Haus of Headcanon

“So, what’s this plan you have?” she queried, trying to regain some of her cool as she sipped from the bottle of water they picked up after her date with the drainage ditch.

He casually rolled his head over relaxed shoulders, eyes meeting hers with ease, “We’re going to kill Mephistopheles.”

A cumbersome glob of water slipped into her windpipe as she nearly choked in response, “We’re going to do what now?”

“Exactly as a I said.” He replied, eyes focused back on the road.

“Ok, so the grand plan is to just kill Faust? That easy?”

“Eventually, him as well, but I said Mephistopheles.”

“What do you mean? They’re the same person.”

“Not according to folklore.”

“Yeah, but that’s just what it is, folklore-- a legend to make some uppity old bastard feel powerful.”

“And so were superpowers and evil villains, until they weren’t. What do you believe is the point of using these specific names? The theatrics of it all?”

Nanami sat pensively for a second before deciding to entertain this line of questioning,” Hm… Probably to intimidate, I assume.”

“That’s half, the other is to mislead. Think, what would someone with such power need with a legend?”

“… Unless it wasn’t just a legend.” A nagging feeling crept up Nanami’s spine at the implication.” So—and correct me if I’m wrong because this does indeed sound batshit—you’re saying Dr. Faust is really who he says he is and is obvious about it because he wants to hide a whole ass demon?”

“It may sound, as you say ‘batshit’, but it makes perfect sense when you put it into context. After all, what did you do the second you found out the full extent of your powers? “

“… Hid them in plain sight.” She reluctantly replied as the theory, however bizarre, was beginning to make sense.

“Precisely.” Seeing she wasn’t fully convinced, he continued, “This Mephistopheles may not be a literal demon per se, but it’s entirely possible he’s another, much more powerful quirk user playing into this folklore narrative. He may have even created it himself.”

“I suppose if you had the ability to give a power like the one Faust has, it would make the most sense to hide in myth rather than fight off every Joe, Jack, and Harry looking to have their wish for power granted.” Nanami responded, now buying into the idea that there may be a larger force at play. It felt like when she was thrust into the underworld overnight all over again, the fear of the unknown being replaced with the anxiety of the inevitable. If they were going to go with this theory— engage the folklore as reality, they’d have to start somewhere tangible. “We need to do some research on this first. Even if this is all true, our knowledge of the legend itself is surface-level at best.”

“Which is exactly why we’re going on a trip. Be sure to clear your schedule this weekend.”

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Nanami took a deep breath, allowing the hot water to relax joints and muscles that had been getting all the wrong action from the past couple weeks of double shifts and being on-call. Her quarantine was necessary, especially given what they’d learned, but it did nothing for her workload which predictably spiked upon her return. Things were beginning to calm down but judging by the dark circles threatening to emerge under her tired eyes, a break was still in order.

Stepping out of the shower her phone lit up and she quickly realized much more time had gone by than she meant to. Fumbling through familiar icons, she opened her messages.

Hitomi: Hey girl 😊 I think I’m outside the place, could you come down and let me in?

Nanami: omg I’m so sorry! I just got out the shower, but if you give the doorman my number I can buzz you up.

Hitomi: … Doorman? Your new place is cute but…

Nanami: but what? >:(

Hitomi: The place I’m at is a reg apartment building. Maybe the skystabber next door would have one, but I don’t see one here

Nanami: is the skystabber white and the place you’re in front of brownish grey?

Hitomi: Yeah

Nanami: well I live in the skystabber

Hitomi: ???

Nanami: idk what to tell you

Hitomi:… gimme a minute.

