#|ic|koko

Why did he have to get involved in this type of game? Couldn't people mind their own business? Either way, someone was getting hurt- Whether emotionally or physically. There's a sigh of frustration, a hand running through his hair while his free hand moves to rest on his hip. "Do I really have to answer this?.. It's a childish game, and it's stupid. But if I have to answer..."

Koko had been caught up in shuffling through the papers on his work desk at home, needing a break from the Bonten headquarters when Ran and Sanzu kept going at it. This usually resulted in him occasionally bringing the paperwork home, which didn't help with the stress except for when Inui managed to get him out of it to take a break.

When he looks up, he figures it wasn't super important but Inui always got his attention anytime Koko could put it on him. Except, this was the first time he wished he hadn't. The expression matching the bored, almost lifeless tone, the entire song sent a chill down Koko's spine. Not in a good way. In fact, Koko wouldn't say it but he couldn't wait for the song to be over this time.

As she watches her little brother bite into a heart-shaped lollipop, she turns to his best friend and teasingly asks: "What about you, Hajime-kun? Did a cute girl give you anything this year? I'm sure a sweet boy like you must be very popular."

Koko turned and looked at the eldest of the three, giving a 'hmph' before looking away again as they walked home. "I don't need any of that stuff. It's pointless." Okay, maybe he didn't really think that but what else was he going to say? He wasn't actually really all that popular with the girls, especially since majority seemed to go for Seishu instead. Not that he minded, since he had ever really only thought of Akane, but he wasn't going to say that outloud at this point.

Koko picked up the candle, staring as his eyes look over the shape and description along with the overall appearance. "Such an ugly gift." While he wasn't much a fan of candles, he guessed he appreciated the sentiment of someone caring enough to get him something at least. Even if it was more than a bit odd. Looking over at the note closeby, his free hand picked it up and read over the words. Of course, it was that annoying idiot. He should've guessed.