Like The Hell He's Going To Be Yours!

by Izayoi-Zenpai

Naegi Makoto, the Ultimate Lucky Student had done it now. Watch him as he faces the consequences of capturing the hearts of six (and counting) girls of his class! Will he be lucky enough to survive the onslaught? Or just unluckily be swamped by jealous females?

2. Chapter 2

Guess what?

This fanfic is being continued! I was genuinely surprised from the reviews and the number of likes/follows. I've read all what you thought and I'm extremely thankful for all the positive comments!

Sorry for the very late update since its summer. I've had this disease called 'tardiness' or universally called as 'laziness' and mostly just slept or played games and even spend the whole day reading other fanfictions throughout the month. I have no excuse. I'm really sorry.

I was also thinking of rewriting some of my fanfics since my current ideas didn't really mesh well with what I've written and just be unmotivated to write anything. That's the whole reason why I haven't yet updated.

But putting aside that for now...

So this fanfic.

Yes, I've chose to continue it. And I also decided that I won't be putting all the characters of the whole franchise in an instant. I'll start slow and just focus on the DR1 characters for now with little mentions of other characters in its sequels.

And if you're asking if characters like Natsumi Kuzuryuu and the Warriors of Hope will be involved...

All I can say is that it's Naegi-kun. How can he show his Ultimate title, protagonist, harem skills, and all around character without those guys? He'll befriend them all, and he'll conquer them gals. Even if he didn't, I'm sure his own luck would say otherwise.

And if you're curious as to what my most favorite Danganronpa pairing is... you'll see in the end of this chapter!

Now without further ado, happy reading!

[HopE/DesPaiR]

Mukuro Ikusaba sat quietly in her seat. Tapping her fingers softly on her desk as her expression revealed nothing but an emotionless look. Holding a small book in her other hand as her eyes half-surveyed the contents of a single page.

The UItimate Soldier then silently gave a discreet frontage view of her classroom. Immediately, she did anything but stifle a small smile as her eyes caught a person with a single distinctive un-brushed strand of hair. Sitting there contentedly, to what she can predict, had that very same smile on his lips. Patiently waiting for homeroom to start.

"Makoto-kun..." Her ears perked up as she turned slightly to look at the person who muttered the name of the teen in her eyes earlier.

Her eyebrow twitched as she noticed how her sister, Junko, didn't even bat an eye to the gazes she was given, and proceeded to look at Naegi with nothing more than a dreamy look. Completely disregarding how few of the people on the room gave her an incredulous stare in return. In their minds, never they once saw the Ultimate Fahionista so distracted in their lives.

She was also brought into attention of how the Fahionista's hands furiously scribbled on her notebook below. Taking a discreet look, a sudden spike of jealousy pierced her mind when she happened to see many drawings of Naegi-kun filled the brim of a single page. Some were chibi-sized and well drawn faces of him. But it did nothing to hold back the growl on her lips when the words 'Naegi Junko' was also written in the upper left corner of her notebook.

Presently. She can't help but feel a miniature sense of anger towards her little sister.

She then suppressed a groan as she caught four more eyes watching the Luckster with unyielding gazes of extreme attention. One was awkward, another was subtle, other was joyous and the last one was just... so blunt.

And every single one seemed to indicate that each of them was... waiting for an opportunity of some kind.

Presently? The sensation of stabbing someone in the neck was doing wonders in her rational thoughts.

With a very unusual yet undeniably cute pout on her lips, she noticed how the Luckster seemed to stiffen and looked around like he had been disturbed.

She didn't blame him. No one can just sit tight and just relax when one was being intently watched after all. So giving Naegi a fond look to somewhat alleviate his tensions, though unknown to her, it did the complete opposite. She was just thankful towards the fact that the girls didn't bother the Luckster again after... earlier.

Speaking of how they just brazenly approached the Luckster with no warning. It had undoubtedly made the teen confused and afraid when they suddenly argued with really loud voices.

Apart from disturbing the other classes, the teen could only stand there with fright as they pulled his arm quite painfully. Her sister's chuckles when she proceeded to bury the Luckster's head in her bosom several times didn't really help all that much.

Granted, she had been one of the people who acted as if her territory had been breached. But she can't help it! How was she supposed to act if she suddenly saw how their Luckster was clearly distressed? Was she just going to stand there and just let her Luckster be troubled!?

And no. It wasn't just because she felt rather... threatened when the other girls' flocked around the Luckster with no kind of admonitions. It was just all for his safety!

Though truth be told, she did somewhat realize just what kind of reason made her and the other girls react that way. And she would be lying to not see what caused it.

In her part, right after what happened last night, she had this strange nagging sense that was disallowing herself to sleep a wink. It was only because of her inherent ability as a Soldier, which lets her mind and body accustomed to continuous activity that saved her from becoming tired for the day.

The source of her insomnia was far from uneasiness and discomfort however.

And she had a feeling that all of the girls involved in that particular night experienced the same thing. She even caught her sister applying an extra layer of make-up beneath her eyes, for obvious reasons, earlier this morning.

Ikusaba shook her head lightly as she tried to keep her eyes on the book she's reading. The Ultimate Soldier still gave lingering looks towards the Luckster in the front. A sudden surge of approaching the teen came apparent in her mind, but she suppressed it. Just like a veteran Soldier that she was, she knew that this wasn't exactly the time to make her move.

...Make her move?

A budding blush slowly appeared on her cheeks. She adamantly tried to erase the insinuation that kept assaulting her mind like a machine gun. She just wanted to know if the Naegi was okay. Or even better yet, make sure that no one, and absolutely no one, would trouble the Luckster once more.

Seeing him so smile so purely every time as he breath, made her determination more lucid and allow her to gain confidence in standing up to her sister. It was an unintentional effect that boosted her own self-worth every time she interacted with Luckster as a friend.

And she'll make damn sure to make that as a reality, even if she had to be the reason for the Luckster to be happy.

A sudden squeak of the door snapped her from her thoughts. Ikusaba tilted her head forward expecting to see the teacher moving in front. She closed her book softly and placed it on her desk. Homeroom starting as the bell resounded throughout the school.

The Ultimate Soldier then went rigid as it took formidable willpower to not let her shock show in her face. Clearly not anticipating who just trudged their classroom and viciously replace her expectations of a normal morning.

Though it was more for the sake of her Luckster that clearly earned a well-deserved breather.

[HopE/DesPaiR]

Naegi Makoto knew that he hadn't done anything yet to trigger his supposed 'lucky streak'.

Though in hindsight, he really should've anticipated that luck isn't synonymous to his name at all. With all how he had been mostly proven devastatingly wrong by his own supposed noteworthy title as an Ultimate.

And as his eyes continued to widen from the unexpected visitor, he was really contemplating to request if there was a possibility to change his title to the Ultimate Unlucky Student. The Headmaster of this school seemed reasonable enough to see that they got his title wrong from the very start.

...Oh who was he kidding? He could just ask right now.

"Good morning Headmaster Kirigiri!" Came loud the call of the Ultimate Moral Compass as he wondered why there was sweat suddenly appearing on his face.