As mixed as her feelings were about her new digs, Nanami couldn’t help but flex ever-so slightly considering there was only a very short list of people who were allowed to know where she lived now. Wrapping herself in a robe, a knock came at the door and she hurriedly shuffled over to unlock the 3 deadbolts after checking the peephole. Seeing one of her favorite faces through the other side, she opened it, “Hey! Sorry for checking my phone so late, I’ll be ready in a minute and then we can go shopping—for real this time, no work interruption or anything.” She began as she quickly shuffled back in the direction of her room, disappearing down a hallway. Now getting dressed, she called from her room to her friend, now noting the uncharacteristic silence, “Do you want some water or someth—”

Nanami peaked her head out to speak, but stopped short upon seeing Hitomi’s face, now fixed in a grimace,” I can’t believe you.”

Brows knitting upward, Nanami quickly racked her brain for all her offenses Hitomi could be referring to, a twinge of guilt creeping in as she thought a bit too hard about all her offenses in general. Before she could overthink further, she continued, “I can’t believe you went and got a sugar daddy and didn’t even bother to hook up your best friend. Unforgiveable.”

“A SUGAR WHOMST?” she asked incredulously, now being fully caught off-guard.

“Oh, don’t play dumb with me, Frugal McDougall. There’s no way a veteran penny pincher like you would ball out like this. Who is he and why haven’t you introduced me to any of his friends?”

Stunned, Nanami stood there before bursting into a fit of laughter. Of course, to the naked, non-underworld entangled eye that’s what it looked like, but she’d never thought of it that way. Her belly laugh persisted as Hitomi carried on with her rant, and Nanami remembered how grateful she was to have ties to the outside world. The world outside the whirlwind of chaos that had consumed her life for the past year. In her teary-eyed, coughing state, she ambled over to her still-animated friend, embracing her in a bear hug, burying her face into her shoulder, remembering what normalcy smelled like.

Hitomi continued her tirade before slowing as she felt the fabric of her blouse dampen, gently clinging to her clavicle where her friend’s head lay. “Wait, are you crying? No, no, no don’t cry! I was just kidding (kind of, because if you have a connect, I would still like to know), but I didn’t mean anything by it. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine you absolute jackaloon. I just missed you and this. A lot.”

“I... I’m not getting what’s happening here—and I am neither a jack nor a’loon, but I missed you too,” She responded sincerely as Nanami reigned in the waterworks enough to raise her head, seeing a smile she realized now she’d give her left kidney for.

“Well good, because there’s a lot to tell, and I’ve got the rest of the afternoon to catch up and talk your ear off.”

“No arguments here. Now hurry up and finish getting dressed while I rassle up some mimosas. We’ve got work to do.~”

The pair shared a leisurely breakfast over mimosas before starting their walk towards the outdoor mall near Nanami’s new place. Though it wasn’t as crowded as ones by the stations, they were pleased to window shop and visit the smaller boutiques. Thanks to her strict training regimen over the past year, Nanami had bulked up, gaining more muscle than some of her clothes could accommodate, and needed to refresh her wardrobe.

“If you’ve got it, flaunt it” Hitomi remarked while Nanami looked herself over in the mirror sporting a dress that was much more revealing than she was used to.

“Ok, but what if I don’t got it?”

“Girl, hush. Your body’s got more cuts in it than a delicatessen. Besides, what’s the point of working out so hard if not to feel and look good?”

Not getting abducted, being able to fight off assailants, etc… “Well, there’re plenty of other reasons but I guess you’re right.”

“Of course, I am! Now let’s get this cute little number and head out. Think we can catch an early dinner before your trip tomorrow?” Hitomi tempted, her eyes bouncing between Nanami and the phone she held up displaying a wine bar nearby, eyebrows wiggling.

“Fine, fine. If you’re gonna twist my arm about it, I guess I have no choice but to have a relaxing dinner with one of my favorite people,” Nanami jested as she took a last look in the mirror.

