A/N: Hello! It's been a while hasn't it? It's been quite busy on my end. Apologies for the wait.

Chapter 4. Circles

(June 25) Evening

Sae sat poised over an open manilla folder, her crimson eyes roving over its contents. She sat sternly at Leblanc's counter, legs crossed and stiff. Set aside was a cold discarded coffee cup, half full. Outwardly she seemed to be engrossed in her work but the quick and fluttered glances she sent to her wristwatch or the door betrayed such notions.

Admittedly, she was unfocused. It had been over an hour and her usual company had yet to show. This hadn't been the first time Sae had come to Leblanc only to find the gruff old owner behind the counter. But, however, this was the first time that it seemed to matter.

Sae huffed quietly to herself and resigned.

For the past five nights Sae had come here late after work, and for the past five nights Ren Amamiya had made them curry, with each night consisting of a different variation of Leblanc's signature dish. They had the cafe to themselves during these hours, and so he relaxed a little and ate with her. She would talk with Ren, both exchanging topics of interest, or she would simply sit quietly just to enjoy the peace; either was soothing. The second night they had watched part of a movie and last night they even played a game of chess.

The memory lightened her tenseness and she felt a tug on her lips. He had made some good moves but what the young barista didn't know was that in high school, she had been the chess club's best player. While she didn't have the time for conventional club responsibilities, it had been one of the few allowances she had been able to secure in her youth.

Time would pass merrily and it would be well into the night when she left. With a smile and chime she would wave farewell through the windowed door.

Then, finally, she'd go home; to the quiet and wounded atmosphere that stifled her senses. Things between her and Makoto were still terse. They hadn't spoken with one another since that night. From the time that she returned home to the time she left for work, Makoto's door remained closed, and for the first time, Sae couldn't muster up the courage to open it.

It left a hollow feeling in the depths of her heart.

She closed the manilla folder and exhaled sharply. Sae supposed that's why she had been visiting Leblanc so frequently. It was nice here; something to look forward to at the end of the day. A place to be, a place to rest.

She could almost imagine the sturdy soft timbre of his voice as he would look up from whatever he had been doing and greet her as she walked through the door. The thought was pleasant, a small warmth to the comfort of her near constant exhaustion.

It was puzzling: Ren Amamiya's role in her life; if she could even call it that. Sae was introspective enough to recognize the recent changes both outwardly and inwardly. Things had been different in the last five days, starting from the night she had come seeking shelter from her guilt. It left her conflicted.

Abruptly, she felt her work phone buzz to life, pulling her away from curious thoughts of a bespeckled barista. With a sigh she retrieved the device from her pocket and checked the screen. The array of pixels revealed the caller ID of her younger colleague and frequent headache, Goro Akechi. His investigations and subsequent case files had been adding onto her already considerable amount of paperwork.

Her eyes narrowed.

What could he be wanting at this time of night? She answered, placing the cell to her ear and spoke quietly with a brusque tone.

"This is Niijima; what do you want? It's late."

Her junior laughed nervously in the way that a sheepish child would when indulged too much and stepped out of line. It was seemingly disarming and often charmed the masses into his ace detective persona.

"Good evening Sae-san, sorry to bother you, especially at this hour, but I was hoping you would be able to assist me with a professional matter. I've been working on this case and I was hoping to get your opinion on something. Could you spare some time tonight and meet me in Shinjuku?"

Even the way he spoke, it was certainly measured, calculated even. While she speculated there was some semblance of the young man in his mannerisms, Sae knew better than to take his outwardly friendly demeanor as no more than the shiny side of a silver dollar.

Her agitation persisted through her thought process.

"Why are you in Shinjuku? The last time I checked you were still a high school student," she remarked flatly.

He laughed again in the same sheepish tone. It was unnerving.

"As I said, I was working a case. I was doing some investigating in Shinjuku when I hit something of a roadblock. So what do you say, Sae-san? I'll buy you a drink," he offered merrily before amending, "non-alcoholic of course."

Sae closed her eyes and sighed, the comfort of nothing washing over her before she opened them. Life came rushing back and she felt even more tired than before. She sat for a moment and looked across the countertops of Leblanc. The only other occupant of the establishment was the newspaper-shielded owner. It felt much emptier than normal in the cafe. Prospects of mystery curry and relaxation finally slipped away into the bowels of disappointment. This only served to agitate her further.

It was unlikely that Ren was working tonight so she might as well deal with this now. She also knew that if she didn't, Akechi would simply ask the next morning; and the next, and the next after that if she let it be. The young ace detective had a way of getting under one's skin.

"Fine," she acquiesced, "but make it quick."

Maybe after her meeting with Akechi, she'd get a drink with something a fair bit stronger than caffeine.

"I'll try my best, thanks for the help Sae-san. Your expertise is always valuable. I'll text you the address."

The call ended, and she placed her phone back into her pocket and made ready to leave. Replacing the manilla folder carefully in her work bag, she pulled the suit jacket across her frame and stood from her seat. Sae left her bill with a decent tip, the cost being familiar, and departed into the back alley. As she walked to her car, her phone buzzed with a text and she briefly pulled it out and took a glance.

