Three Days after the Funeral

"Meiko, I'm terribly sorry for the loss of your lover."

"Hm?" shaking her head to clear her thoughts she replies, "Sure Annika I'll work overtime."

"That's not what I was saying."

"Oh, sorry, boss. I've just not really been that focused lately."

"Meiko, maybe you should take some time off, at least until you're focusing again."

"But, Ma'am I have to work. How am I going to support myself otherwise?"

"Meiko, you're a smart, beautiful, and creative girl. You'll figure something out."

Meiko sighs and sets her work keys and apron on the counter. "Well I guess that's that." She walks out of the door listening to the alarm chime loudly behind her. Walking over to her black 2011 Chevrolet Silverado, climbs inside and puts on her $5 Faded Glory Sunglasses.

Two Weeks Later

Meiko awakes to the sound of her door slamming shut. Getting up, Meiko slips on a pair of blue cut off shorts, a tank top and, her late boyfriends favorite Jacket. Tip-toeing down the hall with an authentic Louisville Slugger in her hands holding it up, defensively. Seeing someone walk towards her, she steps back raising the bat a little higher. Remembering the classes her brother made her take for self-defense, Meiko calmly tip-toes forward. Unfortunately, the person saw her and dove her way. Adrenaline coursing through her veins, she swings the bat professionally at the person. With a loud 'Oof' they land on the floor in a heap.

Five minutes later, Meiko has them tied to her dining room chair, unconscious. When the person finally regains consciousness, Meiko readies herself for attack.

"Who are you and what the hell are you doing in my house?"

"Who the hell are you swinging a Louisville Slugger at my head?"

"My house, my questions answered first."

"Your house? This is my house."

"No it's not. I lived here with my boyfriend. But, then he passed a few days ago. I live here by myself now."

"Who was this boyfriend of yours?"

Wiping a tear that fell down her face she looks him in the eye, "Izaya."

"Damn it, I hoped I was wrong," he muttered studying her face, "Did he ever mention a man named Rin?"

Thinking back, she did remember Izaya telling stories to her about his roommate and his adventures in Japan. "Yes. Are you Rin?"

"Yeah. If you don't believe me, you can check my ID. Now. Can you answer my question now?"

"Meiko. Meiko Sakine."

"Beautiful name."

"Thanks."