“So, I’m only ‘one of’ your favorite people now, huh? I wonder who could’ve edged their way into that category,” Hitomi mused half-jokingly, knowing how reserved— and some would say guarded, her friend could be. Looking up after a couple moments of no response, she could see a far-off look in Nanami’s eyes, as though she’d thought of something or someone very specific in that moment. Never one to resist the opportunity to tease, she prodded, more purposefully now,” I wonder if it’s that hot older doctor you work with? Wait no, he’s married—oh, oh maybe that cute barista at the tea shop? Nah, too easy.” She continued to guess as Nanami turned to enter the dressing room again, though Hitomi could hear her friend subtly sigh disapprovingly at her previous guesses though the curtain. However, she couldn’t resist continuing as her best friend had yet to deny the implication that there was someone else living rent free in that head of hers. “Hm... who else could it be… Someone you probably spend a lot of time with, who is almost as devastating as me… Wait a second, aren’t you still doing research with that tall, menacing, and handsome lab partner of yours?” She asked nonchalantly before recognizing the distinct silence now coming from the dressing room. “Oh my gosh, it is him isn’t it?”

The silence continued, though small shuffling could be heard before the dressing room curtain was thrust open, her silver hair conveniently providing a second curtain to hide her now-flushed face. Refusing to make eye contact, she marched toward the register with her items in hand before politely greeting the shop worker who would check her out. She tried to keep her gaze forward, but she could feel the looming presence behind her.

“Let’s see, last time I saw you run into him you were almost as red as you are now, did something change may haps?”

“Yes, thank you I will take a bag” Nanami responded to the shop keeper’s question, ignoring Hitomi’s more-difficult ones.

“Something definitely happened. What was it? Too many longing stares? No, you guys were already doing that when I first saw him…”

“Yes, thank you— we’ll be sure to visit again soon!” She continued with her attempt to tune her friend out.

“Maybe a tender embrace? No, no you wouldn’t be this flustered about that... But maybe you guys took things to the next level and upgraded that partner title to, ya’know, partners” She intoned suggestively, noticing Nanami once again stop in her tracks, now outside the store on the sidewalk. “Wait, he’s your boyfriend?!”

As Nanami was about to turn to respond, she felt a gust of wind and a shoulder slam into hers as someone rushed by, a shout from her friend coming shortly after “Hey! He’s got my purse!” Before she could register her own response, Nanami took off after the thief catching up to him after only a couple yards. Running slightly passed him, in a swift move she turned to face him, crouching down as she lunged forward. Bracing her arm and shoulder, the force of his momentum hitting her knocked all the wind out of him. The thief doubled over after she landed a swift blow to his neck, causing him to pass out. In quick form, Nanami grabbed the purse from his under his crumpled form before walking briskly back to Hitomi. She made sure her head  was turned away from the bystanders that caught a glimpse of the skirmish and the others who were beginning to crowd around the indisposed thief.  Handing the purse back, Hitomi now stared at her in a mixture of shock and fascination before Nanami responded, hoping to get out of sight as soon as possible, “My boyfriend taught me—and yes, I’ll tell you more about it over dinner. Now can we please get out of here before a hero comes?”

“With moves like that, who could argue with you?”  Hitomi laughed incredulously as they escaped the forming crowd.

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A warm satisfaction wriggled its way through languid cords of muscle and tendon as Nanami stretched in response to hearing her second-to-last alarm. Her night with Hitomi had proved much more painless than she’d imagined after letting the “yes, I have a boyfriend-and he is definitely normal” cat out of the bag, though dodging the suspicion and guilt around hiding the relationship were considerably more difficult to navigate. Rolling over, fingertips found the offending object, squinting through the bright light of the screen to gauge how much time she’d have to get ready before their trip.

“Our” trip, huh… Nanami intoned internally, remembering that in … exactly 53 minutes. I can make that work, she and Chisaki would be enroute to their weekend getaway, though most would akin it to more of a study date. A study date which naturally required Nanami to consider packing her little black dress, Just in case… She reasoned before promptly remembering why they needed to go in the first place. A small roll of anxiety unfurled itself in her stomach as she remembered just how little they had to go on in the way of tangible evidence, much less an inkling as to the location of the real Mephistopheles. It was one thing to test a theory when there’s documentation and proven science to lean into, but here they were, about to stake their lives on an allegory. Life teaching me a lesson. How original.  