Crossroads… What an interesting name.

Ren was feeling guilty.

Serving-side of the counter, he polished a martini glass mindlessly as he stood in the bar's heady, wispy, atmosphere. For the last five days, Sae had been coming to the cafe, weary, but in good spirits. He would greet her and their night would begin as he fired up the burner. Often she would stay, hesitant at first, until it was nearly midnight.

Ren knew why she was spending so much time after hours at Leblanc. Ever since Makoto had joined their group, he'd been able to get some insight into their relationship and especially, the rift that had formed between the two Niijima siblings.

As soon as Sae had stepped into Leblanc last Sunday, he could tell something was off. And with how reckless Makoto had been the next day it was clear that something had gone down at their dinner.

He wasn't quite sure what to do about it. How would he even bring something like that up? As far as Sae knew, his relation to her sister was an association at best. And even then, he could tell Sae was the type to keep personal affairs close to herself.

While they had been warming up to each other, he wouldn't push her. If she wanted to open up about it he would leave that up to her. But, he would do what he could without overstepping his bounds. If that meant giving Sae a place to take her mind off of work and home, then he was happy to do it.

Which brought him to the source of his guilt. Today, while clearing Kaneshiro's palace, Ryuji took a nasty hit. The memory of it left a bitter taste in his mouth. They managed to patch him up but his armor was completely trashed. All of their previous thieving funds had been spent on upgrades to their weapons and some of Takemi's special medicine. If they were going to head back into the bank of gluttony, he'd have to make enough money to get the blonde some new gear. While working at Leblanc was his preference it didn't exactly make much in the way of money.

So here he was, on a Sunday night, in the bowels of Shinjuku's redlight district, acquiring emergency funds. Never would he have imagined his life in Tokyo to be so busy.

He still felt bad, he hadn't been able to let Sae know that he wasn't going to be at Leblanc tonight. He hoped she wasn't waiting on him.

A simple smile worked its way onto his lips.

Ren wasn't too worried though. Sae struck him as the kind of woman that wouldn't wait on anyone, much less liked to. It was something he admired about her. Still, he had been looking forward to her visit. His sound defeat in chess last time left him inspired for a rematch.

"Hey handsome!"

His eyes focused back into the magenta haze of the bar and Ren looked up from his musings. From across the room, situated in a far booth, a young woman in a revealing white evening dress, made eye contact with him. He paused for a moment, uncertainty passing through him, he had only started working here today and the first-day-nerves had yet to die down.

Ren pointed to himself questioningly.

The woman in the booth giggled and rolled her eyes, beckoning him to come forth with a friendly wave.

"Yes you, do you see any other handsome young men around?"

Ren glanced at the two other male customers at the bar and sympathized with their disheartened expressions. He quickly walked around the counter and approached the booth. The woman didn't look much older than him, with smooth skin, wavy raven hair, and hazel eyes. Her make up was light, but the white of her dress made her glossed pink lips stand out more.

"How can I help you, miss?"

She smiled wryly, an inebriated pink adorning her cheeks.

"Well aren't you just a gentleman, and a looker too," she purred playfully.

Mustering all the charm he had, he tried his best to keep up.

"You're not so bad yourself," he commented lightly.

She giggled, either from his clear inexperience with such blatant attention or she was too intoxicated to notice and found the whole ordeal entertaining. Either way, he considered it a win.

"I'd like another peach fizz, go heavy on the schnapps. I like mine with a little kick in it."

Ren nodded.

"Coming right up."

Notifying Lala, within minutes the drink was made and he strode back to the booth.

"Here you are, miss."

Ren made to set the cocktail down, and as he leaned over, the young woman matched his height and left a soft kiss on his cheek, her breath tickling his ear as it ran past. His own onyx eyes widened and it took all of his gathered proficiency in order to hold the drink steady and set it down without a problem.

Ren took a step back, and he regarded the young woman. She smiled demurely, as if nothing had happened, her eyes bright with amusement.

"Thanks, handsome," she said knowingly before turning away.

Ren walked back behind the bar, picking up the same martini glass he'd been polishing from earlier and began anew. What a strange interaction, was it always going to be like this if he worked here? On the plus side, he felt as though he'd gained a sense of charm from the whole ordeal. Lala came to stand by him, and nudged his elbow.

"Popular with the ladies I see," the owner teased, "keep up the good work."

Ren rolled his eyes but smiled. The peace and quiet of Leblanc may be more his speed, but at least it didn't seem to get boring around here.

"Hey kid, there's a shipment of sake coming in. Could you wait by the back door and make sure it gets inside safely?"

Ren nodded, set the martini glass down, and slipped through the backroom door. Making his way past the shelves of bottles, he propped the backdoor open, and waited for the shipment to arrive. He leaned against the metal doorframe and gently ran a finger across his cheek.

While it had been a girl in white, his thoughts drifted to a woman in a black suit with dark crimson eyes. He began to wonder.

