he had a very ugly expression on his face.

Since he aspired to be a detective he had deduced why he was feeling this way but no amount of rational logic was helping him right now.

Meanwhile, the core reason for his irritation remained completely oblivious to his agony and was happily chatting away with him.

He sighed and went to his seat not like he could interrupt.

************

Shinichi's emotions were all over the place.

He glanced at Ran who was chatting with Fuji Kaname. The two of them had become acquainted when both of them were assigned morning duty and to make things worse a seat change had happened. Shinichi and Ran who were seated together previously were separated and that guy now occupied the seat next to Ran, meanwhile, Shinichi was thrown at the back of the class. Throughout his classes, Shinichi's eyes would wander towards them. He would have a strange churning in his stomach every time he saw them interacting. He knew what this meant. He has always known what Ran was to him.

The problem was the other boys were looking at her too. Back in elementary school they had a crush on her too but were too immature and childish to figure it out and acted like bullies towards her.

But now in middle school, these boys were trying to put in effort to talk to her and vie for her attention. He was well aware of the eyes on her, the interested, curious gaze, the infatuated look anytime Ran was around. Shinichi was almost glad that Ran was oblivious to the attention she was getting. At least she was not interested in them.

"Shinichi? What happened? Are you alright?"

Shinichi jerked up and came face to face with a pair of concerned blue eyes.

"R-Ran?? What's up?" Shinichi called out in surprise on seeing her.

"Oh I just wanted to confirm what time your soccer practice will get over today? Regional matches will be starting soon, right?"

"Oh it's just the usual time for this week, we will have extended practice from next week."

He answered her automatically.

"Hmmm." Ran had a look pondering look on her face. Meanwhile, Shinichi snuck a glance at Fuji who was staring at them and their eyes met. Fuji didn't turn his gaze away from them.

"Then I guess we can go back together. Is that alright?" Ran asked cheerily.

"Yeah, sure." Shinichi answered in a daze and Ran went back to her seat.

Shinichi felt a bubble of joy in his heart.

*******

"It sure has been a while since we walked back together." Ran stated simply.

"Ah..um."

"But I guess it is for this week only when our club practices will end together. Next week, I guess the soccer team will stay back for longer time."

"Hmm."

"Are you match-ups out already?"

"Hmmm."

"Shinichi?? Shinichi are you listening to me?? Shinichi??? Shinichi look out!!!!"

"Whaa..."

Shinichi couldn't get the image of Fuji and Ran out of his mind.

Should I ask her about him? Am I meddling? Will she become conscious of him if I ask her and start paying attention to him??

In his worries, he missed the steps in front of him causing him to tumble down and fall flat on his face. Thankfully it was not very high and just three steps.

"Shinichi are you alright??"

Ran crouched near him and checked up on him.

"What were you thinking?? You are hurt." Ran said softly wiping away the dirt.

"I am fine... I was just-

"Thinking about Sherlock Holmes." Ran finished for him absent mindedly while taking out a small first-aid pouch from her bag.

"No it was something else." Shinichi defended himself.

"Really? Shinichi are you capable of thinking of something else apart from Holmes and Scoccer, I didn't know that." Ran poked fun at him and chuckled as she cleaned his hands and face.

You, you idiot. I think of you. A little too much.

"So what got you in such a daze that you tumbled down like this?" Ran asked now bandaging him up.

Shinichi just stared at her in a daze. His eyes drank in her features, her hair, her eyes, her nose, supple-looking cheeks which were just waiting to be pinched and dare I go lower. Her lips.

NOOOOOOO!!!!! He felt his cheeks burn

Shinichi smashed himself mentally.

She just had to be the prettiest looking gal, didnt she. Shinichi almost resented her.

Cant you just stick to me? Like, forever? Why the hell is this Fuji guy making googly eyes at you!? Punch him away with your karate!

"Why is your face turning red? Don't tell me you have a fever too. You looked listless in the class today as well." Ran came closer to check his temperature.

"Enough! I am alright. Don't touch me so recklessly like this."

Shinichi couldn't stand this torment and before he knew it he was sprinting away from Ran as if set on fire.

Oh the pains of an awkward teenage boy with the girl he crushes on.

UGGHHHH!! What have I done!? She definitely hates me now. What do I do? I didn't want to behave like this. She must be hurt.

Panting heavily and completely out of breath Shinichi entered the house, ran to his room and slumped by the door.

He did not know how to handle this jealousy and worst of all he ended up being irritable towards Ran of all people.

I really need to apologise to her.

*****

"Shin-chan come down for dinner."

Shinichi's intercom buzzed.

The Kudou mansion was pretty big so they had intercoms in the rooms for easy communications.

Shinichi came down and took his place at the table and saw his parents share a glance.

"Ittedakimasu."

Dinner was strangely quiet and Shinichi observed the strange behaviour of his parents who kept glancing at each other and at him.

"So what is it you guys want to talk about?"

Yukiko and Yusaku looked at Shinichi though not very surprised with his observation.

"Well Shin-chan, your father and I were discussing a few things and we are deliberating the option of moving abroad, US to be more specific."

Shinichi was caught a little off guard by the statement.

"Nothing is final yet. We are just discussing and we would like to hear your opinion about it. I know it is a lot to take in right now but think about it."

"But why the sudden idea?" Shinichi asked slowly.

"It's not really sudden."

True, the US was a frequent family destination for them.

"As you know Yusaku's book on the Night Baron has become an instant hit and for research purposes, the US is a good option. The country has a broad spectrum of studies and case analogies."

The 'Night Baron' novel series was a very well-planned plot. Yusaku Kudo wrote individual crime thriller novels but it always had a shadowy and mysterious character who manipulated the protagonists in very subtle ways. Not something which would be picked in the first reading. After writing multiple novels with such a vague figure a lot of conspiracy theories were making rounds on the internet as to who this mysterious person was. Finally, a few weeks ago the first book In the Night Baron series was released which literally disappeared from the shelves within a day. The people devoured the book like crazy and it was still on the bestseller for six consecutive weeks already.