"Good morning as well" Kirigiri Jin said as he swiftly motioned all of them not to stand. His message interpreting that he wasn't here for anything official.

He was not... expecting this. Not at all. Though, he could also tell that his fellow classmates shared his own opinion. Just looking from the barely hidden shocked look of a certain Detective gave him all the information he needed.

"Tou- *cough*" Kirigiri coughed immediately as she almost regarded the man with a proverbial call. "H-Headmaster... what are you doing here?" She visibly cringed from the poor display of subtlety. A sentiment that was shared by all his classmates. It took a glare from the girl to stop a certain Clairvoyance to chuckle out loud.

If the older Kirigiri was affected by the amusing display of his daughter, he only showed a wry smile. The latter shooting him what seemed to be a pout overlapped by how her cheeks slightly reddened.

It was understandable to Naegi... at least to him. The two had been in a very strained relationship as father and daughter. And it had just been recently interfered after a nosy push of a meddlesome boy.

Not like he regretted it...

Nonetheless, it would take a longer time to repair any awkwardness in their relationship that was still lingering. And it would be the natural flow of the world to fasten their relationship that they could proudly call their own.

But overall, he could see that it was far from negativity that was hidden behind those smile and glare of the two.

"I just need someone in your class for a bit" The older Kirigiri gave a moment of pity to his daughter and stated his intention. "It's very important. I might borrow him for the first schedule, or even more" Traces of unease was erased from her daughter. Her expression shifting into her usual serious and indifferent look.

"...You could've just let a staff call for a simple errand Headmaster" Kirigiri said with a stony yet analytical expression. Probing any signs of clues from her father's face. But there was no implied coldness in her stature.

"It's as I said, important. And I thought of approaching the young man myself since I was just around the corner" Kirigiri Jin said with an easy smile. Her daughter rising an eyebrow from the puzzling implication but did nothing to prove anything.

The Luckster let out a subtle shake of his head as he tried to relieve his tensions. Just watching the two Kirigiri so serious made his emotions a bit dimmer. He didn't really think that it was necessary for them to act so... formal to each other. But that was only his opinion and he really wasn't the kind of person to force his own to other people. Not that he had a right to.

At least he could see that their relationship was steadily becoming stable. And he was immensely happy for that.

Or he was just completely oblivious to not see the signs. He would never know.

Letting out a quiet sigh, Naegi entertained the reason why the Headmaster of the school was here in the first place. Not that he was against it or feeling any kind of negativity. There was just this nagging feeling that it had something to do with his own luck. Thankfully, it had seemed that the older Kirigiri was just asking for some assistance and had not come here to address what had happened to him yesterday. Not that it didn't really matter since there were much more important things to be done other than including his own plight.

His mind immediately delved into what had happened to him just this yesterday. Or perhaps, what had been the result after a continuous bout with his so called luck.

He was immensely thankful for the fact that he had removed the bandages on his head. He didn't want to attract attention and worry his classmates over him. Apart from the cringes he would sometimes feel that throb once in a while, he was fairly sure that it was lessening over time.

That also includes his fever. It had seemed that the medicine that he had taken last night had done its job. Apart from slight minor sensations of headaches, he knew that his abrupt sickness was gone over night. But he still had to be careful since he could suffer from a relapse, and that'd be really troublesome.

But he couldn't say the same thing for his leg.

His right leg. The leg that had been unexpectedly stomped by an elephant of all things.

And yes, it had been an elephant. Though, he couldn't really say that out loud since people would either not believe him or even take precarious measures in addressing the situation itself.

Nonetheless, he was really thankful that no one ever saw him getting stomped.

The Luckster cringed when he heard his own voice coming out like he had been born the second time. It was slightly embarrassing and outright painful. Though the latter had been the major feeling in his thoughts when the sheer compressed force immediately drowned out the audible creaking of his leg and feet bones.

It... hadn't really been the most joyous of experience.

He softly tapped his right leg on the floor. He winced when he felt the slightest sensation of pain that enveloped the bandaged appendage. It had been a miracle that he was still able to somewhat walk without meeting the floor face first when he had wobbly arrived in the infirmary. He knew, for several days, he really needed a crutch to at least keep himself stable.

Speaking about the infirmary, the only people that knows that accident was the Ultimate Nurse herself. Since he didn't really want to lie when she questioned him from where he was injured. The poor girl had really been frightened once she heard what caused the damage.

It didn't helped how they became friends when he was, admittedly, a regular in the infirmary. But after a couple of horrified shouts and chastisement, he had been able to calm the girl and somehow plead to not tell anyone of his particular injury and inflicted others, or at least their causes.

It was extremely hard to convince the girl. Not right after how he had made two total trips to her domain earlier that day.

On another unrelated note, the girl had really been quite, what was the term for it?

Clingy?

Right, the girl had sort of... pounced on him when she got word of his experience. And had refused to leave his lap until he had finished his explanation. Though, that had been quite embarrassing. And it had been very difficult to answer when all the blood was busy rushing up his face.

Naegi let out an embarrassing laugh. He was still guilty for that. And it didn't really help how the nurse was blushing up a storm when she realized what she had been doing.

After a few more blushes and light scolding, he made his way out of the infirmary with a crutch on hold. Amusedly pondering if he could somehow make his way to his dorm unscathed. He attempted to treat his situation as a joke to at least lessen the negativity of it.

A minute later, he had instantly regretted the notion.

That had been rightfully addressed when he suddenly slipped and broke the crutch he had been holding. Banging his head on the floor quite roughly that only triggered immense pain on his bandaged scalp.

What luck he had...

After a downtrodden sigh, he shook his head to dispel his thoughts. He could only blame himself for getting hurt all over. And he knew it wasn't really justified if he was accusing his own luck on the blunders that he had committed and could've been avoided if he had been careful. An example would be the reason of how he had managed to reach the significantly distant animal pen of the school. He had been sure that it was quite far where he was intending to go.

And he still knew that it wasn't over yet.

Nonetheless, the reason as to why he pleaded for Tsumiki-senpai not to tell of his injuries wasn't just because he decided to keep all that to himself. Or point fingers to some people that had been the direct cause of his injuries. Or even outright accuse the poor elephant and threaten it to be released somewhere else.

No, what he was really worried about was-

"-aegi-kun? Naegi-kun!" He yelped as he was viciously interrupted in his thoughts. Wincing as his right leg jolted in pain from the contact above the floor. He quickly hid it but, unknowingly, certain observant eyes noticed his slight grimace.

With surprised eyes, he shot his head forward to only repress a stutter as he sat face to face with two concerned purple orbs of a certain Detective. Two hands on both of his shoulders as he assumed that the girl tried to get his attention numerous times.

"K-Kirigiri-san?" He asked with a slight stutter. Blinking as he saw the Detective remove her hands on his shoulders and give him a surveying look.

"I've been calling your attention" Kirigiri stated with a small frown. "Is there something wrong Naegi-kun?" She stated with subtle signs of worry.