Late Evening

"Ah, Sae-san, thanks again for meeting with me."

Her crimson eyes ran across the vibrant neon shops and clubs. What an extravagant headache. Standing beside Akechi, she looked up to the bright pink sign that hung above the entrance. She glanced back sharply to the ace detective.

"Let's get this over with."

Akechi took the lead, stepping to the door and holding it open.

"After you..."

Sae passed him brusquely, and took in the bar's interior. The room was lit by soft sakura pink lights with a main counter and booths lining the opposite side. It was oddly reminiscent of Leblanc. The bar was decently populated. From behind the counter, a rather large androgenous individual in a yukata greeted them.

"Welcome, sit where you like."

Sae nodded habitually while Akechi passed through the door, shutting it softly behind him. He walked in front of her, and gestured to two empty seats at the bar.

"Shall we?"

They took their seats and Akechi began pulling out files from his briefcase.

"I'm surprised they let you in here."

Her junior chuckled.

"I was surprised too, but they let minors dine here, they just can't order anything alcoholic."

When three folders sat on the counter, stacked on top of each other, he closed the case and turned to her. Under her breath, she sighed and prepared for a lengthy legal briefing.

"Alright, so this case…"

Ren stretched with a soft groan as he arched his back. When Lala had said a shipment was coming in, he thought there would be only a few boxes. It caught him off guard when he had to lug in three dozen crates of sake. Getting them off of the delivery truck had been a nightmare with the fragility and weight of the glass bottles. It had taken him longer than he had expected but the deed was done and he waved goodbye to the delivery driver and closed the backdoor shut.

With a long exhale, he dusted his hands of the heavy lifting and made his way back to the service side of the bar. He pulled the backroom door open and stepped back into the soft rhythm blues and rosy lighting.

Lala took notice of him.

"Delivery secured?"

"All thirty-six cases," he affirmed.

"Glad to hear it, you're turning out to be a bigger help than I thought."

Ren smiled at that. There was something incredibly satisfying with a job well done. He surveyed the bar, keeping an eye out for patrons in need of service. As his gaze roved the room, they eventually took notice of a very familiar set of dark red eyes framed in long pale green hair.

Sae?

It had been thirty-nine minutes and Akechi placed the last folder back into his briefcase.

"That should be all. Once again, Sae-san, your insight is always informative and appreciated. I was hoping to present my findings to the police tomorrow so our discussion was a lifesaver," he flattered.

Sae nodded politely.

"Let's not make a habit of this," she asserted.

He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

"Of course, I'm kind of surprised you agreed to meet this late."

Her thoughts briefly drifted back to the seemingly empty cafe and her own frosty living situation. Sae mindlessly looked around the bar.

"Some plans of mine fell…"

And then she saw him. Curious onyx orbs peering behind his signature glasses, Ren Amamiya stood behind yet another counter as their eyes met.

He smiled, and before she knew it, her lips began to curve as well.

"...through," she finished quietly.

"Sae-san?" Akechi asked.

Confused at her stagnated sentence, he followed her gaze. She didn't like to mix her personal life with her professional one so she intended to brush off any of Akechi's questions and hope that he would leave on his own.

Wait… personal? Since when had Ren become someone in her personal life?

"Oh hey, it's you, Ren, you work here?"

This brought her out of her thoughts and caught her attention. Akechi and Ren knew each other? Ren's focus shifted to Akechi.

"Yeah, I just started."

"They let you work here as a minor?"

"I can only sell non-alcoholic drinks and bring customers their orders."

"I suppose that still follows regulations. Oh, that reminds me, there's this club I've been meaning to take you to, are you free next Wednesday?"

Ren's gaze flicked to her for a split second and then returned back to Akechi.

"I'll have to check my schedule."

"To be decided then, but…"

The ace detective glanced from Ren back to her then back to Ren again.

"...where are my manners? Ren, this is Sae Niijima, my colleague and elder sister to Shujin's student council president. Sae-san, this is a friend of mine, Ren Amamiya."

A smirk spread across Ren's lips. He stepped forward so that they were across from one another, only the countertop separating them. His eyes were alight with mischief.

"It's nice to meet you, Miss Niijima."

He held out his hand.

It was strange to hear him speak so formally to her, and yet she played along. Taking his hand in a firm clasp, she shook.

"It's nice to meet you as well, Amamiya."

They shared a knowing smile, but kept a low profile.

"With introductions and formalities out of the way, I must be going, I still haven't taken care of my schoolwork yet. My detective work has been keeping me quite busy."

Akechi stood from his seat and held his suitcase.
"Will you be leaving as well Sae-san or is a stiff drink in order for the long day that it's been?" he asked cordially.

Sae regarded him dryly.

"It HAS been a long day, no thanks to you. I believe what I do off the clock is my business. Run along ace detective."

Akechi laughed it off, and began walking to the door.

"Careful Ren, she can be quite fierce when she wants to be."

Her eyes narrowed and she sent him a look that showed him how not amused she was by his supposedly 'charming' antics.

"Alright, alright, I'll get out of your hair. Farewell you two," he said with a wave as the door soon shut behind him.