"Shin-chan, moving abroad will be a big change but I think living in the States will be good for you too. Think about it okay."

"Is that all?"

Yukiko and Yusaku looked at each other and nodded. Shinichi walked to his room and crashed on his bed.

He could only think of her.

Will I be able to leave Ran? Will she miss me? Will I become a distant forgotten childhood memory? Will she fall in love with someone and become his girlfriend?

Fuji's lovestruck face flashed in his mind and why just him, so many countless guys were infatuated with her. Who will win over her heart?

I-I- cant...

He had a vague idea of what he needed to do and for that, he needed to speak to hakase urgently.

****The next morning****

"Hakase? Are you up? Hakaseee??"

The door clicked open, "What is Shinichi-kun? So early in the morning?" Agasa- hakase said yawning and still very much sleepy.

Like a cheeky brat, Shinichi just pushed hakase inside and said,"I need a favour hakase and only you can do it."

"What is it?" Hakase asked a little more alert now.

Shinichi looked at him and deliberated for a moment but in the end hakase was best possible option.

"My parents are planning to move abroad hakase. I want you to take legal guardianship of me in their absence." Shinichi said in a blunt and straightforward manner.

"NANIIII??? Shinichi-kun do you have any idea what you are saying!?" Hakase was completely bewildered at the Shinichi's request.

"Please hakase, do me this favour! You and my father have been friends even before I was born, you have seen me since I was an infant and you just live next door to me. I-I have my reasons for not wanting to leave Japan and you are the only possible way I can convince my parents to let me stay here. Please." Shinichi deeply bowed his head in front of Hakase.

"Shinichi-kun!" Hakase was flustered by the sudden development and the request.

"Have you told your parents about it?"

"No, not yet." Shinichi said slowly.

"But why do you want to stay? Studying in the States is a wonderful opportunity, especially if you want to be a detective."

Shinichi looked up at hakase, his eyes showed a determined gleam.

*******

Feeling slightly better after talking to hakase Shinichi set off for school.

*****

Shinichi kept glancing at the clock and at the door of the classroom waiting for Ran to appear who had still not arrived. Ran was not late yet but it was later than usual time for her. Just then Ran walked in through the door.

Shinichi moved towards her but the moment their eyes met, a look of pain flashed in Ran's eyes and she hurried away form him to rush to her seat.

"Ohayo Mouri. It's rare for you to be this late." Fuji greeted her

Ran just passed him a sheepish grin and settled down in her avoiding Shinichi who was just left stunned in his place but quietly went back to his seat.

Of course, she is avoiding me, especially after how I behaved.

****

Shinichi tried multiple times to talk to Ran throughout the day but Ran successfully managed to avoid him and before he knew it she was sprinting out the door the moment classes got over. Shinichi felt dejected and was not sure what to do.

"Kudou?"

Shinichi turned and came face to face with Fuji and flinched.

You are the last person I want to see right now.

"I saw you were trying to talk to Mouri today."

"...."

"Arent you being a little too pushy? She is clearly avoiding you. Stop bothering her."

"Mind your own business." Shinichi frowned and shot back coldly.

"I will mind my own business after you stop bothering her," Fuji said haughtily, not backing down.

"It sure is a good play, playing innocent childhood playmates and taking advantage of that."

"Fuji-kun!" Ran called out horrified.

Shinchi and Fuji looked in surprise to see Ran standing there, looking at Fuji with hurt and disappointment. He paled under her hurt gaze.

"Mouri! I was just-" Fuji started now, stripped off his arrogance but stopped unable to say anything.

"Please never talk like that ever again," Ran said firmly.

"Let's go Shinichi."

She grabbed Shinichi's wrist and they walked away. Their footsteps sounded loud in the empty corridor but Ran refused to slow down as she was still feeling extremely annoyed.

"Ran calm down." Shinichi started slowly in a placating tone.

"How could you let him talk to you like that Shinichi!?" Ran glared at him feeling extremely agitated.

No Ran, I was actually just a second away from punching him in the face, you arriving there actually prevented a fistfight.

Ran was seething, she really thought Fuji-kun was a nice person. He was nice and polite as a seatmate, they got along fairly well but to think he had such a shallow opinion of her relationship with Shinichi.

Shinichi and her have been together since kindergarten, she has known him since she was four. All through elementary school and even now in the second year of middle school they have always been together. Also, Shinichi always had valid reasons for acting in a certain way and Ran knew for sure that none of his actions were ever meant to hurt her.

"I thought you were mad at me," Shinichi said slowly.

"I was a little annoyed but right now I am angry for a completely different reason." Ran huffed.

"Don't mind it, I don't think he really meant it anyway." Shinichi didn't want to defend him but he sort of understood where he was coming from.

"But even so." She mumbled.

"Gomen Ran, for yesterday," said Shinichi

Ran looked at him. The deserted corridor was dyed in an orangish-yellow hue of the setting sun and Shinichi's eyes were fixed on her with an unwavering strange intensity. They were so sincere, shaking almost shining. She felt a pang in her chest, it felt like a bittersweet ache. It didn't hurt but somehow it did, it felt warm and lovely. Ran felt a vague realisation. She has felt like this before but for some reason, this feeling was getting stronger with every passing day.

The moment Shinichi looks at me like that I will forgive him for anything and everything in less than a heartbeat.

A sweet smile blossomed on her face reflecting the warmth she felt in her heart.

"Shinichi is Shinichi no matter what." She said smiling. Shinichi grinned at her somehow understanding and not understanding the statement. She felt the same, the words that came out of her mouth were something which perplexed Ran herself but she didn't want to indulge much in these complex intense emotions for now.

This deduction nerd and her were walking back together, which made her happy.

*****

"Tou-san, kaa-san, please listen to me." Shinichi spoke with a deep breath.

Here goes...