The Luckster could see the concern on her tone. But he quickly shook his head as he cast it aside for now.

"I-I'm fine Kirigiri-san" He said with a smile. "No need to worry" He stated with the least sign of uncertainty, as he remembered that he hadn't talked to the Detective for quite some time.

Don't get him wrong. He saw the Detective as a friend. But from how the girl seemed to treat him with a cold shoulder from these past few weeks, he could only think that he did something to get the Detective angry for some reason. Even though he didn't know what that particular reason is.

And that also same goes for a particular Idol.

He shook his head once more to get rid of his thoughts. He could only hope that he could see that reason for himself. He didn't want to maintain that kind of relationship with his once close friend.

Kirigiri noticed the look she was being given by the teen and can't help but avert her gaze slightly to the side. She slightly bit her lip and swore she would clear any misunderstanding that she knew was still clouding the Luckster's mind due to her selfish mistake.

"Anyway..." The Detective coughed as he gestured for the Headmaster who was looking at them with an eyebrow raised. "The Headmaster needs you for something Naegi-kun" Taking this as a sign to continue, the latter trudge forward with a smile.

"Don't worry. I'll only take a bit of your time" The older Kirigiri stated. Naegi stared at the Headmaster in confusion until realization struck him like a wrecking ball.

"W-W-What did you need me for H-Headmaster?" He immediately stood up. Clenching his jaw slightly as his leg made an abrupt jolt. It wasn't really that painful, but it did leave a lingering ache.

But still, he ignored that for now. Preferring to draw his attention to the man in front of him.

"I think it'd be better if we talk in my office" The older Kirigiri offered before raising an eyebrow. "But I can understand if you have something to do. We can-"

"N-No! I mean..." Naegi gulped nervously. "I-I'll be happy to accompany you Headmaster Kirigiri. You even personally came here. I-It's probably something important and I wouldn't want to keep you waiting" He reasoned but gave a despondent sigh in the back of his mind.

He had been hoping that he would be able to at least attend the first morning session. But his hopes were dashed when he was confronted by the Headmaster of all people. Still, it was probably something important and he wouldn't want to miss anything. In a sense, it'd probably be the best to be informed if he didn't want his own luck working against him... again.

"Excellent" The Headmaster acknowledged as he nodded. "I'll be waiting for you in my office. And remember, you don't have to come quickly" With another nod, the older Kirigiri opened the door and let himself out.

Naegi gave a tired sigh that he had been holding back. Plopping down his seat as he rubbed his temples. Literally starting to feel a migraine from the unfairness of the world.

"Naegi-kun?" He opened his eyes and stiffly turned towards the Idol that was looking at him with concern. The girl was already standing up and was clutching her hand in front of her chest. "A-Are you alright?"

Mustering up a tired smile, he didn't even bother to mask his condition and reluctance as he answered her. "I-I'm fine Maizono-san. J-Just a slight headache. You don't have to worry" He quickly answered as he abruptly stood up. Grimacing painfully as he did so.

The Idol caught the Luckster's tone and frowned. She really had to clear things up. But she knew it was solely her fault for making the teen so unsure of how to talk to her after giving him the cold shoulder.

If her thoughts were correct, the Luckster was probably blaming himself more than her for treating him rather coldly.

She clenched her fists tighter. No, she owed it all to him to at least give a proper explanation and so so much more. Just remembering how she inadvertently ignored his desperate call last night made her stomach churn.

"Um... Naegi-kun" Maizono shook her head as she found her voice. "Is it okay if-" She was rudely interrupted when one of her classmates questioned the teen.

"Are you sure you'll be alright Naegi-kun?" Ikusaba couldn't take it any longer and stood up to approach the Luckster. Ignoring the incredulous look she was given by the Idol, she questioned the Luckster with a worried frown. "You don't have to go if you're not feeling well" She reasoned.

"I'll be fine Ikusaba-san" The Luckster stated more comfortably but with same terseness. "The Headmaster said it was important. I wouldn't want to be rude" He steadied his feet and braced himself for the incoming pain. He hid his cringed as he forced himself to reach the door.

He still wasn't use to walking steadily. And he didn't still quite know as to how he managed to arrive in the classroom in the first place. Maybe his own luck was finally giving him a breather for once.

That aside, he really didn't know if he can continue walking freely without a crutch for the following days. Sure, it would make the others worry. But making it better was probably more worth it than making it worse.

But he had to make sure not to let anyone notice that he was in pain, at least for today. He really wasn't in the mood to answer questions and he really wanted to address what the Headmaster wants with him. Even if it means forgoing his hopes of having a normal day after what happened yesterday.

"I can come with you if you like?" Surprised, Naegi turned to look at the Soldier.

Placing a palm against the door frame, he shook his head lightly. "No need Ikusaba-san. I wouldn't want to trouble you" He didn't even managed to turn his head when another spoke.

"He doesn't want you to come with him Mukuro-nee" Enoshima shook her head before giving Naegi a mischievous grin as she pointed to herself. "So how about it Naegi-kun? Want an Onee-chan to come and escort you there?" The sudden statement made Naegi almost slip and crash on the ground.

"O-Onee-chan!?" The Luckster stuttered as a healthy blush appeared in his cheeks. Staring at the Fashionista with abject shock and embarrassment.

"What?" Enoshima wondered as she was given similar looks from around her. But ignored them as her eyes were solely on the Luckster's own. "You don't want to?" She asked innocently.

"I-It won't be necessary" Naegi shook his head adamantly.

"Being escorted there or me being your Onee-chan?"

"Both!" Naegi screeched.

"Bummer" The Fashionista pouted before giving a saucy smirk. "Or will you prefer me calling you Onii-chan then?"

"Junko-chan!" Ikusaba faced her sister with a shocked look. She wasn't a bit surprised from the randomness of her sister. But the implications were too troubling to not be surprised of.

The other girls were giving the Fashionista a look of their own.

They didn't find this particular randomness funny one bit.

"T-That's inappropriate Enoshima-san!" The group was surprised when the Ultimate Moral Compass was beaten to it by the Swimmer.

"How is it inappropriate?" Enoshima tilted her head. "I was just asking Naegi-kun if he wants an escort" Asahina bristled.

"D-Don't twist your words!" The Fashionista just stuck her tongue mockingly.

"I think I should go" Naegi murmured from his position seeing an argument start in the classroom. Shaking his head lightly, he exited the room quietly. Trying to let himself out without alerting anyone.

He failed.

"Naegi-kun wait!" Asahina stood up immediately before pouting when the Luckster didn't listen. She too wanted if she could try to go with the Luckster.

"Damn" The Ultimate Baseball Player amusedly said with a shook of his head. "Naegi sure is hoarding all the females' attention" He said with a bit of jealous undertone. "I sure would want to be in his shoes" He added with a sigh. Stumped how the meekest guy in class was attracting all the girls' interest.

Just as he said those words, five girls simultaneously turned towards the orange head. A sparkle of sadistic fury reflecting in each of their eyes as they looked at the oblivious baseball player.