When the door clicked shut, the smile he had been wearing fell into a warped glare. His grip tightened around his briefcase and the handle let out a soft creak from the pressure.

"Stupid woman…" he snarled.

Akechi forced himself to calm down, breathing steady as he let the mask settle into place. When he was ready, he let a disarming smile come to his features and prepared to depart. But before he left back into the world, he grumbled hatefully.

"I hate playing nice."

As soon as Akechi had left, she turned back to regard the cafe dweller across from her, this time behind a different counter than their normal. It was strange to see him in such a mature setting, and yet it didn't surprise her, Ren seemed to carry more years with him than his actual age. What was surprising was that she had seen him tonight at all. What were the chances that Akechi would invite her to the same bar that Ren happened to be working at?

It was absurd. And yet here they were.

Sae leaned into the counter, crossing her legs and resting her elbows on the wood as she looked him over. The pink lighting complimented his slender frame as did the white dress shirt, rolled up at the sleeves, and dark slacks. He looked the part of a professional bartender.

"Funny seeing you here," she prompted lightly, "You really are quite the hard worker."

"Just another one of my surprises."

She liked that about him. The way he took everything in stride with a sense of calm. It was contagious, as was his sense of playful mischief. It had been a long day and she hadn't unwound like this in a long time. And while she hated drinking alone, that wasn't quite that case, now was it?

Addressing the barista turned bartender, she flashed him a playful smile.

"So what's a girl gotta do to get a drink around here?"

He responded in kind, leaning into his side of the counter.

"Be a successful and overworked public prosecutor."

Sae was easing into the atmosphere as a laugh slipped between her lips.

"Those are some pretty high standards. Lucky for me, it seems my hard work has paid off."

Part of her knew that it was all nonsense, the jokes and banter, but there was an even larger part of herself that didn't care. It was a simple indulgence, something she afforded herself, at least for the night.

"What will you be having?"

Thinking of her options, she settled on something out of character for her hardened and grizzled all-business persona.

"I'll have an umeshu tonic."

Much like their routine at the cafe, he nodded with a friendly disposition as the customary words of service floated across the counter.

"Coming right up."

He moved back from the counter, a slight sway in his step as if he were light on his feet, and gave the owner her order.

"One order for an umeshu tonic."

Lala raised an eyebrow.

"Oh honey, the drink can wait. What's up with you and the pale haired enchantress? She has got some eyes for you."

She did? He knew things had been different, but that was no reason to think that meant anything. Ren fought the urge to look back at Sae. Lala was probably just teasing him, much like Sojiro had. They were just friends.

"She's just a friend," he dismissed.

Lala's eyes fell to the counter, bemused, and they began preparing the drink.

"Oh honey…"

Ren returned quickly with a modestly engraved mid-glass of brass colored liquid. The ice rattled softly against its container as he set the drink down.

"Here you are, one umeshu tonic."

"Thank you, Ren."

It had begun to feel warm in the bar, and so she discarded her suit jacket onto the back of her chair. The removal of the extra layer felt good as the air settled onto her slim black turtleneck and cooled her heated skin.

Sae raised the glass to her lips and let a slow trickle down her throat, the sweet and bitterness of the plum liqueur stimulating her senses. It had been a while since she'd had umeshu and was pleased to still favor the taste.

After the sip, she set the glass back onto the counter and leaned into its space once more. Sae was used to meticulously thinking through every decision and action that made up her daily life. It was exhausting, and right now, she let herself relax once more, as she had in Leblanc, and spoke freely.

"Tell me Ren, how do you know the ace detective? I wasn't aware he ran in any of Shujin's social circles."

Ren took his own stance, bending down to lean with his elbows on the counter as well. He situated himself so they were eye level.

"He doesn't, I don't think. I met him on a school trip to a television station where he was being interviewed. We crossed paths and got to talking and so now we're sort of friends. He comes into Leblanc sometimes, not often though, and he visits much earlier in the evening than you do."

She took another sip.

"What do you think of him?"

Sae was certain there was something strange about the ace detective. She wondered if Ren thought so as well. He thought for a moment, a hand coming to run through his messy raven locks.

"I think he certainly plays the part of the ace detective, but there's more to it than that. He seems so much different than me. There's something that doesn't quite feel real about him."

She spoke without much thought.

"Because he's older?"

Sae knew her question wasn't just about Akechi. As it slipped from her lips she felt a pang of embarrassment. It had been a while since she'd encountered that emotion. She hid any pink to her cheeks behind another sip of her drink.

"Not at all. I think it's because he's acting too much. I catch glimpses of something more substantial but sometimes it feels as if I'm speaking to a character more than another living being."

His response was enlightening and calming. She was glad he was of a similar mind, though she already knew Ren was both perceptive and observant.

"I see, I would agree with you on that."

Sae raised the glass to her lips, sipping until the remnants of ice brushed against her lip, signaling its emptiness. She set it down softly. Huh, she hadn't realized how fast she'd been drinking. With her near empty stomach, she detected a faint buzz charming the back of her head. And with her recent visits to Leblanc, her alcohol tolerance had seemingly vanished.