She tried her best to stifle the bitter thoughts that ensured her whatever suffering and hardships came her way were deserved. The thoughts that confirmed her worst beliefs about herself and the future. The void of pessimism that disguised itself as logic proven by a hard life. Her life being the butt of a cautionary tale seemed like a cruel joke. Nonetheless, she pulled from a familiar well of strength—too scared to check how much was left and drowned the thoughts in it. Burying them once again. She was tired, but there was work to do.  

Now feeling sufficiently overwhelmed, she grabbed a fistful of duvet to bury herself in, deciding to let the last of the alarms do its job in fifteen minutes, savoring the last of her rest. As the apartment was once again silent save for her soft breathing as sleep took hold, she heard the elevator bell for her floor ring. Immediately assuming she’d overslept, she leapt out of bed in a panic, scurrying down the hall to the front door hoping to mitigate the damage by at least showing she was up. Upon entering the kitchen, she saw him setting down a bag and two cups that smelled like breakfast, her eyes fixating on what looked like heaven and eggs. As she was focused on the bag, he’d lifted his gaze to take stock of her, doing a double-take before assessing the familiar visage fully.

Her eyes were heavy-lidded, a wrinkle beginning to form beneath them from working late. Her chestnut skin was smooth and glowing from hard-won rest. The large windows now streaming in natural light to her apartment making the whisps of silver hair that slipped from under her bonnet shimmer as they framed her face. She stepped out of the doorway, her shoulders slowly relaxing, looking every bit the angel he’d fallen in—Wait, what is this… “feeling” the thought crossed his mind before he could capture it. Shaking off the trance, he slowly removed his mask, folding it neatly into his pocket to give her his full attention. He cleared his throat, now reassured that seeing this vision of her was much better in person than in daydreams or memories.

Judging by his stunned silence, Nanami was sure she must have looked like a hot mess. I knew I should’ve gotten up earlier, but no I just had to get in those extra minutes like there wouldn’t be plenty of time to sleep in the car. She chastised herself inwardly knowing he certainly wouldn’t forget the sight now seeing it twice, though she had once again thoroughly misjudged why. Quickly straightening her sleep shirt that insisted on sliding down one of her shoulders and riding up one of her legs, she fidgeted under his gaze, wishing he would say something—anything—and put her out of her misery. She decided to speak first, unable to stand the silence any longer though it had only been seconds. “Hey! I’m so sorry, I thought I was just resting my eyes for 5 minutes and totally overslept,” she spluttered to explain herself, but he remained silent, his eyes were glued to her. “Good news is I packed last night so once I get dressed, we can leave immedia—"

“May I kiss you?”

Stunned for a moment, Nanami registered what he’d said. It wasn’t long after seeing his complete lack of irritation that she was going to make them late, that she noticed his gaze contently bouncing between her eyes and lips as she went to wet them reflexively. It was in even shorter order that she remembered her feelings when she’d been in this position before, though she wasn’t being offered then what she wanted as she was now. Gulping, she attempted to trust her shaky voice to answer, “Ye—” he gingerly ran his hand along her neck feeling her jawline atop his thumb making her limbs weak, “Y-Yes, you may.” Not wanting to wait any longer, he craned downward, brushing his nose with hers as his lips followed soon after. Tenderly massaging her lips between his, it became apparent he was a quick study, deepening it with a broad hand that snaked up her back causing her to shiver. Just as she felt the coil of heat wriggle its way through her core, he broke the kiss, pleased with the blissfully dazed look now on her face.

“Thank you, and good morning,” Chisaki responded softly though it hit her like a palette of bricks.

“You’re very welcome” She couldn’t stifle the chuckle that erupted at his undying formality though her heart continued knocking against her ribcage. I’m definitely gonna pack that dress now.

“Also, you don’t need to apologize. I’m early.”

