Hey, I decided to try something different thanks to a plot bunny that wouldn't leave me alone. This is a Death Note story. Ahead of time let me just say that sorry if L is OOC a little in this chapter. This was my attempt at pairing him with an OC hopefully it turns out okay. My OC, Lena Spenser worked with L previously to solve cases so they know each other pretty well. The story picks about a day or two before the 'Lind L. Taylor' plan because I wanted Lena to be there for that. Also, feel free to ofter suggestions for the story if you want I kind of know where it's going but i'm always open to ideas.

Hope you enjoy and tell me what you think ~Serria Spell23. I don't anything but the plot and Lena.

Ch.1-Requesting a Confidante

I walked around my flat a deep-seeded frown on my face. My caseload had been stagnant as of late. They lacked vitality and intellectual stimulation. Sighing, I flopped onto the sofa crossing my legs. I glanced at the TV—the volume half-muted on the verge of white noise. News reports played ongoing coverage of the "Kira" attacks in Japan—no doubt inducing paranoia. Since they had no idea who the killer was presently smoking 'em out was the option the police were most likely to take.

The phone rang and I fully muted the TV to prevent disruption. Lifting it to my ear, I opened my mouth to speak, however, the person on the other line cut me off without missing beat. "Do you want to assist me in the investigation, I sense you're in a bit of a rut?"

"Ahh! How do you do that!? Anyway, is that even allowed?" I asked balancing the phone between my shoulder and my cheek as I sat on the arm of the couch. My foot tapped on the floor from habit needing to dispel the nervous energy.

I heard a small chuckle. "You don't need to be so overly cautious, dear. It is merely an offer…i'm unconventional anyway, don't worry."

Attempting to choke down a retort that would earn subtle teasing later from the man I was conversing with, I put a hand over my mouth. A few moments passed in silence before I decided I'd risk it. "Better overly cautious than overly confident I admire your ambition but that's your greatest fault…"

"To what do you refer, dear?"

The detective seemed genuinely confused by me saying his pride and recklessness was a fault. But he could not be reasoned with the majority of the time.

I sighed. "Never mind, be careful, L." I had avoided mumbling his most common alias for the entire conversation because that was a line of familiarity I did not want to cross if I was to be 'his partner' of sorts while working on the Kira case—remaining emotionally detached or least attempting to was the only hope for both of us.

A stilted, awkward pause came between us until he broke it. "Um…when can I expect you? I made travel arrangements for your convenience."

Flushing from the sudden irritation L's brazen remark had caused, I rolled my cerulean eyes, running my fingers through my— still damp mousy brown hair— from my shower ten minutes ago and twisted my lip. "You just assume I'm coming…I rest my case your trademark cockiness will be your downfall," I retorted.

"If you say so, dear. However, I do know that your resolve is wearing thin despite your initial refusal. You're intrigued."

Shaking my head, I shrugged weakly. "I suppose I have no choice, do I? Can you at least tell me when my flight's leaving so I know if I need to dash out the door?"

My friend laughed again. "You needn't worry I booked it for tomorrow afternoon three p.m. your time."

A gentle smile graced my lips and the stress I'd felt a moment ago ebbed away slightly. "Thank you."

L offered me an unseen nod. "Of course. Now, I've kept you long enough get some sleep before tomorrow. Goodnight."

I sensed the detective maybe wanted to say my name in farewell, however, he was aware of the risks since I did not use an alias—at least not currently that fact would soon change.

"You too," I replied, "be careful."

Hanging up the phone, I strode into my bedroom to find my pajamas and change out of the bathrobe I'd worn for damn near a half-hour. I stripped off the garment, reaching for my nightgown sitting next to me on the bed. Slipping it over my head, I combed my fingers through my hair and climbed under the blankets. On my nightstand sat a candid photograph of L and me during one of the rare occurrences he let himself smile. Our paths hadn't crossed for about five years but I always managed to keep a non-invasive eye on him.

I had to wonder why did he call me the other members of the taskforce were probably more valuable. Did he think me an asset to the case, did he just want to push my buttons, and does he have an interest in breaking my case slump or…"

You're reading way too much into this, I chided myself, maybe he just wants a familiar face around to ease the awkwardness he feels and sometimes causes.

I grinned, shaking my head softly. After a minute, I realized I'd forgotten to shut the TV off. Grumbling angrily under my breath, I walked to the living room and pressed the power button.

Settling my body back under the covers of the bed, I turned off the lamp beside me, wondering if I would ever be able to get to sleep. My mind usually exhausted a few hours max trying to shut down. I wasn't classified as a chronic insomniac by any means but when I had something occupying my thoughts I had to think things through. The venture I'd agreed to would do its damnedest to test my emotional strength.

Then again he's L and he'd always done that. I could appreciate the challenge that was coming. However, in all honestly I did not know if I was ready for the case or its aftereffects.

My eyes drifted closed and I craved nothing more than sleep.