"Now that you mention it..." Celes said as sheer realization twinkled in her eyes. Facing Kuwata with a deadly glint in her crimson orbs. The latter now noticing the stares he was being given and was far from delightful now that he had the females' abrupt attention. "Care to answer something for me Kuwata-kun?" She added with a sweetest tone that made the male's teeth clatter.

"W-What is it?" Kuwata gulped audibly as five faces darkened as they slowly approached the sweating teen in his seat.

"How does it feel being smacked in the face with a baseball?" Maizono cheerfully asked. Kuwata's eyebrows furrowed before stark realization made his face pale.

"Oh cra-"

As the five girls questioned the guilty party, only the other onlookers noticed the silent departure of a certain lavender-haired girl.

The classroom door shutting quietly as the shouts of the mentioned teen clamored the whole room.

[HopE/DesPaiR]

"You can do this..." Makoto Naegi chanted as he firmly supported himself against a wall. Trudging through the miraculous empty hallways with a quick and steady pace.

He could constantly feel his leg aching in discomfort and pain. What's more, the distinct headache was making him a bit nauseous. He also absentmindedly noticed the temperature around him increasing, or was it just him?

His pace continued and he found himself reaching for the stairs to the second floor. Groaning in displeasure from how the numerous steps seemed to become endless. He braced himself as he continued his unstable march.

"Naegi-kun" The Luckster yelped from the sudden call and almost slipped when he reach about midway through the stairs. Turning his head while firmly planting his arm to a wall, he was surprised to see two lavender orbs staring right back at him.

"K-Kirigiri-san?" Naegi stated as the girl took steps and approach him. "W-What are you doing here?" He lamely asked as the latter kept her eyes straight at the obviously straining teen.

"You're not well. And don't you dare deny it" Kirigiri bluntly pointed out. Making the Luckster flinch. He tried to come up with an excuse. But realized that he couldn't hide anything when it comes to the girl in front of him.

"Am I really that obvious?" The Luckster said with a chuckle. Before clamping his mouth shut when the girl didn't share his amusement.

The Detective looked at him with narrowed eyes. Before it significantly softened as she looked down. Clutching her fists for a few seconds, she then allowed it to grasp Naegi's own free hand. The Luckster looked at her gloved hands grasping his with a mild blush.

He noticed how it felt... warm. Despite the knowledge that he had been granted to know what was covered underneath. He knew this specific gesture came rather unique when it comes to the usual aloof Detective girl. It was a sign of vulnerability, but far from weakness and more of comfort. So he stood patiently. Silently thinking of various reasons as to why the girl seemed distracted. Seemed to allow herself to show an abrupt openness that came out of nowhere.

How the girl seemed to be gathering enough courage to confess difficult words...

A sudden ache erupted within the Luckster's psyche. Jolting him out of his patient stance. Something that made the girl's lips thin as she was about to say the words in her mind.

Nonetheless, it had seemed that was enough for the girl to let go and sap her newfound courage down the drain. Biting her lip with frustration and self-doubt.

"K-Kirigiri-san?" The Luckster questioned while holding his cranium with his now free hand. Feeling a bit guilty as he knew he somehow interrupted the girl by his side.

"I-It's nothing Naegi-kun" Kirigiri shook her head lightly. Sighing subtly as she calmed her nerves. Firmly locking her eyes where their hands met with a hard stare.

It had been the perfect setting. With no one to interrupt them and deal with her insecurities quickly as to not let doubts cloud her mind any longer.

She had desperately wanted to relay that it was her fault. Of how she had been treating him indifferently despite how he was the major push to connect a broken familial relationship. To tell him that she was utterly grateful for what he had done. And had dearly wanted to repay him with the gathered resolve that she had been holding back as he finally sorted out her own feelings.

That unnecessary dwelling cost her.

Even now, she had the gall to forcibly grasp the contact that she had dearly missed. Something that baffled her and at the same time, make her truly appreciate how a simple touch brought her contentment and care. No, she knew it was something more beyond that level.

Kirigiri Kyouko mentally sighed as she berated herself. She had always been a brave and fearless individual. That trait had been hammered to her ever since she truly grasped what the Kirigiri name entails. Now, she could feel it wavering as she stared at those two light brownish eyes that wreck her insecurities in one fell swoop and managed to completely fix a relationship that she deemed hopeless. How it made her legs tremble in weakness and invoke something that included a wild beating inside her chest.

Truly, it was baffling.

And somehow, staring at those eyes once again made her courage grew to a tiniest bit. But she resisted the urge to voice her late longing and instead, aid the Luckster in any way she can for now. She would find a chance in which she would inevitably admit her mistakes and cherish the presence of this person that had truly cared for her. And unlike what she had been doing, she will accomplish it while she was by his side.

She can't also but notice that a certain Idol tried to do the same thing earlier. She wasn't blind to not see the expression the blue headed girl was sporting. And she wasn't ignorant to not note that the girl had been avoiding the Luckster as of late.

Just like what she had been doing...

Nonetheless, she would ponder that for later. For now, she had to do everything that she can.

"Like it or not. I'll be escorting you to the infirmary" She said as her face reverted back to its usual indifference. But with a warm gleam in her eyes that she didn't even repress.

"N-No. You don't have to Kirigiri-san" Naegi frantically shook his head in a negative. "And I was already planning to visit Tsumiki-senpai right after I talk with your Otou-sa- er... the Headmaster" He informed briskly. Not even hiding the fact that he was planning to do so, there was no hiding beneath those perceptive orbs.

The girl pursed her lips and could see that the teen preferred to be stubborn. His words didn't exactly assure her and could also see that the teen was obviously struggling. After seeing how bad the Luckster's condition last night, she knew she can't let this go on.

"Naegi-kun" Kirigiri firmly stated that made the Luckster straighten. "Will you voluntary go to the infirmary with me or do I have to drag you there myself?" She scolded.

"P-Please Kirigiri-san" Naegi pleaded. "I promise that I will head to the infirmary after I talk with the Headmaster" He stated. "I just don't want to trouble him and waste his time after going to our classroom"

"You can barely walk. And I can perfectly see that you're feverish" She bluntly informed. "I can just go and talk to him that you're unable to go. Your health is more important" She added but it seemed that the Luckster was far from convinced and continued to argue.

The Detective's eyes twitched in frustration from the display and knew that his sheer stubbornness would eventually overwhelm her logical responses.

Oh who was she kidding? It was this very same trait that he had used against her back then. The very same trait that had made her heart beat from the result that had ensued.

...It didn't help how she was slowly crumbling from those damn puppy eyes that the Luckster was continuously shooting at her.

[HopE/DesPaiR]

"You're here. Do come in Naegi-kun" Kirigiri Jin greeted as he saw the door of his office opening, revealing the brown haired boy. He then raised an eyebrow as he saw his daughter was just behind the young man that he had called. "Hm? Kyouko? My, can't help but be worried I see. You even got your hands full" He lightly teased.