Caution warned her against another glass. She still had to drive home.

Her brow furrowed slightly.

That's right… home… Even if she went home now, it would be to a silent apartment and a closed door. She still didn't know what to say to Makoto. It felt like nothing she said would make up for it. All week she had been festering in her guilt by running away to Leblanc until she knew what to do.

It was sad. A sad life without much company or comfort. Her only pride came from her work, and even that managed to drag her down further. Starting from night clerks and cashier work to her prestige as a public prosecutor, no matter how high she climbed, it felt like it was never enough.

Not for her, not for Makoto, and certainly not for their father. And now, she'd scorned the only person who cared about her.

"Sae?"

That was her name. She focused back to the present and the blues and pink atmosphere came rushing back. Ren Amamiya stood across from her, his onyx gaze looking her over carefully.

"Is everything alright?"

The way his eyes darted from her own, to her lips, to her hands, it made her feel better. He was checking on her. It was silly to think, but maybe he cared for her as well. It was an odd idea, she hadn't really let anyone besides Makoto do that. Last week she had wondered if she was getting too comfortable with him, but now the thought of their closeness didn't seem so strange.

She couldn't tell if that was a good or bad thing. Either way, the way he was looking at her made her feel good. Sae let herself indulge, at least for tonight.

She smiled earnestly.

"I'm okay, just some unpleasant thoughts came to mind," she pushed the empty glass towards him, "I'll have another."

He nodded, his eyes lingering on her a bit longer before taking the glass and preparing her order. Sae sat for a moment, listening to the blues over the speakers.

"Another umeshu tonic."

Lala nodded, and quickly fixed the drink.

"After you serve your friend, go ahead and clock out. You're free to stay and chat with her, I'll even make you a drink to match, non alcoholic though," they said, handing him the drink.

"Thank you, Lala-san, I'll take you up on that offer."

Just as he was about to walk away, Lala caught his attention.

"Oh and kid," Lala winked and gave him a thumbs up, "good luck with her, she's quite pretty, don't mess this up."

Lala tossed something to him and he caught it deftly. Opening his palm, his typically stoic demeanor fizzled at the sight of a bundle of condoms held together by a rubber band. Looking up with a faint blush, Lala only offered a snicker and another thumbs up.

He pocketed the offending items and made his way back to Sae, all the while calming himself. They were just friends and beside that, Sae seemed to have something on her mind and he had a feeling she was wanting to talk about it.

This was no time for encouragement and condoms.

The entire week had been a bit of a blur. She'd bounced from work to Leblanc and only went home when she needed to shower and sleep. If she was honest, she had been using Leblanc as a means to avoid her problems at home. But even that wasn't the whole truth.

Ren Amamiya, with his messy hair, glasses, and coffee, was what let her unwind. It was why the cafe felt so empty without him there. She knew he had some idea that something was wrong, and she was grateful, intentional or not, that he hadn't asked about it and simply provided her with friendship.

But that was starting to eat at her. He didn't know what she'd said to Makoto. If he knew, would he realize the kind of person she was? Would he regret his kindness? She knew that was irrational to some extent and her relationship with Makoto had little to no consequence on his life or maybe not even his opinion of her. Perhaps the alcohol had gotten to her, but still, she wanted to tell him.

Ren returned and set her drink down. She thanked him and took a long sip, hoping to soothe any anxieties she harbored. Sae finished drinking and let out a soft sigh. Expecting him to be on the other side of the counter, she was surprised to see him sitting beside her. Likely catching on to the coming question, he explained.

"My shift is over, but we can still stay and chat."

His shift? She glanced at her wristwatch; it was getting late, later than she had expected. Perhaps she should call it a night here? However, the thought died quickly as he looked on at her, the same patient interest she had come to like about him.

Sae couldn't back down now.

"I see, well that's good. There's actually something I was wanting to talk to you about."

She took a breath, in, out, and readied. It had been a long time since she had confided in anyone; and she still didn't intend to. But for him, maybe she could make an exception.

"Do you remember the dinner I had with my sister last Sunday?"

"Of course," he answered calmly.

Now came the hard part. Sae took another sip.

"It…" she sighed, "...it didn't go well."

Sae paused, collecting her thoughts. They swirled together in the mix of blues and the dull chatter of the patrons. Ren waited patiently for her to begin again.

"Our mother passed away when we were really young and our father was killed in the line of duty five years ago. I had only started my second year of high school when I became the sole provider for my sister and I."

Sae paused again. It felt almost like a confession, an admittance that she acknowledged her hardships. That was something she struggled with.

"I worked full time throughout highschool and after that I put myself through law school, all the while taking care of my sister. Much like our father, I was never home for long, and over the years it's put a strain on our relationship. It was tough getting here; and it's still tough."

She was angled to face him and their knees brushed against one another. She didn't bother to move them.

"I said some awful things to her. I told her she was useless, and that she ate away at my life."

Sae's hands trembled and she quickly took another sip, downing what was left in the glass before roughly setting it back onto the counter.