"I wish to stay in Japan, I don't want to move abroad."

"But Shin-chan-"

"I spoke to Agasa-hakase, if you guys permit then he can take over my guardianship. He said that if you both agree to it then he will agree as well."

"What about wanting to pursue the path of being a detective?" Yusaku asked bluntly.

Shinichi clenched his fist and prepared to answer.

I got through to Agasa-hakase, I am sure I will get my intensions through to my parents as well.

"Tou-san, kaa-san, being a detective is my dream, and I wish to achieve and fulfil that with my own strength and efforts. Even if it takes a little longer, I want to remain in Japan. If in future certain conditions turn favourable I will think of going abroad, till then please let me stay here. Onegaishimasu!"

Shinichi felt a tense silence in the room but he looked at his parents with the same determination and desire which had won over Agasa-hakase in the morning.

"Fine then, I guess." Yusaku said cooly.

"Really!?" Shinichi shouted in surprise.

"But Yuu-chan!!" Yukiko whined but Yusaku managed to placate and reassure her.

Shinichi felt a sweet relief on getting acknowledgement from his parents.

I can do it! I will definitely become a great detective. I will be by her side. The girl who carries a first aid pouch for me. The girl who values the relationships of people around her. The girl who has me wrapped around her fingers. I won't have to part from her, for now, this is more than enough. For now, this will do.

*****

"Please it's alright. I really don't want to impose on your family time like this." Ran said flustered and distressed to Yukiko-san.

"Oh Ran-chan, don't worry about it. We really want you to join us."

Ran glanced towards Shinichi for help who simply shrugged his shoulders. Though fireworks of madddening happiness were exploding in his heart.

Good job mom!!!

"Alright then! It's a four-day trip and pack accordingly Ran-chan."

"Yes."

Ran was completely shocked to find that the Kudos had planned to move to America. She felt as if she had been robbed of her breath for a moment but when she found out that Shinichi was going to stay in Japan she felt a trickle of relief in her veins.

He is not going! He is not going to leave me.

As of now, she was in the Kudou mansion and was invited to Shinichi's parent's villa mansion in Karuizawa. The Kudos were planning to move to America at the end of summer vacation. They would be spending time with Shinichi in Japan during the holidays. Knowing that they would be leaving in two months Ran felt distressed about being invited to a family vacation but on Yukiko-san's insistence, she gave in.

Ran and Shinichi's eyes met.

Is this really ok?

Yes. Yes, this is perfect. Shinichi felt his face growing warm and looked away.

These kids really grow up really fast.

Yukiko's eyes gleamed with nostalgia and mischief as she looked at her son sharing a moment with her (future daughter-in-law?).

Hello! Sorry for the late answer.

It's honestly a good question. I will try to answer to the best of my understanding. If I truly have to pick personally..... I dont really ship them as a couple. They are good colleagues but I feel not so great as a couple.

If there are any romantic feelings from Jodie, then they feel kinda one - sided. Her reminiscing about him after his 'supposed death' is obviously an indication but even Camel is shown to be distraught about it, and these two are literally the only other FBI members shown in prominence.... apart from James but since he already knew about it so....

Akai has started to show warmer and gentler expressions now. But before that he was extremely intimidating, cold and distant. It's almost as if the DB, Sera and Shukichi have mellowed him down, but in the 600th Chapter titled 'Akai's past.' the people who have been working with him, unable to read and understand him can see a visible reaction on his face when he was informed of Akemi's death. And even after that he is shown to reminisce about her from time to time. Haibara and Akai both think that Ran is a lot like Akemi

Not to mention he was dating Jodie then he had to infiltrate the BO so the FBI planned to honey trap Akemi but then he genuinely falls in love with her and broke things off with Jodie (as per canon). And even after the identity reveal, it is shown that they somehow were in touch. They found a way talk to one another despite the dangers. Well dating for three years is a healthy amount of time.

More so, Akai is afraid to show his true face to Haibara, he feels guilty towards her because at the end of the day he was somehow responsible for her death. Ai knows that her sister dated an FBI agent 'Dai Moroboshi' but she never knew his face. Him secretly protecting Haibara and looking out for her well being is proof enough how deeply he loved Akemi. He even draws the connection between the similar behavior of the sisters, where they will bring harm to themselves rather than getting the other person get hurt.

Well needless to say I totally ship Akai-Akemi. Obviously it has no prospects but if the author shows Jodie and Akai getting together at the end, I think it will be a forced and not natural.

These are my personal views and I don't wish to offend anyone. Everyone is entitled to feel whatever they like.

But I would like to ask this question to you too.... What do you think about them?

A cool Akai pic for bonus

My problem with the Akai family plot.

The Akai family is definitely one of the most biggest plot holes in the DC world. A few reasons being-

Honey trapping Akemi to infiltrate the BO was always the plan of the FBI. Did the FBI never investigate the background of the Miyano sisters? Like never?

Yes the Miyano couple has been dead for a while now but Mary and Elena were close enough to chat about their daily lives. Like legit Mary had warned them about the organization even before they had joined in. So they never told each other that they have kids?? How can you not know about your own cousin when the mothers are close? Akai, Akemi and Shuichi were already existing. Akai was already in his late teens, so its not like he will forget that info.

This genuinely annoyed me when they were revealed as sisters, like come on Goshyo!!! He literally made that up for no reason.

Even Amuro is a part of this. According to the timeline, Akai had infiltrated the organization 5 years ago (3 years he worked in the organization, got found out and came back 2 years later when Akemi was killed, i.e. current timeline) and as per the flashback, Amuro and Morofoshi were there as well. In that regard Amuro completely failed to protect Akemi. Was their literally no way he could provide safe passage to her?? Because even as a PSB he wanted to protect Haibara in the honor of Elena Miyano. Why was he not committed to protect Akemi as well, she is the elder daughter and someone he has even met?