"Tou-san..." Kirigiri exasperatedly stated while letting go of Naegi's shoulders. A speck of red was evident in her cheeks. She was just relieved that the Luckster was not facing her.

For two reasons, she didn't even bother to tell her father that she was just supporting the teen to walk. First, since the older Kirigiri already knew that it was so and had just took the opportunity to tease her.

And second... she knew the second she reacted; her father would just take it to embarrass her even further. So she kept her tongue. But it didn't last long when the Luckster turned to him with a bright smile.

"Thank you Kirigiri-san" Naegi voiced his honest appreciation. "I didn't even know if I can reach this far if you weren't there by my side" He carelessly stated with admiration. He had always admired the Detective ever since he had gotten to know her better. Just seeing how she had helped him and had even taken his own selfish request already increased that admiration tenfold. But at the same time, he had always felt his admiration for the girl to never be recognized.

Just thinking of how he had done something to the girl to warrant her cold shoulder always made him feel horrible.

Unknown to him, his so called 'one-sided admiration' had long been noticed as it wasn't really subtle. And had even evolved into something far more... special.

"It...It's nothing Naegi-kun" The Detective girl appeared to brighten from the sincere gratitude. Showing a small smile that made the teen blush. Though, what the Luckster said was obviously misleading and had made her a little bit embarrassed. She can't help but feel delighted from the praise.

She didn't even have to wonder if it was superficial or a mere faux. Since she came to know that the Luckster had always been and had shown that he was sincere through his core.

"*Cough*" She quickly gave a glare when the older Kirigiri shot her an amused look. The latter already knowing the not so obvious crush she had been sporting for the Luckster. She had always been subtly reminded of that ever since they had fixed their relationship.

"Anyway..." The Headmaster tore her gaze away from his daughter to the completely oblivious teen. "Why don't you have a seat Naegi-kun? Let's discuss what you came here for" Naegi obliged and sat on the couch across the Headmaster with a small coffee table between them. The older Kirigiri opened his mouth to start before promptly closing it as if in thought. With a subtle nod he made his decision.

"On second thought... Kyouko, stay for a minute" The girl halted in her steps as she was about to leave the office to provide them with privacy. Turning to her father with a questioning look which turned to mild surprise when she heard his next following words.

"Naegi-kun, the reason why I called you here is more or less an official or even a very personal intention regarding things that happened in the school" He smoothly conveyed. "And you're probably wondering what that reason is, don't you?" He added as an afterthought.

"H-Hai..." Naegi uneasily replied. Feeling somewhat unsure what the Headmaster had in plans for this meeting. He was already feeling a pit in his stomach from the sudden seriousness in the air. And also, a nagging thought in his mind that he probably knew what this whole thing was about.

"I'll be frank. As of yesterday... your senior, Tsumiki Mikan, reported that you have been sent to the infirmary several times yesterday. And also, an official apology for the unexpected... accident that happened in the animal section here in this school" He finished as he carefully assessed the teen's face.

Naegi's face had gone white. He had been sure to tell his senior to not reveal that particular accident that he had been intending to hide. A brief sense of disappointment filled his mind when his own trust was seemingly been misplace-

"You don't have to worry Naegi-kun. Ms. Tsumiki didn't intend to tell any kind of sensitive information. The young woman had just simply noted her daily reports as the school nurse" Kirigiri Jin quickly revealed as he saw the teen's expression. He then drew her gaze to her patiently waiting daughter.

"And before we discuss, would you mind if we discuss this meeting with Kyouko here?" The Headmaster gazed back towards the Luckster, who had a resigned expression. "I apologize if my request is quite sudden, but I just wanted for someone to know of your current condition. Apart from this being a major concern for the whole school, I've just considered having someone for you to confide with your current condition is preferable. Or at least lighten your worries if you don't want this revealed anytime soon" He humbly noted.

Despite the Luckster's downtrodden expression, he just shook his head to appease the older Kirigiri. Giving the man a newly minted smile.

"I... I'm truly thankful for the thought Headmaster" Naegi sincerely informed. "It's for my own safety. I can't possibly refute your intentions of helping me. Besides..." He then tore his gaze towards the Detective girl. "I knew it would eventually be somehow discovered sooner or later. So I don't mind if Kirigiri-san listens. And aside from that, she's one of the people that I can fully place my whole trust on. I think I can be relieved for this to not be revealed anytime soon, if it can be helped" He said the last part in an amused tone. But it didn't change the fact that his words were honest to a fault for both Kirigiris' to hear.

The girl could feel warmness in her cheeks as she tried to not let it show. She fidgeted the hem of her skirt to at least keep her embarrassment tame. While she was pleased to know that he had trust in her, his constant compliments towards her was dangerously making her heart thump in furious beats.

She didn't even have it in her to tell him to stop.

"My thanks Naegi-kun" Smiled amiably by the older Kirigiri. "But if I were you, I'd really be careful handing out words like what you've been doing" He jokingly noted. "...It might just work too much" He lightheartedly mused seeing his daughter react from the continuous praises she got from this honest boy.

He knew he shouldn't be acting like this in front of a student. No matter how what kind of business they had with each other. It should've been a Headmaster to a student. A student to a Headmaster. But who could help it? This was the very same boy-no, young man that had fixed his relationship with his only daughter after he had left the Kirigiri family. Something, with all of his intellect, had proven immensely difficult or even impossible as he knew that her daughter hold grudges tightly inside her chest. He had been always quietly saddened by the fact that he could only manage to confront his daughter back then in a formal manner. And it had been eating him away every time they spoke rather professionally with each other.

Since... even after being a hardened adult, an independent man, and an impartial Headmaster of a very well-known school. He was still foremost a father. And seeing his daughter act like he was nothing to her was greatly affecting him beneath his own indifferent gaze.

But it had been done. Somehow, his deeply cherished wish came through.

He all but had forgone his hardened facade when he was suddenly enveloped by the arms of his daughter in a much desired hold. How her own apathetic expression broke down to reveal a daughter that had also deeply missed the caring of a father like those moments long time ago. In that moment, he knew he wouldn't trade it for anything else. And it had meant the world to him.

And just across him was the very same person that had made it all possible. So who was he to treat this person in a detached manner just like what he had been doing for all this years? He wouldn't stand for it. Even if it went against his procedures, he would make damn sure to at least be a thankful father to this young man that had fixed his relationship with his only daughter. But he would still be an impartial spectator in anything related to school of course.

Also, he was greatly contented from the budding affection that his daughter was sporting for the young man. But he kept to himself as he knew that was not his territory to directly control.

"Take a seat then Kyouko" He resisted a chuckle from the death glare that he received from his daughter. Greatly amused from the display. "How about we discuss this with a cup of tea?" He offered.

"N-No! Y-You don't have to Headmaster!" Naegi dissuaded with a frantic shake of his head. "I'm fine. N-Not that I'm saying that I'm repulsed but you don't have to trouble yourself for me!" The Luckster was adamantly against the idea. Thinking that having tea wasn't necessary for him as he thought that he was taking advantage of their hospitality. He was only a student of this school for God's sakes!