“Phew thank goodness, I don’t know if I could bear being judged in a car for 3 hours straight.”

“3 hours and 57 minutes, there’s traffic.”

Making a face at him, she grabbed the coffee from his now-waiting hand,” Anyway, where exactly are we going? I was looking through all the major libraries with older texts and they’re not that far.”

“That’s because they don’t have the oldest. At least none of the ones we need. After doing some research of my own— “

“Were any people injured during the making of this research?”

“That is entirely beside the point.”

“So, a hard yes. Continue.”

“As I was saying, there seems to be a small town with a particular library known for possessing more obscure, but valuable texts. I believe there is where we’ll find the first clue to the real Mephistopheles’ location.”

“What’s it called?”

“Hihō.”

“Really…It’s called Hihō? That’s strange.” Nanami’s brow furrowed as the name struck familiar.

“How so?” He questioned, taking a sip of his cup.

“That was the name of my parents’ main research lab. And they’d name all kinds of things that… I just figured they liked the name, never knew it was a place.”

“Hm. Then it is true they say about coincidences…”

“And what’s that?”

“I promise I’ll keep a low profile, just let me come with you.” Nanami entreated as she sat at the kitchen island. Overhaul was cleaning up after dinner, his back turned as she made her case.

“This is not a casual outing, I’m meeting with a contact and he doesn’t appreciate extraneous variables, which, in this case, would be you.”

“And when have you ever cared about what other people do or don’t appreciate?”

He paused, turning to her, setting down a cleaned dish and folded towel, “Flattery is appreciated, but it will not get you out of this house before Sunday.”

She pouted before trying a different angle, “But strategy might, right?” He knitted his brows, folding his arms across his chest, a silent tell that he was just bored enough to entertain her pitch, “Hear me out—though indirectly, you’ve been targeted by the Okamura—a rival org, right? Wouldn’t it be nice to have some back-up just in case they find out you’re meeting this contact and decide to strike before the raid can happen?”

“That’s what the Precepts are for.”

“Sure, but they might send the wrong message. If I was meeting somebody under the pretext of civil conversation and they brought along backup that looked like Rappa or Kurono—I’d feel pretty threatened. But me? You’d hardly even know I was there. Besides, it’s not like I’m the most physically intimidating person to begin with anyway.”

He looked down thoughtfully as he considered her proposal. Nervous he might still reject the idea, she chewed her lip, waiting for his response. Just as the feeling of defeat seemed imminent, he answered, “We’re leaving at noon. Wear your hair differently and dress in muted colors. If you’re not ready by 11:59 exactly, I’m leaving you behind.”

She beamed before quickly reeling her excitement back in, “Understood. I’ll be right here and ready to go at 11:59am, sharp.”

Though the two-week sequestration at his house was nearing its end, Nanami was beginning to get stir-crazy. Overhaul had been working long hours, strategizing the retaliation against the Okamura, knowing that taking them down would be much more complicated than simple massacre. On the other hand, Nanami knew even after the raid, she’d have to limit her time in public and remain especially vigilant for months to come until the dust fully settled. Though it may have only been a trip to the park to exchange information, it would probably be the most amount of time she’d get to be outside for a while.

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Nanami awoke from a light sleep, having been too excited about the outing. She wasn’t naïve enough to believe it was without its dangers and that the possibility of her having to spring into action wasn’t real, but given the circumstances, she thought it wise to take what little joy she could when she could.