Even the Akai Gin rivalry has taken the backseat. Akai wanted to investigate the BO because they were somehow related in the death of his father and over that he ended up having a personal vendetta against Gin because he killed Akemi!!! That was such a major crux of the story!!! The tension in the initial chapters is almost palpable when they face off. Akai even calls Gin his 'Lover' out of spite. Now we have two men (Akai and Amuro), who are on the same side, but are not being cooperative!!!

Another point to note is that Akai finds Ran similar to Akemi almost immediately. When he meets Ran in NY, his short temper towards her can be explained that way. He has been found out as a mole in the BO then deported back to US to investigate Vermouth, leaving behind the woman that he loves and her fate being completely uncertain. After working in the BO he most likely knows what her fate is going to be. Then after he comes back to Japan, it is after Akemi's death. Again he meets Ran and attributes Akemi's soft hearted nature with Ran's. He literally says, "You remind of a woman. A stupid woman who was always crying in the dark, while pretending to be casual."

One must truly love someone very deeply if they are reminded of their beloved by random strangers.

Also, it would be nice to see a little more of Akemi. For someone who has played such a massive role, like making Conan much more determined in uncovering BO, Haibara's cause of escape, Akai's determination to take them down, she appears too little.

On this note I would like to end it with a few notes for my Akai-Akemi fanfic-

They will not be blood relatives in my fanfics.

Character studies....(Kind of)

A/N - Hello everyone. Hope everyone is doing well. New Years is around the corners but something else entirely might come knocking at our door so please mask up everybody!

So a few random things came to mind about DC characters.

Goshyo Aoyama has stated in interviews that he likes "strong women" and frankly speaking he has delivered that in various forms. Ran, Kazuha, Sera, Haibara, Eri, Satou and even Yumi not to be taken lightly. While this can be elaborated upon but this post focuses is on the DC men (a few).

Hats off Wataru Takagi is the best man in the entire series.

He is responsible, committed, understanding, loyal and extremely well balanced and patient. He knows how to deal with his personal life, but uphold his duties at the same time. In this aspect, I feel Shinichi, Akai and Amuro lose.

Takagi's journey of winning over Satou is actually very difficult. The loss of her father and Matsuda-kun in the line of duty is terribly painful. She actually saw her father dying and Matsuda was literally blown to pieces right in front of her eyes. Talk about trauma. She knows the hazards of the job which would make anyone reluctant in getting into a relationship with a person who is on field with you. We also see her fear of losing Takagi throughout the series which is also heavily explored in the 25th Movie.

Takagi is understanding of this aspect and doesn't rush her (unlike Shiratori. Shiratori is ready to wait for her but he wanted a permanent mark over her, like an engagement or something. (explored in a Manga case)).

When Takagi comes to know about Matsuda-kun, he completely understands his own position and most of all does not make empty promises. He understands her grief and is patient with her.

The best part is, when they formally enter a relationship, Takagi is fully ready to take all responsibility. He dates her with all the intensions of marriage and living a long healthy life with her. Not to mention he is such a gentleman. He completely lets Yumi and even the detective boys tease him without any signs of aggression.

I genuinely feel that Takagi as a man definitely raises the bar quite high.

Shinichi and Akai on the other hand are the 'sacrificial' type of men. They are so used to logically thinking of things that, even when they are correct it is not always the best outcome.

Shinichi feels like he alone should face the danger and keep everyone safe. He feels its his duty and responsibility. He keeps too many secrets and not just from Ran, he even does that with Hattori. Shinichi talking about the BO with him is quite rare.

Same with Akai, him faking his death like that was genuinely a huge blow to the FBI, not to mention even his mother and sister too believe him to be dead. It must take a huge amount of mental fortitude to willingly subject your loved ones through such grief.

It makes me think these two men need incredibly patient, loving and understanding women as life partners. This trait is certainly fulfilled by Ran and Akemi on a huge extent.

At the start of the series Ran and Shinichi are not dating, heck they don't even know that they have mutual feelings for one another. But even then Ran is uncomplaining over his vague promise of "wait for me." {This can be elaborated upon}.

Akemi on the other hand knew of Akai's intensions, but even then chooses to love him wholeheartedly. She would be the first one to die if Akai ever gets found out (which eventually happens). Despite his deception Akemi accepts him completely and even plays along with it (until its ends up getting revealed by Camel). Needless to say Akai does truly ends up falling for her as well.

For now that's all. There is more obviously but we can have few more posts for that later. Please comment and let me know what do you guys think. I wanted to add more characters but as I said, we can have more posts later!

I don't know if anyone is looking forward to this or not but the next fanfic is going to be Akai and Akemi. I hope you look forwards to it.

A/N - Hello everyone. Please read the previous post to understand the title. It has potential for follow up chapters. Please let me know if you guys want a follow up!

Why does this keep happening to us Shinichi?

Ran pondered. She was leaning by the window sill. It was way past midnight but she couldn't fall sleep. Her eyes were moist and full of tears.

Why are you so mean to me? You liar.....

The more she though of him the more upset she was becoming.

It's not good for me to feel depressed like this, I should go to the park for some fresh air tomorrow.

Ran wiped off her remaining tears and gulped some water and went to bed. It felt cold and desolate.

He is not here to warm me up.

Ran sighed hopelessly feeling her resolve crumble within minutes, a few tears slipped from her eyes but she managed to fall asleep. It was not very restful and she kept waking every hour or so but in the early morning hours sleep had completely overtaken her and she had finally dozed away till noon.

Ran woke up to a grumbling stomach, completely disoriented, sluggish and slightly feverish.

I really need to eat something. It has been a quite a while since I last ate.

She trudged to the kitchen and whipped up some omelettes for herself.

Currently after a huge fight with Shinichi, she was staying at the now semi-vacant home, her mother's residence.