If anything, the older Kirigiri seemed to have read his mind and chuckled. "I insist"

Naegi tried to dissuade the Headmaster but the man was adamant to be hospitable. It didn't help how the younger Kirigiri also shared his views and persists the frantic teen to just receive the welcoming gesture. He had just barely been able to discourage one Kirigiri from taking him to the infirmary earlier. But two Kirigiris' working against him? He would sooner just remain obedient.

So it was with a reluctant heart that Naegi watched and waited as the man prepare tea. After that, his mood lightened somewhat as they dwelled into their discussion. Turning to the man as he suddenly asked a question.

"E-Excuse me Headmaster. Can I ask something?" With an encouraging nod, he was given the chance. "Can you tell me you knew my... injury is related to that... accident?" The words didn't really roll of his tongue as he remembered the experience.

"Forgive me for being blunt... but I've just connected the dots after getting told that an elephant in the animal section suddenly broke out of its pen and our nurse's recent registry. The caretaker there also reported someone... screaming but he was too late to see what had been the cause. And your medical registry in the infirmary also happened to almost match the time when the accident had occurred" The Headmaster informed. "At first, I deemed that it was just a coincidence. But judging from your reaction... can it be possible that the accident has any correlation?" He stated, wearing a wry and apologetic expression.

Naegi was stumped. He was extremely glad that Tsumiki-senpai had stayed through to her words and felt horrible at his earlier thoughts. He was also amazed from the fact that this man in front of him already knew and had also, somewhat; solved the entire thing just because of his expression, which was undeniably correct. His admiration for the name Kirigiri was steadily increasing.

But that also brought him frozen as he refused to look at the Detective girl, who he could tell was also shocked from what she had just heard. He didn't intend for anyone to know for several reasons, save for his senior, but he just knew that it would be inevitably all for naught.

"An... elephant...? Screaming...?" For her part, Kirigiri looked rightfully horrified from the notion. And from what she had seen last night, her apprehension increased exponentially as she realized what caused the Luckster's leg injury. Shooting the Luckster a concerned look, her words died in her throat when her father continued after looking at her with a shook of his head.

"We don't have to discuss that further if you don't want to Naegi-kun" Naegi reluctantly nodded.

"I-I'm sorry Headmaster. It isn't really the best... experience that I've lived through" With an understanding nod, the Headmaster agreed.

"Don't worry Naegi-kun, I can tell. Why don't we just discuss your condition now instead?" The Luckster gave a silent nod.

"How are you feeling right now?" The Older Kirigiri started.

"Um... oh, I'm fine Headmaster" Naegi took a sip of the tea before continuing. "Aside from headaches and a slight fever last night, I think my leg is the only thing that's badly damaged. Tsumiki-senpai said that I was extremely lucky that there wasn't any bone fracture. And just be careful of my fever relapsing" He summarized what his senior told him.

On second thought, if he had been truly lucky. He wouldn't end up in a hospital bed after screaming so much in the first place. So he wouldn't count on his luck anytime soon.

"No... mental or psychological effects?" The Headmaster asked with the tiniest bit of reluctance, which the Luckster picked up.

"Nothing of the sort" Naegi with a positive shook of his head. "Tsumiki-senpai admitted that I was indeed very lucky. Since if it got worse, I might end up in an emergency room. Oh, and I shouldn't really be walking for at least a few days, now that I thought about it" He chuckled wryly as he recalled his senpai's words in his head.

His thoughts were interrupted when he found his hand being grasped. Turning to look, he found two purple orbs staring at him with evident concern.

"Naegi-kun. If what she said is true... then why did you attend class in the first place?" Naegi quickly averted his face in trepidation. "You could've just stayed in your room. Or better yet call someone there to at least help you" She scolded as she can't believe what made this teen do a very risky action.

"I-I did call someone" Naegi stuttered for a reply. "But the other line didn't pick up. By that time, I was really tired so I doze off. Though, I did drink the medication Tsumiki-senpai gave me. And aside that, it was really late, so after I called someone I hadn't thought of trying again" He honestly relayed as he took quick numerous glances towards the girl by his side. Trying to observe what kind of reaction she had.

"I see..." Kirigiri stated with a straight face. Already knowing that he was indeed telling the truth. Though, it would've been better if her source of evidence hadn't come from... that. But still she was a little curious as to who he had called as she saw it firsthand.

She then lightly shook her head as she cast it aside for now. Since there was something more important to be discussed than her personal interests.

"But you're still not explaining why you ended up ignoring a nurse's advice" Kirigiri glared as she returned to her point. Making the Luckster slightly jump from the sudden change.

"B-By the time I woke up, my fever was gone along with my headache" Naegi defended. "While I found out that my leg was still in pain, I also found out that I can walk albeit slower than usual" He reasoned before realizing what blunder he had committed. "I-I just thought I can chuck it all up and attend homeroom since I didn't end up attending yesterday" He finished lamely.

Kirigiri opened her mouth to argue from the many holes Naegi's statement had. But she closed her mouth and just narrowed her eyes at him as she knew it wasn't worth it. So no matter how she scolded him, it wouldn't change the fact that he did something reckless.

So with an irritated sigh, she sat silent and allowed her father to continue. Though, the older Kirigiri was amusedly watching their discussion as he got the information he wanted to ask the teen.

"Well... I think I can confirm of a possible relapse along with your leg injury" Naegi nodded gloomily in confirmation. "After this, I'd advice taking a visit in our infirmary for further treatment. And abstain from attending school until your senior deemed that your health is better" The Luckster looked ready to refute from the statement, but stopped as he could feel a glare drilling the side of his face and just turned quiet. Giving another despondent sigh as he knew that it was for the best.

"Now, for the second part" Naegi straightened himself as he got ready to listen.

"...as the Headmaster of Hope's Peak, I provide you with my deepest apologies for the sudden accident that happened as of yesterday and the injuries that had been inflicted" The Headmaster formally stated with a bow.

The Luckster stiffened once more.

"I... I accept your apology. B-But you don't have to bow Headmaster" Naegi stated as he shakily brought his cup to a saucer. "I-It's really nothing. I really don't feel any kind of bad feeling against you or the school. It was just unexpected and I was the one who was there in the first place" He added swiftly.

"No, Naegi-kun. I would feel more complacent if you do feel strongly about this matter" The older Kirigiri firmly scoped. "It would even be right to charge complaints or lawsuits to the school from the state of your injury" He noted impishly.

Naegi's face broke down in sweat as his expression turned white.

"N-No! T-T-That's really going too far Headmaster!" Naegi adamantly refused. "There's no need for l-lawsuits or any sort at all! It was just an accident. You and I had no idea it would end up like this!" He urgently pushed. Turning this into a transgression was very far from what he had wanted.

"Naegi-kun" The Luckster stopped as his hand was firmly held by the Detective. Halting his tirade as he immediately calmed down. "Calm down. If you really don't want this to go that far, then it won't" She intoned.

"R-Right..." Naegi deeply sighed before looking at the two purple irises that eased his mind. "T-Thanks Kirigiri-san" he thanked.