"I was so angry. In that moment I felt like everything I had gone through was taken for granted. I took it out on her, and she didn't deserve it."

Her breath was choppy, and she leaned into the counter for support. Everything felt like it was spinning, and she knew she hadn't drunk enough for it to be the alcohol. She hadn't opened up to anyone like this in five years.

It was all coming back to her.

The struggle, the anger, the resentment.

And then she felt it.

It was warm, gentle, and it pulled her away from the down hill spiral of her thoughts. His smile was calm, and she looked down to see that he had placed his hand on top of hers. It was surprisingly big, enough to encapsulate her own.

He took a step further and placed his hand underneath hers so that he held it. Slowly his thumb began to make featherlight circles across the back of her hand.

Sae's breath slowed and for a moment all she could focus on was the sensation of her hand in his. Physical intimacy was a realm that Sae had little to no experience in. She had always been far too busy to bother with a relationship or anything like that.

There was a strange feeling within her. It was almost like a tugging of sorts. It was on the borderline of uncomfortable, but also left her feeling light.

Slowly her head cleared with the anchor of this new feeling, and she focused back onto what she wanted to say. Sae thought about removing her hand from his but she couldn't bring herself to do it. There wasn't any real harm in it, and it was… soothing.

"We haven't spoken since that night and I've been coming to Leblanc to avoid going home. I just… I don't know what to say to her yet."

They sat for a while, their hands still connected.

Sae mulled over her thoughts. She had shared a lot with him, more than she had planned to. It frightened her how easily the most guarded parts of herself had spilled out in front of him. Even so, she felt better, calmer. As if by finally speaking of it, she could carry on.

"You know..." he started.

Sae looked at him. His eyes roved the bar as he spoke.

"...it's okay if you don't know, and it's okay if you need time."

Their eyes met.

"You're always welcome at Leblanc," he stated.

Sae was at a loss. She didn't know what to say at first, all that came was a grateful smile and another strange feeling inside her chest. Her hand tightened around his.

"Thank you, Ren, I really appreciate that."

Once more they sat there, this time with a sense of calm. She ordered another drink and sipped at it quietly. After some time, her glass empty once more, she spoke.

"Do you think I'm a bad person for what I said?"

Ren thought for a moment, giving her words some thought.

"I don't think you're a bad person for that. I think you're a person who has been through a lot," he smiled reassuringly, "I'm sure your sister will forgive you."

It was nice when he said it. Ren leaned back, taking his hand with him. She could almost feel the phantom sensation of his careful ministries. It was startling how cold her own hand felt without the company of his.

While brief, the sensation of his touch was something that puzzled her. She wasn't sure what to think of it, or if she should think of it at all.

Ren began to speak and her thoughts were put to the side.

"You know, in truth, I do know your sister."

He did? This caught her attention.

"You do?"

He chuckled with his irises in the corner of his eyes, as if recalling an amusing memory.

"Makoto and I have spoken in passing, with her being the student council president at Shujin, but I mostly know her from when she was following me around after school."

Oh that's right, Sae had completely forgotten about that with all that had been going on. It was honestly a little embarrassing, her sister could really go over the top sometimes.

"Right, I apologize on her behalf. That was completely inappropriate of her and I spoke with her about it."

Then again, Sae could as well. Ren waved it off.

"No need to apologize. I suspected that she was only doing it because of the allegations that I had something to do with Kamoshida's change of heart. She wanted to get to the bottom of what was happening at her school. You and her are both like that, driven and determined. I think she gets that from you."

Sae's embarrassment settled down and she smiled. Just like always, he understood. Makoto had always been a devoted student, taking on extra assignments and striving to be a part of the scholastic political circle. She had always tried to impart the importance of hard work to Makoto.

"When I saw you two outside the '777' I kind of pieced it together that you were siblings. Since then she and I have interacted in more conventional ways. I don't know her too well, but she definitely seems to look up to her older sister."

Now she wasn't sure if he was just trying to comfort her or he really meant it. Either way, it drew a smile out of her and she appreciated his words.

"Thanks, for saying that."

He wore a calm confidence on his features and it set her at ease.

"Of course, I just thought you needed a reminder."

A reminder? Maybe he was right, she should have known it all along. Sae thought of the past five days and suddenly felt silly about all of it. What had she been so scared of? It seemed so simple now.

Ren Amamiya, five years her junior, even if it didn't feel like it, had helped her see that. Sae was certain of it this time, there was something special about him. As much as the implications left her feeling a little too warm, she wanted to find out just what it was that made him so special.

It was a simple curiosity, that was all.

Ren shifted in his seat, catching her attention as he pulled out his phone. His eyes widened slightly. From where she sat, the brilliant illuminated time of twelve thirty-four told her all she needed to know.

Sae was no stranger to the situation, during her highschool years there were plenty of late night shifts that left her stranded. Back then she'd simply had to walk back and hope for the best. There had been some rough nights but she managed.

While he was male, it still wasn't safe to walk alone at night.

"Missed the train home?"