After Shinichi and Ran had gotten married, her parents had taken a rather mature decision, it was to get back together and surprisingly, irrespective of their stubbornness the two were living quite well and even managed to work on cases as well. But not surprisingly, they would still get into fights and sometimes Eri would come back to her old apartment to 'cool off and mentally rejuvenate herself. '

Currently it was Ran who needed it. After her fight with Shinichi, she was the one who needed space. It had been three days since she came here, but she just couldn't seem to control her feelings this time around.

I also need to go to the doctor.

She looked at the watch and it was quarter to one.

I should book the appointment for 2:30 I guess.

******

Ran wrapped herself in her woolens and went to the Beika hospital. It was a cold and windy November. The roads were quite clear as the lunch hour was mostly over. On her way to the clinic she thought about her fight with Shinichi, going over it for the nth time now.

"Why didnt you tell me?!" Ran asked anxiously.

"It really was not much to tell, honestly, I swear, it happened only two or three times." Shinichi tried to talk in a placating tone.

"Two to three times?!? Ran wanted to yell at him but she could only manage a whisper as she paled considerably at his statement and her feet wobbled under her. Shinichi cringed and rushed towards her.

He gently held her and made her sit on the couch and kneeled in front of her so that they were on eye level. Ran had lost all her strength.

"You promised me! You promised me that you will tell me. Why would you hide something like this?!" Ran broke into tears and softly pounded on his chest.

"I was going to tell you, but I also first needed to understand the situation myself, that's why I didnt say anything." Shinichi said slowly, wiping away her tears, his own face a little somber, serious but most of all sincere.

"Why can't I bring myself to believe you?" Ran asked him sadly.

"You will tell me, but only when it is done and over with." Shinichi flinched at her statement, but couldn't argue back.

"Kudo Shinichi, my darling husband, one day might have randomly died, leaving me a widow and I may be the last one to find out." Ran's eyes were blank and glassy still free flowing with tears.

Shinichi's face completely reflected his heartbreak but his body couldn't even move under her grief-stricken gaze.

"I am tired Shinichi." She spoke softly. Ran felt a little dizzy but she went in the bedroom and tried to fall asleep. Shinichi kept kneeling at his place for a while but eventually went back to the bedroom. He looked at her sleeping form, her eyebrows were furrowed and she looked even more pale.

Shinichi bit his lips in distress and his face was shadowed but eventually got in the covers.

I missed you Ran. I wanted to come home to you as soon as possible. But why is it that I make you cry so much when the only thing I want is to see you smile brightly?

He pulled her in an embrace, their warmth mingled and Ran's expression eased up well. Shinichi gently kissed her forehead and they both went off to sleep. Shinichi had woken up late the next morning to an empty bed and an empty home. But the most painful was his terribly lonely heart and he himself was to blame for that.

She had been desperately waiting for him to come back. Shinichi had been called to investigate a case in Sapporo. He was gone for two weeks and in that two weeks Ran had been delighted to find out that she expecting a little guest. She was overcome with joy but held back on telling him on the phone. She wanted to see, the look on his face, she wanted to throw her arms around him and sink into his warmth. Share a gentle and a tender kiss on this newfound knowledge of their upcoming parenthood. She couldn't wait for him to come back.

But it didn't go that way, because she found another thing Shinichi had hidden from her.

The drugs (the poison and the antidote) that he had ingested, sometimes wrecked havoc in his body. Shinichi had randomly started to suffer from phantoms pains, severe fever, muscle spasms and shivers. He would also have dizzy spells and breathlessness. He had discussed it with Ai-chan who had sent a primary investigation report. It was only by chance that Ran came to know about it.

She was stunned and horrified to read the report especially when it listed the possibility of paralysis and necrosis and even death if the cause and symptoms are not dealt with. She had been unable to breath after reading the report, the crippling pain in her chest had completely paralyzed her in fear.

To top it all off when she had confronted him about it, he tried to show nonchalance over the entire thing and tried to brush it under the carpet. Somehow she was so exhausted and tired that this time around she went away from him. Shinichi needless to say had found her in half a day and pleaded her to come home but this time she needed time. She had understood his reasons the last time but she was not ready ready to forgive him this time or maybe because she was too high on her pregnancy hormones. Shinichi settled on giving her some space.

It had been three days since then and he still didn't know about the pregnancy. Ran reached the clinic. It was full of women in their various stages of pregnancies. With a pang she noted that most of them were accompanied by their spouses. Ran sat down in the corner waiting for her turn. When it was her turn to go in a woman screamed. All the patients got worried and the attendant came running. They moved her to the emergency section and proceeded with the emergency procedures to stabilize the woman and the baby. It was close to 3:15 when it was Ran's turn thankfully she had packed some snacks with her so she was not hungry.

She went inside the cabin, "Good afternoon Ayako-sensei." Ran spoke politely.

"Afternoon. Sorry about the previous patient, she has a complicated pregnancy so we are being very cautious with her."

"Oh not at all. It was an emergency. I understand."

"So how have you been feeling?"

*******

After her consultations Ran was a mix of elation and misery. She was very extremely happy but she had to talk to Shinichi and sort this out. She went to a nearby café and warmed up with hot chocolate. With chaotic thoughts coming to her mind she eventually settled with having a proper chat with him. Ran affectionately rubbed her belly thinking of him.

He is such a reckless idiot but I know more than anyone else how much he loves me. Little baby, papa is going to be very happy. I cant wait for all of us to be together again.

She got up and decided on a light stroll in the park near her home and then go back. Due to winters it had gotten dark already though the park was well lit, it was quite and empty. Ran felt a sudden chill down her spine and decided to leave. As she turned towards the exit, she heard footsteps behind her. Ran's instincts kicked in telling her that it was not a 'friend'.

"Hand over you cash missy." Came a gruff voice behind her. It has strongly smelling of alcohol but Ran was frozen because even under her thick coats she clearly felt the sharp edge of the knife digging in her back.

"Ran-san. last time you told me that your husband had taken some very strong unprescribed drugs and we dont know how that has affected his reproductive health."

"Women need to be careful in the first three months of pregnancy but I advise you to take extra caution. Try to be as carful as possible with your movements."