Rummaging through her luggage she tried to keep in mind his wardrobe mandates as she reluctantly passed over a myriad of cute, but boldly-colored clothing. A look of self-satisfaction crossed her face as she assembled a fitting ensemble and quickly got dressed. Trotting out of her room at 11:55 she carried her shoes to the entrance way, slipping them on as she heard him emerge from his room. Looking up she saw surprise in his eyes as he stopped a distance away from her. Slipping on the other chunky sandal, she stood up straight showing her full outfit, hoping he’d approve. She’d chosen a casual, sage dress with subtle ruffles and her favorite oversized, beige cardigan just in case it got chilly. Her hair was done in a low braid that went over her shoulder and to the front, a few wisps of hair loose on the opposite side making her look softer than her usual professional get-up. He wore his usual black dress shirt, slacks and dust mask to do his version of blending in. Noticing his silence, she panicked momentarily, worried she’d made the wrong choice in clothing and he’d make her stay put, “Do I need to change? Sorry, I’ve obviously never done this before, but I’ve got other outfits if this doesn’t wo—”

“No. Don’t change.” He replied a bit too quickly before clearing his throat and continuing, “You look…” he trailed off as his eyes continued to rake over her,” …This outfit will work. Let’s get going.”

“Oh ok, great— right behind you!”

They made their way to the car, a skip in Nanami’s step as she felt like a kid being taken out for ice cream, though instead of ice cream it’s intel for a hit job and some sunshine, but to-may-toes, to-mah-toes ~. The drive was relatively short, though it was hard for her to tell. Time flew while she gazed out the window, enjoying the overcast weather and seeing people out-and-about.

Parking, they exited the car, as Overhaul surveyed the area and checked his watch. “He should arrive in the next 15 minutes. Follow me.” He walked briskly to a bench overlooking the river that ran through the park. For a Saturday, it was relatively calm and empty, save for a few joggers running by and couples gazing at the holiday decor and the last of the fall foliage without a care in the world. Food trucks lined the other side of the river as people ate small treats.

After he went through his usual ritual to santize the seat, they sat down and waited patiently for the informant to arrive. Five minutes passed, then ten, and then twenty. It was obvious Overhaul was beginning to get irritated at the tardiness, his knee bouncing as he checked his watch for what felt like the umpteenth time. On the other hand, Nanami was beginning to get bored, staring dreamily across the river at one truck in particular. Sighing, she decided to go out on a limb and ask hoping it might lighten the mood,” So… do you wanna—“

“No.”

“You don’t even know what I’m gonna ask,” She retorted to his stern answer, completely undeterred.

“Yes, I do. You’ve been staring at that crepe truck since we sat down. As I said before, this isn’t some casual outing and patronizing a food truck is the very definition of casual.”

“It’s not like I’m gonna skip over there and play in the leaves while I stuff my face—it’ll just be a quick breakfast/brunch and then we’re back sitting down, waiting patiently and ~incognito~. Besides, I know you’re hungry, probably not the best idea to do something stressful on an empty stomach anyway.”

“And how long have you been formulating that rebuttal?”

“Mm, about as long as you’ve been stealing glances over there, thinking I was too busy staring myself. It’s ok to indulge every now and again, and we’ll have a clear view of this spot in case he comes by while we’re up.” She reasoned, knowing he couldn’t deny logic or his grumbling stomach.

“… Fine. Let’s make this quick.”

Before he could finish, she hopped up and made a b-line towards the bridge nearby as he reluctantly followed after her. They ordered crepes, the decadent, cute concoction providing a comical contrast to her partner’s otherwise intimidating aesthetic. Nanami bit her lip, trying not to laugh as she promised herself she’d describe the visage in great detail to Kurono later. Hers wasn’t very conservative either, smothered with a superfluous amount of strawberries, chocolate syrup, and powdered sugar that kept the all-black clad Overhaul at a safe distance. They made their way back to the bridge, Nanami admiring the scenery as the auburn-tinted leaves made their descent to the water below.

Sitting back down, there was still no informant in sight, though a comfortable silence fell upon them as the sounds of birds chirping and the river flowing gently filled the air. Pulling out a small bottle of hand sanitizer from her bag, she put a dollop into his waiting hand and then her own after he disposed of his used gloves in the plastic bag she’d brought, replacing them without a word. He handed her extra napkins and a wet wipe, fully aware she was a messy eater. They’d gotten into a routine having eaten together so often that now words were no longer needed, neither of them able to fully remember what it had been like before the other. She let her eyes wander as she took another bite, until she settled on watching the leaves fall. The descent of one in particular caught her eye as the golden leaf danced lazily through the air before finding its resting place atop his head. Knowing full well how very unwelcome he’d find the accessory; she decided to do the right thing and alert him.  