"As much as I'm pleased by your outlook Naegi-kun, I'm afraid this'll have to go through your parents to make the final decision" The Headmaster stated as the Luckster stiffened from that. "In the end, it happened in the school. So it would be the sole fault of the school"

He held up a hand as he saw Naegi tried to speak. "It just how the system works Naegi-kun. Trust me; you have the exact right to criticize me and other people who were involved. I wouldn't even be surprised if this would end up people getting fired. At the very least, I'd be having a suspension as the overseer of the whole school" he informed.

Naegi remained silent as he could feel the firm hold of the girl beside him. But it did little to nothing from the storm that enveloped his mind. He grimaced as he knew he couldn't be ignorant. Even if he had been the one that had the right to protest, he knew his own voice wouldn't have done anything in the grand scheme of things. If there was some way he could do something to-

The Luckster's eyes widened. A realization popping in his mind. His lips turning into a hopeful smile.

"T-Then..." Naegi mustered his courage and confronted them with a determined look. "Then I just have to convince my parents that this whole thing was just an accident right?" He stated simply.

"I'm afraid that'll have to be extremely difficult Naegi-kun" The Headmaster solemnly informed. "As a father myself, it would also be in my best interest for the safety of my own child. It's only natural. Furthermore, most compensation would quell nothing from the grave injury that you'd suffered from" He added with a smile towards her daughter. "Accident or not, this is still a major offence done by the school"

Naegi clutched his hands tightly as he heard every word. The sensation of the Detective's comforting warmth was all but gone. His mind working autopilot as he thought many ways to avert this situation in a preferable outcome.

This was the exact thing that made him worry more than his physical injuries.

He personally knew his parents would most likely be worried for him. But he wasn't certain if it would evolve into something far more troubling. While he could say that he had come to know his parents in every sequence of his life, he wasn't sure if they would take this lightly. He wasn't familiar to the working minds of a loving father or a tender mother. He was used to receiving it, not providing it. So, he was more or less uncertain of how his parents would react to his situation.

Furthermore, he could only dread to see what kind of reaction his little sister would make. As he knew that she cared deeply for him and vice versa.

On the most part, if he could somehow convince his parents to not do something drastic. He could just foresee them banning him to ever stepping in the school's dormitories for a very long time or even his whole life. He had done great effort into just persuading them to let him live in the dorms in the first place. Expressing their rightful worries without a hitch.

He didn't want to leave the dorms as long as he could help it. It wasn't the fact that he was displeased living with his parents but he just wanted to be independent for a change. He had realized how he had been depending on his parents thoroughly and always felt bad how he had sometimes took their graces for granted (for him anyways).

He just wanted to make theme proud for having a dependable son that they could lead on. And after hearing about how Hope's Peak would always create a bright future for every other student. His compulsions increased significantly. He had just wanted to prove himself that he could take step in the challenge and lead a future where his parents and little sister would always smile with no regrets.

But now that was a moot point, he didn't mind leaving the dorms if it meant not leaving Hope's Peak. He wouldn't let his own desires and this unlikely accident stop him from making his parents proud.

"I... I'll convince them. Please give me a chance to do so" Naegi bowed deeply with a determined tone in his voice. Unknowingly surprising the two Kirigiris with the heartfelt declaration. The approving twinkle in the Headmaster's eyes kept on growing as he let out a genial chuckle.

The sheer determination in this teen's words was crazy inducing. It took a very special trait to prove that claim and stay that way in a very long time. Truly, Naegi Makoto was one of those few that can contend with those other Ultimates in sheer resolve. The only thing that sets him apart was because he didn't need ambition to bolster his way of doing things, he didn't have that sort of thing. Or any kind of grudges or rancor that kept fueling his resolution. It all came natural to him. What he had was something far more unique. The way he trudges through his everyday and doing the best he can. He didn't have one mindset to reach his goals. He didn't have a one-way agenda. But what he had was a purpose to achieve little things to make the best of it.

Making his parents proud. Helping people the best he can. Staying genuinely optimistic in each day he had woken up from. And even trying to come up of ways on solving major complicated problems of who they refer to as 'Ultimates'.

But by then, he didn't even realize that those little things had become far more significant in the eyes of others. And he had been oblivious to the fact that his efforts were seen as great deal. To him, it only bolstered his urges to improve and relate to every person he knew.

Those were the things that the Detective realized just then. Looking at the teen beside her with admiration in her eyes. And now, his determination was outright displayed as he wanted to fix what had happened to him unceremoniously. He didn't blame someone at all. He immediately thought that it was a mistake on his part and had wanted to create as littlest complication as possible. Never once condemning one person to an unfavorable position that he the right to place them on.

'Dammit Naegi-kun...' Kirigiri thought as he tried her hardest to avert her eyes. Resisting the urge to just smother the Luckster as she was high on emotions that threatened to make itself known.

She was only thankful for the fact that her father's presence was here. She could only guess that her rare turmoil of emotions was making her mind come up of... weird things as she knew he was indirectly helping her... again. In a way that it wouldn't affect her own father and maintain an amicable relationship that he had with the school.

It was almost similar in that time where she let her emotions show when her and her father's feelings reconnected. He had unnecessarily, and unknowingly, controlled a school event just to fix a broken relationship just for her.

Okay, not just for her. But... that could also be the same thing right?

"Well then..." The Headmaster started with a much lighter tone. "I deeply show my gratitude for you Naegi-kun. If that is what you want, then who am I to say no?" Naegi lifted his head back with a gleeful expression. "But you very well know that the school will still be held accountable for the accident correct?"

The Luckster answered with a nod. "So be it, the school will still provide you with compensations no matter what the outcome. And aside from being Headmaster, I owe you a personal favor for your show of consideration"

"It's really not a big deal Headmaster" The male chuckled from the modest response.

"And this marks the end of our discussion" The Headmaster informed. "I'll say again that I highly recommend for you to schedule for a visit to our school nurse for another check up sooner. I'll put in a word to exempt the two of you for morning classes for this official discussion. And I'll even send a request for you to not take classes until you've recovered"

The Luckster looked reluctant. "It's for the best Naegi-kun. Please just follow it and be sure to listen to Ms. Tsumiki's medications" The teen nodded in defeat and stood up with a wince. He was abruptly held by the arm to steady his balance by the Detective. Giving a shaky smile towards the girl who responded with a nod.

"I'll let myself out then Headmaster. Thank you for having me" Naegi said as a goodbye as he received a nod and smile from the older Kirigiri.

Turning his back, he was oblivious to the slight growing smile on the Headmaster's face as he stared at her daughter.

Noticing the smile. She shot a last weak glare to her father, before the younger Kirigiri proceeded to guide the limping teen out of the office. Softly closing the door behind them as they trudged through the hallways.

[HopE/DesPaiR]

"You... didn't have to go with... me all the way to my dorm... Kirigiri-san" With a very tired grunt, he propped himself to seat on his bed. The silent cross-armed Detective standing in front of the closed door of his dorm didn't react to his words, appearing a bit irritated and frustrated. Instead, she marched towards the drawers and opened to reach for towels, placing it on the edge of his bed. Walking once more, she entered the bathroom to get a small water basin and waited to fill it with water.