Ran remembered Dr. Ayako's words and stilled. But even before that a motherly instinct had ferociously overtaken her.

I must protect the baby.

"Take whatever you want, but please let me go." Ran spoke with a tremor in her voice.

The man behind me is drunk but aggressive if I do something suspicious he might get violent and randomly attack me.

"Turn around slowly with you hands up in the air." He ordered.

Ran complied and turned to face him. The knife was now digging at her throat and she felt a faint pain, most likely her skin was cut.

"Hand over your phone and the wallet."

Ran complied and handed it over. The phone looked nice and expensive but the robber wanted to check for the cash but for some reason he felt threatened by the woman in front of him.

She was somehow looking afraid and fearless at the same time.

Tch. I better take care of her, she looks like bad news for some reason.

He pocketed her phone and the wallet and glared at the woman in front of him. He felt his pride hurt that the young missy in front of him was keeping eye contact and had not broken down in tears

"Please let me go now."

His glare intensified and Ran flinched when she felt his intension. On instinct she moved back and to the side but the knife ended up slashing her on her upper arm but the man didn't stop there. In a frenzied state he kept attacking Ran. Ran kept one hand on her, protectively on her belly and the with a her other hand kept blocking him with her outside block. The parries continued for a while but now the robber had his vicious gleam on her stomach. Ran felt the danger and before she could think she curled protectively and desperately called out to him.

SHINICHIIII!!!!!

The knife missed her by a hair's breath and Ran took a tumble to the ground where she lay breathing heavily and now shaking in fear. The robber was about to stab her again but suddenly sensed some movement in the bushes and fled. Ran was lying on the ground and took deep breaths to calm herself but it was not working very well.

I need him. I need to talk to him. Shinichi, I really want to see you.

Somehow that thought pushed her and she got up. Her arms and legs felt like jelly and she was trembling all over. Ran took a moment to calm herself and decided to hurry up. If the robber decides to come back and attack again or is waiting for another opportunity to attack her then it wont end well this time.

Pale faced and trembling Ran somehow made it out of the park and managed to reach a convenience store.

"I was attacked, may I please use your phone to call the police?"

"Oh dear of course." It was a middle aged lady in there and when saw Ran she rushed towards her and guided her to sit down and brought a phone.

Ran knew she was supposed to call the police she even knew the number and a lot of police officers too but the one she dialed was someone else, a number she knew by heart.

She heard the ring and she felt her heart throbbing painfully.

"Hello?"

She heard his voice, it sounded slow, cautious and guarded. This was Shinichi's private number and a very few select of people had this number. So a call from an unknown number made him wary.

Ran couldn't speak, her throat was burning and her eyes were glassy. Ran felt that not talking to him and putting distance was definitely more of a punishment to her.

"Hello?" He called again this a time a little louder.

"Shinichi~" Ran called out in a small voice.

"Ran?!?"

"How? Where are you? Which number is this? Are you alright? Is something the matter? Do you know I have calling you, why are you not picking up your phone?"

She heard the worry, the anxiety and the desperation in his voice and her heart ached to be near him.

"Shinichi, I-I-I was robbed in the nearby park and-"

"You were robbed?!?" He nearly yelled. Ideally that should have surprised him because Ran was strong enough to fight off against even armed gang members but his mind always went haywire when Ran was involved.

"Where are you right now? Are you safe? Are you hurt? Is someone with you? I am coming right away."

Ran reassured him, mentioned the address and waited for him. The lady chatted with Ran for a while trying to ease her nerves and gave her a first aid to the slash on her arm. Thankfully it was not very deep due to her thick layers of sweater and a coat.

Little baby, papa is coming. He is going to be here soon and you and I will be safe and warm again.

Shinichi arrived in 15 minutes of the call. God knows how he drove but he came huffing and puffing. Shinichi looked pale and haggard. He rushed towards her and engulfed her in a tight hug, Ran finally breathed in a sigh of relief as well.

"Let's go to the doctor." He declared.

"No let's go home. Please." She spoke softly.

"Of course, Ran. Let's go." Shinichi hugged her tightly again.

Shinichi kept his detective side in check on their way back. and quickly drove home. It was cozy in the car and filled with his familiar scent and before she knew it, Ran had dozed off.

Shinichi was restless the entire day today for some reason. His stomach had been churning ominously as if something bad was gonna happen. He kept pacing in the house because he wanted give Ran some time to think but resisting the urge to bring her back home. But half an hour his anxiety got even worse and then suddenly he felt Ran calling out to him. It was such a desperate plea that he nearly lost it and called her continuously but no one answered making him even more worried. When he heard her small voice on the phone, he couldn't stop himself from trembling in fear.

Now his beloved was dozing off in the car seat next to him. He finally breathed a sigh of relief.

*******

Ran woke up to swaying motion. She opened her eyes to see the side profile of her handsome husband and a sleepy warm smile graced her face. Shinichi gently lay her down in the bed, he sat down next to her and gently caressed her face.

"Ran, I, you-you can be mad at me, ok? You have all the right to be mad at me but please don't go. Stay here. If you don't want to see me then I wont come in front of you but please don't go somewhere else." Shinichi mumbled softly.

"I didn't hide it from you on purpose. I-I just, you get so worried for me and I just end up worrying you even more. I don't want that. Seeing you in pain is just..."

Shinichi stopped talking, unable to finish the sentence, even the thought of it terrified him. His eyes shown a rare vulnerability. It was an expression which he showed only to her.

Ran sat up on the bed and pulled him in a hug which he immediately returned.

"You are such an idiot." Ran mumbled softly. They pulled apart a little and shared a tender kiss. They rested their foreheads against each other, feeling peaceful and content.

"You will be okay, wont you?" Ran asked with a whimper. Shinichi cupped her face with his hands and rubbed his fingers soothingly on her cheeks.