He ran a hand through his hair and sighed, pocketing his phone.

"Yeah, well, I could use a good walk anyway."

Sae knew he would have made the train if he hadn't stayed to talk with her. Part of it was responsibility, and the other was courtesy. It had been a while since she'd had a conventional friend, and even her relationship to him was quite unconventional, but she knew she cared for his well being.

She sent him a cheerful smile.

"Nonsense, Ren..." she declared.

He looked confused and she laughed softly.

"...sit a while longer and let me sober up. I'll drive you home."

Ren's onyx eyes widened.

"Really? You don't mind?"

"Of course not. It wouldn't do if my favorite barista was stabbed to death outside an alleyway while he was walking home."

The thought crossed his mind and he laughed nervously at the prospect.

"Yeah, I think I'd like to avoid that. Thank you, Sae."

She was happy to do it.

"Consider it repayment for your excellent customer service," a sense of playfulness settled in, "and plus, it would only add more to my already considerable load of paperwork if you were murdered."

That earned a chuckle out of Ren.

"Oh no, we couldn't have that. You're already overworked as it is."

They shared a laugh and she ordered a glass of water to help pass the alcohol through her system. Just like it was at Leblanc, they shared in each other's company, talking about various things, whatever came to mind. He asked about her chess skills and soon enough a rematch was promised.

They exchanged numbers, both agreeing a way to keep in contact with each other would be convenient.

With everything she had said to him, she was happy that she didn't regret it. Sae decided right then and there, that she would make an effort to be more open with him.

It had been a long day, but this felt like a good way to end it.

Nighttime

Ren looked on in awe.

He knew being a public prosecutor paid well but he wasn't expecting Sae's car to be so nice. He didn't know much about cars, it wasn't his wheelhouse, but he knew an expensive one when he saw it. The seats consisted of smooth light leather with a polished design spanning the car's interior. Outwardly, the car was painted a glossy dark grey with bright angular headlights and a sleek frame. Overall, it radiated a sense of status.

"Nice car," he said quietly, almost in reverence.

Sae laughed as she walked to the driver's side of the car.

"Come on, let's get you home," she said, bemused.

The drive to Yongen-Jaya was peaceful. The radio played a soft melody as Ren looked out the window and watched Tokyo's nightlife pass by.

The last four hours had been pleasant. He hadn't expected to see Sae but was glad that he had. He'd taken a huge risk by initiating physical contact with Sae. He hadn't even thought to, it just sort of happened. Ren was just glad she seemed okay with it.

But more than that he was happy she had opened up to him. Tonight he'd seen a softer, almost vulnerable, side of Sae. It felt good, even if alcohol was involved. Would she be that way again without such influences? He hoped so.

Sae rounded a corner and pulled into the alleyway outside Leblanc. Rolling to a stop, she put the car in park.

"Here we are; last stop for cafe Leblanc," she said lightly.

Sae looked at him, her dark crimson eyes waiting.

"Thanks, Sae, I really appreciate the ride."

He met them, hoping to show that he meant it. She smiled warmly as he opened the car door. Before he could fully move, she caught him. Ren turned back to her as Sae held his hand similarly to how he had held hers back at Crossroads.

In the dim light of the alley, he was able to see the faint hint of pink across her cheeks.

"Ren, I wanted to say thank you again..."

Her thumb traced the same circles across his hand and suddenly returning to the cold attic above Leblanc didn't seem so important anymore.

"...for listening to what I had to say. I think I know what I need to tell Makoto now. I also wanted to say thanks for..."

She squeezed his hand gently.

"...for that."

Her closeness stirred the memory of the kiss he'd received from the woman at Crossroads. Ren's eyes drifted to Sae's glossed lips. He could only think of what it would be like if she did the same. In the faint light, her black turtleneck cut a curving and inviting figure. They were only a few inches apart, it would be so easy. But soon she let go of his hand, and he pulled himself back from his thoughts of her.

She offered a lovely smile.

"I'll see you soon, Ren; take care."

He returned the gesture.

"You too, Sae."

With those parting words he stepped out of the car and watched as it hummed to life and drove away. For a moment he stood in the alley under the lamppost light and just smiled. Ren knew they were just friends, but he also knew that he wouldn't object if that were to change into something more.

Softly, the faint sound of chains breaking rattled in his head. It signified the improvement of one of his many bonds. Judgment had entwined itself closer within his own soul.

It would be complicated. She, a public prosecutor and he, a metaphysical thief. But that didn't matter. With all the strange new things in his life in Tokyo, Ren was inclined to believe anything was possible.

But for now, it was one step at a time.

Eventually, he turned on his heel and unlocked the dark and desolate entrance to Leblanc. He slipped through the door quietly and went upstairs to get some rest after a long and pleasant night.

The next morning he awoke to Morgana's frantic questions about why there was a bundle of condoms on the work desk.

When Sae parked the car, rode the elevator, and stepped into her apartment, she felt good. She closed the door softly and leaned her back up against it as she was immersed in her thoughts.