“Overh—” She stopped short, realizing it probably wasn’t the best idea to use his villain name in public. It wasn’t the most dire of situations but, she was very aware that they’d never referred to each other by name At least not while sober anyway... She agonized for a moment on how to address him, unaware she’d already gotten his attention.

Seeing the conflict in her features, he responded simply, “Chisaki is fine, or Kai if you’d like.”

Her eyes went wide before quickly looking away, flustered at what felt like a very intimate moment. She’d only heard two people refer to him by name and even then, it was seldom—only twice between the two of them to be specific. It felt like she held a grave secret simply by knowing it, much less casually addressing him by it. Well, if he says so…  

“Ch-Chisaki…” she swallowed, as he regarded her calmly, though his eyes had a glint in them as soon as she uttered his name.

“Yes?” He coaxed, unconsciously leaning in closer.

“There’s a leaf on your head.” He went to grab it though his hands were full, his fork in one and the crepe in the other, finding the thought of touching a dirty leaf and then his eating utensil repulsive. He considered his options for a moment before she offered her assistance motioning him to lean down so she could reach. He paused for a moment, before acquiescing, lowering his head to be within reach. She grabbed the leafy offender gently, holding it betwixt her fingers, “Got it.”

Looking between him and the leaf, a candid smile formed as she noticed it matched his eyes. He lifted his head back up, admiring the visage. By all accounts, she was physically beautiful to him, but what he savored most in this moment was her smile. He remembered being equally touched by that radiant smile when they met at the tea shop almost a year ago, though he would have never admitted it back then. Their circumstances had seemingly changed for the worst, yet it hadn’t dimmed; it was though it refused to. Chisaki had never been a sentimental, nor particularly emotional man, but her resilience was nothing if not captivating to him. In his weary eyes, Nanami was the picture of strength. She possessed a power—not from brawn, cunning or some misguided self-righteousness, but something else entirely. He found himself drawn to it, to her competence and constant challenge. What others had readily accepted out of fear, she appraised, demanding more. Though her hands shook momentarily, she’d steady herself without fail, demanding him to be more. He felt proud knowing she’d be the one by his side on this path. Until someone else discovers her. And then what? What if that radiance is directed at someone else someday? He didn’t want an answer to that question. He had waited long enough; the decision having been made long before he was fully aware of it. His face was blank, though he imbued his words with as much sincerity as he was capable of, “Go out with me.”

Her smile persisted for a beat as she fully registered what he’d said. Then it promptly dropped, her eyes going wide as the leaf was blown out of her now-limp grasp.

“Ahem. Sorry for the lateness,” a man said from the bench next to them as he continued to face forward. Chisaki kept his gaze fixed on Nanami as hers shifted to what was behind him.  Hm guess the movies are actually kind of accurate about this kind of stuff… she commented inwardly as the man was dressed in a baseball cap, glasses and hoodie. “I’ll leave what you asked for here.” He continued, patting an envelope placed on the bench before rising.

“First you come late, and now you rush off? That’s not how this is going to go. Sit down, I have more questions for you.” Overhaul chided, shaking himself from their little moment, still finding time to be peeved that he’d been made to wait.

“Look, I’m sorry but I have to go,” the man began rather nervously as he glanced around,” No amount of money or threats could get me to stay. I don’t know how you got involved, but I don’t want anything to do with this shit. I got you the intel, I’m out.”