"I promise. I dont know what might happen but I will never ever leave you. I made a promise to you didnt I? Even if I die, I will come back, no matter what." His eyes were shining with utmost sincerity and assurance. Ran didn't look away from him. She placed her hand on top of his brought it to her lips. She kissed the inside of his palms, brought his hand down and placed his hand with hers on her chest over her heart.

"Ok. I believe you." She smiled at him which he returned.

"One more thing-" She added. and rested his hand on her stomach. Now is the time. "-make a promise here as well."

A/N - So for easier writing for the fanfics, I have though of two series names for ShinRan

Butterflies in the stomach - It will be ShinRan fanfics set before the events of Detective Conan. When the two of them know their own feelings but are nervous and hesitant to be around the other person.

Doves in the bedroom - This part will have fanfics regarding their married life, set of course, after the events of Black organization and Ran, knowing the complete truth

So hopefully I will be able to write some wholesome, angsty, bittersweet but romantic scenarios for our lovebirds.

A/N - 2 - I have a few more fanfics planned

Haibara specials

Akai and Akemi specials

Akemi and Shiho specials (Ran with cameo)

Takagi and Satou (maybe?)

Fanshort #2

The summer festival.

*****

"Otou-san we are ready to go. Sonoko has already arrived." Ran called out to her father.

Ran, Sonoko and the kids were going to the summer festival together and since it was little difficult to walk in komonos for the kids they were taking the car and Sonoko had her own driver taking them to Hakase's place.

Hakase had sadly refused to join in because Haibara had refused to let him eat street food.

What's the point of going if I can't even eat the delicacies, Hakase had lamented. And since Ran and Sonoko were going he was rest assured leaving the kids to them.

"Yes yes, I heard you already..." Kogoro grumbled.

"Dont stay out too late at the Pachinko parlour." Ran warned him

"Just go already." Kogoro replied irritably

"Hmmmm." Ran narrowed her eyes at him threateningly.

Kogoro felt a shiver down his spine and paled and weakly added, "I mean have fun with the kids Ran-chan."

Ran nodded in approval and turned to Conan-kun who was distractedly watching the father- daughter duo.

"Let's go Conan-kun." Ran smiled warmly at him and walked ahead. Conan felt his blush deepen and went after her to Sonoko's awaiting car.

"Gomen Sonoko, I was talking to Otou-san...."

"And keeping him in line I suppose." Sonoko finished for her nonchalantly.

Ran simply smiled in response and settled in the car.

"What is this gakinchou? Your face is red, don't tell me you are blushing because Ran is looking pretty and you have fallen in love with her." Sonoko said in mock teasing.

"Mou Sonoko~"

Conan just laughed awkwardly but didn't deny the statement.

"But Ran you sure look beautiful, its a shame that your husband cant meet you this time, he would not have been able to take his eyes off you." Sonoko teased her.

"Sonoko!!!" Ran called out, flushed and embarrassed by her best friend's statement.

Conan's blush refused to go away. Safe to say when he had seen her all dressed up in her Kimono, he had been fully robbed off of his breath and had not been able to take his eyes off Ran. When Ran had asked him how she looked, he was simply tongue tied and somehow managed to squeeze out some compliment. Although, that moment was over he could not help himself and was even now stealing glances at her.

Her hair was tied up in a bun and decorated with traditional hair accessories. Ran wore a purple Kimono with flower patterns of various shades and a cream coloured obi. It brought out her milky complexion and enhanced her shining blue eyes. All in all Ran was looking incredibly beautiful.

They arrived at Hakase's place and got off. The kids were already waiting for them, already dressed in the traditional clothes, Haibara included.

The kids enthusiastically greeted them and had audibly gasped after seeing them and excitedly complimented the elder girls. Ran sincerely returned the compliments while Sonoko just gave her fake high-pitched laugh and declared herself aka, Sonoko-sama as the most beautiful girl.

"Conan-kun why did not wear a yukata?" Ayumi asked, in her pink one.

"Yea you are the odd one out now." Mitsuhiko called out like a mature kid

"I bet, you dont know how to wear one." Genta said with a sense of superiority.

"That's true Conan-kun, even I had asked whether you wanted to wear one?" Ran too chimed in. She was obviously ready to assist him into wearing one.

Conan was the only one in the group who was wearing casual clothes, he awkwardly laughed and tried to give some lame excuse, Ran let him go but the kids were adamant in their childish complains.

Haibara watched the normalcy of these scenes from the sidelines. Lot's of time she always felt like a distant observer of happy things happening around her as her dark past threatened to drag her back to hell but once in a while she allowed herself to indulge in the warm and comfort of the these seemingly mundane things. For example, somehow she had been coaxed by Ayumi and the professor to wear a Kimono. She had vaguely remembered her sister dressing her up in one. It was a thing of the long past but she still felt a dull ache from the hazy memories.

Onee-chan I miss you.

"Shall we leave?" Conan asked, changing the topic which thankfully worked and distracted the kids and brought Ai out of her reverie .

"Ayumi-chan, Ai-chan please wait a moment." Ran called to them.

The younger girls looked puzzled and stopped while the boys seated themselves in the car. Conan glanced back for a moment but smiled to himself and sat down as well.

"What is Ran-oneesan?" Ayumi asked curiously.

"I have something for you both-" Ran fished out something from her pouch, "-here."

She held out two beautiful kanzashis in her hands. A gift for the girls.

Ayumi exclaimed in joy and thanked Ran while Haibara let out a stiff thanks. Ayumi stood patiently as Ran fixed her kanzashi to her hair. She then quickly used her phone to look at herself and was very pleased with the present.

"Ai-chan, do you want me to put it up for you as well?" Ran asked softly.

Haibara gave a stiff nod again.

Again. It's happening again, she thought distressed. Ran gently combed Haibara's hair with her fingers and worked to fix the accessory.

Haibara felt as if she was being cocooned in a warm blanket. Ran's hand were affectionate and tender.

It feels so good and warm to be here. I wish I could stay here forever with these people.