Sae had been running all week, and finally, she felt as though she could stand her ground. Sae hated relying on others, but Ren had really helped her get herself back together. It didn't feel so bad when it was him.

Her thoughts drifted to the moments before they parted. Sae's cognition of romance and attraction were skewed and sparse at best. But even she could sense something had been in the air between them.

It left her feeling warm, and even shedding her suit jacket didn't seem enough to quell the rising heat. Ren certainly was attractive, and the fact that he had matured past the looks of his age didn't help one bit. His height was certainly something she liked.

But he was still younger.

Suddenly feeling self conscious, she wanted to laugh at herself. What was she thinking? She must still be a little bit under the influence. She was too old for him, period… right?

With a quick huff, she discarded those thoughts and simply relished in the comfort of the night. Realizing she had closed, but not locked the door, she turned and twisted the latch shut. As her gaze swiveled back to her apartment's main hallway, she spotted a light further in that had gone unnoticed earlier.

Past the kitchen and living room, she peered into the bedroom hallway. Sae was surprised to see light bleeding through the corners of Makoto's door.

What was Makoto still doing awake?

Suddenly faced with the opportunity, a pit began to grow in her stomach. She wanted to knock on the door and talk to her. But what if she didn't listen? What if the divide had grown too great?

Doubts circled her mind and her good mood began to ebb away into the dark corners of the silent apartment.

No.

She wouldn't run away from this. It might be easier to let the bridge burn, to give up and cut ties. But she didn't want that, and she knew Ren didn't either.

She stood straight and approached the door.

Sae's hand curled and she held it out. As she knocked softly, she recalled the feeling of his hand on hers and she let out one last breath.

"Makoto? Are you awake? May I come in?"

"Sis? You're home?" came Makoto's muffled voice, "oh, um yes, come in."

Sae stepped into the room and closed the door carefully. Makoto sat at her desk clad in her typical Bunchimaru pajamas as a single lamp illuminated a plethora of student council paperwork. Her sister had turned to face her but shuffled awkwardly in her seat, not meeting her gaze.

Sae knew this wasn't going to be easy, but she wanted to make it right.

"Can't sleep?"

Makoto, bleary eyed, nodded.

"There was some paperwork I needed to catch up on anyway."

Sae couldn't help but note the similarities between them. Ren was right, they were both driven. She had been so angry and resentful, thinking Makoto had it easy. Her sister's work was just as important and taxing in their own ways.

"Hey, Makoto…"

For the first time that night, their crimson eyes met, dark and bright. For some reason Sae thought of the night she had become acquainted with Ren Amamiya, and the kindness he'd given her then.

"...let's take a break."

"Sis?"
Sae opened the door and leaned in its empty frame.

"Come on, if we're going to be up anyway, I'll make some coffee. I thought maybe we could talk?"

It was quiet for a while, but Makoto's stiff posture slowly loosened and she smiled.

"I… I'd like that."

(June 27) After School

"Joker, they're weak to nuclear attacks!"

"Queen you're up!" he called out.

Blue flames roared to life as the ground trembled with a rumbling engine.

"Full throttle, Johanna!"

She weaved past them in a silvery blue blur.

Radiant cyan blasts of light struck the group they had encountered faster than he could call forth the faithful phoenix within him. He'd given the order but she had actualized his command with strict and brutal precision.

The radioactive motorcycle growled as it charged forward, its rider facing the enemy with a steely gaze. As the vehicular persona approached the shadows, Makoto leapt off the seat and let the bike crash into the crowd before pulling out her revolver and proceeded to blast high caliber rounds into their shaking shrieking bodies.

As she landed, a tuck and roll to the side, the remnants of the shadows began to fade and wither, defeated as they returned to the great sea of unconsciousness.

With a small flourish she holstered her firearm, a content smile adorning her fierce features as she walked back to the party.

"Well someone seems fired up today," Ryuji commented.

Ren had to agree with his blonde teammate. Since the start of their palace infiltration for the day, Makoto had been more energetic and enthusiastic than normal.

As the team congratulated her on a skillful take down, he smiled to himself.

Late Afternoon

Their palace endeavors ended with securing their infiltration route to Kaneshiro's treasure. Tomorrow, they would be ready to send out the calling card.

As he made his way back home on the train, he pulled out his phone and navigated to his chatroom with Sae. She hadn't come to the cafe yesterday, but in the mid-afternoon, he had received his first texts from her.

There were only two messages, a picture and a short sentiment. In the box of pixels was an embarrassed and startled Makoto as Sae stood smiling beside her at the crepe shop in Shibuya. Below that was the second message: 'Thank you for last night, Ren. We made up.'

Ren smiled once more and pocketed his phone, simply happy he had been able to help. For the rest of the train ride home, he thought fondly of Sae Niijima and marveled at their chance encounters.

He hoped there would be many more to come.

A/N: Wow, that was a longer chapter than I had originally planned to write. For this part of the story, after their fallout, I definitely wanted to explore more of Sae's psychology and how she handled the pressures of her life. I'm glad to be writing again. Until the next chapter, farewell.

Edit: Typos