Nanami rose hoping to calm the man down. At the angle she sat, her form was hidden from the man by Overhaul’s larger frame, and it was painfully obvious when she came into his line of sight. The man flinched like he’d seen a ghost, turning white as their eyes met. “G-get the fuck away from me,” he sputtered almost tripping over himself. It was truly a sight to behold as a grown man scurried away, terrified of a person half his size. “Here’s a last bit of intel, I’ll give this one on the house: if you’re smart, you’ll stay away from her.” He continued, leering at Nanami, “I haven’t seen a bounty this high in a long time and I’m sure whoever’s paying out knows they’ll get their money’s worth. She’s probably worst than the rest of us; a true monster.”

Though his brow furrowed questioningly for a moment, in the next Overhaul had decided he’d heard enough and was making a move toward the man. His gloves were already discarded, but a tug on his sleeve kept him in place, “Let go.” He seethed through gritted teeth.

“No, it’s not worth it. He’s right.” Came a small but firm voice.

He turned to see a familiar small hand gripping him. Her head was hung low, though guilt was obvious in her countenance. By the time he had taken in her appearance, the man was disappearing through the trees, vanishing from sight. As his rage ebbed momentarily, a nostalgic feeling took its place as he remembered her face when he asked her the question that had been on his mind for months now: rejection. He snatched away his arm in a move that startled her out of her own trance, “Fine.”

Grabbing the envelope, he turned on his heel, making a b-line for the car. He strode to the parking lot, no longer abating his usually wide gait for her to keep up. As he reached out for the handle of the car, the distinct sound of her shoes hurriedly beating the pavement became louder before coming to a stop behind him.

“I… I’m sorry.”

“I don’t need your pity.”

“It’s not pity, I could never pity you. I just… I shouldn’t have let it get this far without being honest with you.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore. I misread our relationship. It’s over now.”

“But I—wait, what do you mean you ’misread our relationship’?”

“You know what I mean. The least you could do is refrain from dragging it out.” He intoned, a poorly hidden look of hurt in his eyes.

She had expected anger, maybe even disappointment that she’d still kept such a large secret from him but hurt had never crossed her mind as an emotion he’d ever display, much less in this situation. She’d never told a soul about her real past and wanted to be absolutely sure before breaching that barrier. I know it was wrong, but if anyone understood secrecy, I thought it would be him. I mean why does he look like he just got dumpe—“Oh my fucking gosh. This is all a big mix up, this is what I get for being all cryptic and vague,” she chided herself, rubbing the bridge of her nose in frustration.

“Don’t worry, you’ve made yourself perfectly clear.”

“No, no, you don’t get it, this is one of our trademark Misunderstandings™!”

“There is nothing to misunderstand. I assumed you had feelings and that assumption proved to be… foolish. I won’t make that mistake again.”

“Just let me explain,”

“I don’t want to, nor do I need to hear i—”

Before he could turn away, she closed the distance between them, reaching up to grab his face in her hand. He was startled by the abrupt contact after she’d made it a point to be cognizant of his boundaries, but she noted he made no efforts to move away or resist her. If she weren’t so riled up, she could’ve sworn she could feel the slightest bit of pressure as though he’d decided to rest his chin in her palm. Good, because I plan on touching way more in the future… she confirmed to herself, enjoying the feel of his square jaw in her palm before locking eyes with him to speak.

“You didn’t misread anything,” she corrected as confidently as she could before continuing. “But you need to hear me out. What I meant to say was this: I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have let it get this far without being honest with you because I want to be closer… I want us to be closer. I didn’t know if you felt the same, so I didn’t know what to say when you asked the first time… but I do now. So, ask me again. Please.”

He looked at her searchingly, taking a centering breath, “Nanami, go out with me.”

“That’s more of a command,” she amended. His eyes narrowed in annoyance, though his glare lost much of its usual edge with his cheeks squished between her fingers, “but I’d love to, Kai.”

Upon hearing her answer and his name, his hardened gaze softened, and she reluctantly let him go, “Let’s go home.”

As they entered the car, his usual slouch was replaced with a more confident posture, though Nanami still felt a heavy weight upon her shoulders, “Hey… about the whole honesty thing… I still do need to tell you something.”