Releasing a sigh, Naegi confronted the girl as he could tell that she was fuming. He momentarily winced when a sudden ache filled his mind. Closing his eyes, he didn't plan to stop to talk to the girl.

"Look... we didn't know Tsumiki-senpai was suddenly... called by her seniors for an... unexpected project" He carefully relayed. Heavy sweat marring his face as he could feel the temperature rise. Not even knowing if the Detective was in front of him, but he knew she could still hear him as she hadn't left yet.

It was official; he had been careless and got the pain over his head. Now, he was dizzy and a bit nauseous. He didn't have to check that his forehead was burning right now.

Feeling someone approach him, he then felt his own hoodie being unbuttoned. Greatly, surprised by the sudden motion. His eyes opened and widened before seeing the Detective right in front of him. Kneeling as she worked to remove his clothing.

"K-K-Kirigiri-san!?" He screeched as he backpedaled. His mind fully alert. He now only noticed the towels beside him and a furrowed look on the Detective's face. Before wincing in agony as he felt the ache in his head tripled from his shouting.

"Don't resist Naegi-kun" Kirigiri said with a sigh a she climbed up to bed and slowly approached him by crawling. The action greatly disturbed the Luckster as he edge back with every advance.

"W-What are you doing?"

"I need to take your clothes off and dry your sweat" She frowned from the reaction. But she didn't stop and proceeded to corner the Luckster.

"Y-Y-You don't have to do that!" The Luckster hoarsely yelled with a bright blush on his face. Before feeling a painful thump on the back of his head. Now realizing that he had reached the wall on the upper corner of his bed. His headache doing wonders to his brain from the sudden contact. "S-Seriously, you don't have to do t-that. I-I'll just do what Tsumiki-senpai asked of me yesterday. She gave me instructions" He tried to reason. And it seems that it had done the job as the Detective stopped in her tracks.

Once he focused on her eyes, his breathing stopped cold as he could see the slight look of hurt from her expression. Twisting his stomach as he immediately felt horrible.

"I... I just want to help you Naegi-kun" Kirigiri quietly as she tightly clutched the dry towel on her hand. Averting her eyes as she bit her lips. "As you said, Tsumiki-senpai wasn't there in the infirmary. So I just hoped that I'd be of helped. Seeing you so sick didn't really make me comfortable" Gazing back towards him, she nodded in resignation before turning away. "But... if you don't want to I can understan-"

"No. I mean..." Kirigiri stopped and looked back at him in the corner of her eyes. Waiting for the Luckster to speak.

"O-Okay. Can you h-help me Kirigiri-san?" Naegi sighed once more in defeat. Hanging his head low as he knew he couldn't resist seeing her so hurt.

"Are you sure?" The Luckster winced from the unsure tone of the Detective. Closing his eyes as he nodded.

"I'm sure" Like a sudden wind, he quickly felt hands on top of his uniform. He blushed red but he didn't resist. Chanting continuously on his head to stop the sheer embarrassment that he could feel.

"You really should stop being stubborn Naegi-kun. And most people are unimpressed from seeing someone cave in so soon" Sharply looking up, Naegi could perfectly see the evident smirk on the Detective's lips.

"Y-You tricked me" He stuttered as he realized the Detective was just playing him. Slumping his shoulders in defeat from the unfair move, the girl chuckled.

"It's your own fault, you know" The Detective stated as she nudge the Luckster to remove his hoodie. Obediently, he took it off. Folding it and placing it down beside him. Fully revealing the wrapped gauze on his arms, this attracted a look of interest before dismissing it for now.

"H-How is it my fault?" Naegi meekly stated before feeling cloth brushed against his face softly. Wiping his sweat as the soft fabric absorbed it.

"The fact that you're really unwell Naegi-kun" Kirigiri stated as she proceeded to wipe his face gently. "You didn't have to refuse my help, or anyone for that matter. And without, Tsumiki-senpai to guide you. How can you help yourself if you can't even lift a finger?" She lightly scolded. "Sometimes, it wouldn't hurt to rely on others" She can't help but feel a bit hypocritical. But buried it for now as she tended the Luckster's unwell state.

After finishing, she promptly removed herself from his bed before standing up. Looking at him, she continued. "I'll be back after I get some ice. I need to place something cold on your forehead to at least lessen your fever. And by the time I get back, I suggest that you should change your clothing for fresh new ones... if you don't want me changing it for you" With only an embarrassed splutter as a reply, she neatly folded the drenched towel on her hand and hung it on the edge of the water basin. Excusing herself, she walked to the door as the Detective was in her own thoughts.

After the talk with her father, she had guided the Luckster on his way to the infirmary. The latter had been adamant in dissuading him to return to the classroom. But she wasn't having any of it. Only preferring to ignore the Luckster before stopping right in front of the infirmary's doors.

It was only a second later that they noticed that the door was locked shut with a small note that the nurse was not present in the school at this time. The reason being called by seniors for a project.

But it didn't matter to her. Naegi was sick and the only place of comfort for him was denied. She had felt a sense of irritation. She knew it was irrational, but she can't help it. Can she just chuck it all up as a coincidence at the same time when her dearest Luckster was gravely suffering?

She couldn't stand it.

It didn't help how the Luckster kept refusing for her help. But she was more or less used to it. Having seen it numerous times and knowing that it only needed a push to make the Luckster accept. Even if she had to use underhanded efforts just like earlier.

She then briefly thought of the chance to explain her mistake to the Luckster. But discarded it instantly as she knew it wasn't the time for it.

So it was with those thoughts that she opened the door to let herself out. Already planning to go to the cafeteria to ask for some ice packs. She would've continued to ponder more if she hadn't suddenly stopped and cast a confused gaze in front of her.

Purple eyes met dark blue ones.

"Maezono-san..." The Detective trailed off a bit surprised before noticing a plastic filled with ice packs on the girl's hands. Realization donned in her mind as she barely resisted the urge to frown.

"Kirigiri-san..." The Idol showed her surprise before narrowing her eyes in suspicion. But held her tongue as she observed the person right in front of her.

The two girls continued to quietly look at each other with narrowed eyes. In their minds, they clearly knew what the others' purpose of being here for.

[HopE/DesPaiR]

And cliffhanger alert!

Sorry for ending it right here. I just wanted to rise your spirits up. Telling you that this'll be another one of my stories that I'll update as of now.

And yes, just as the majority of the content entails. My favorite shipping is Naegiri! And with a little spice of Naezono!

Sure, it's redundant but I just can't help it. In my opinion, these two characters were really the ones that are truly close to our ahoge boy. In Maizono's case, while the first killing ended up like... that. I'm sure she first felt genuine feelings for the Luckster as a close friend. And in Kirigiri's case... you most likely know by now.

Well, that's it I guess. Wait for another update of 'Like The Hell He's Going To Be Yours!'