"All done Ai-chan. Here, have a look." Ran passed her, her phone.

Ai looked at the photo and thanked her.

Ran smiled softly at her and they both headed to the car.

Ayumi had happily showed off her accessory and Mitsuhiko and Genta had showered her with compliments, when Ai arrived they did the same.

Once everyone had settled down, Haibara whispered to Conan, "Did you know about this?"

"Well yea, I knew she had got a present and I deduced that it was hair accessory earlier today." Conan said offhandedly and stole a glance at her again.

It was only a short moment, but Ai saw the changes in his expressions minutely. His eyes would go still for moment and then they would be filled with a suppressed joy and sheer adoration. Haibara had seen this look in his eyes countless times already but the intensity of his look never wavered but sometimes she felt that it had gotten stronger. Kudo Shinichi was definitely a sly and a cunning man but even then....

How can you look at her with such endearment? Such purity? Such childlike innocence?

In all honesty these two people baffled her and not to mention her own complicated feelings towards both of them.

In her musings they reached the festival venue.

The car dropped them off at the entrance. It was crowded but well lit and the air was infused with the aroma of the street food and Genta ran off like a hungry puppy with the rest of them chasing after him. The evening was fun and relaxing with food, games, festival trinkets, small souvenirs and scary masks which made Ran turn in the opposite direction.

But then as always trouble came knocking.

There was small commotion. A purse snatcher got caught and in order to avoid arrest, he wildly swung a pocket knife which scared the nearby people and he made a run for it. At this moment he was like an ox charging towards them still swinging the pocket knife. The kids shuffled to the side and Sonoko stood protective before the kids and Ran took her stance in preparation as she studied her charging opponent

"Wait Ran-neechan!" Conan called urgently

Thankfully the crowd had cleared up from the armed man so Conan managed to precisely kick his soccer ball in the man's face and successfully knocked him out.

"Thank you Conan-kun." Ran said, her voice incredibly soft and sweet. Conan went into a daze again and distractedly watched the man being cuffed by a patrol officer who had just arrived.

"I will come to the police box to make the report, Sonoko and everyone, you guys go ahead to the fireworks area. I will come back soon." Ran called out and went after the officer.

"I will go with Ran-neechan as well." Conan hurriedly chased after them. Haibara's eyes lingered after the two figures which had disappeared in the crowd.

Once the report was done Ran and Conan exited the police box. Ran stood confused and looked around.

"Now where was fireworks display ground?" Ran mumbled to herself.

Conan chuckled at her reaction but sighed helplessly as well.

How can you be so endearing?

"Its this way Ran-neechan." Conan pointed out and led the way.

Crowded places like these always had pickpockets and purse snatchers on the move. He had no doubt that Ran was strong enough to protect the kids but wearing a Kimono may restrict her movements and if she does fight it may disarray her clothes. He absolutely didn't didn't want Ran to have wardrobe problems, especially in public places.

Therefore Conan thought of wearing his casual clothes that permitted him to wear his kick power shoes and not to mention.....

Ran looked so lovely in her traditional dress. He didn't want it to be ruined.

It made Shinichi reminisce about his previous 'date' with her. Actually Ran was thinking about it too. Both their faces warm and nostalgic.

The fireworks had already started when they reached but the evening still ended on a wonderful and cheerful note.

A/N - It was mostly supposed to Haibara and Ran, being like an elder sister to her with a dash of ShinRan. I hope you guys like it.

So Gosho Aoyama calls DC a "love comedy" mostly. But the reason Heiji and Kazuha are still not together is simply because Ran will be left out. Throughout the series we have seen couples coming together. Takagi and Satou being another beloved pair then followed by Shiratori and Kobayashi sensei, Chiba and Naeko even Yumi and Shukichi. But these are proper working adults who have gotten together over a period if time. But in ShinRan's case, the two are almost as good as a pair right from the start, but the only reason the two are apart is because Shinichi is in Conan form. Now that the series has progressed this much and all the pairs have properly been fleshed out, even the newer ones like Kansuke and Yui and Yokomizo and Chihaya are pretty much canon, Ran will truly become alone from the love comedy angle. That is why the adult pairs have become stable couples and the younger ones are still not together despite the confessions. ShinRan are obviously together but it is long (short) distance. Sonoko in all actuality got Mokoto as a boyfriend even before Ran and Shinichi confessed to one another, but as I stated Ran should not be "alone" so the two of them are also in a long distance. Thanks to Heiji's petty rivalry with Shinichi and his obsession on finding the perfect spot Heiji and Kazuha have also not gotten together and now that Heiji is aware of his feelings we have the meddlesome Momoji in the scene.

I think this part gets very nicely explored in the op 52 'just believe you' where all the couples get shown together but Conan is searching for Ran who is standing alone, waiting for him and when he finally finds her, he reverts to being Shinichi.

And of course the lovely moment when they reach out for one another!!!

A) He has stated that Shinichi is pretty romantic who likes to properly plan and prepare surprises (for ran >//////<)

A few proofs are

Him planning the desperate revival date. The place where his parents got engaged has got to be one of most romantic places to take his precious person on a date.

The aquarium date, the place was actually suggested by him.

The tropical land date, he was one who suggested it again. (Although Ran blackmail's him a little. But she still has a point though)

The White day present where he actually wrapped it in the Tax envelop but turned out to be white throat lozenges. So yes surprise successful!

B) He likes everything that she cooks. Period. When Aasami-senpai gives Ran the wrong cooking instructions purposely to embarrass her, obviously Ran still tries her best. The lemon pie looks not very appetizing but Conan is the first one to eat it and even compliment Ran, no matter how it looks. It greatly encourages Ran

C) Gosho Aoyama has stated that Haibara actually feels bad for Ran and Shinichi. The drug that she made has separated the two people who love each other very much.

He also stated that Haibara wants to be closer to Ran but feels a little guilty towards her and therefore hesitates to talk to her.