Someday You'll Learn to LoveMe

by Dorotheian

In which Izaya gets this bright idea to lie low in Ikebukuro and avoid attracting attention with his information brokerage after the events of "World at Peace" by joining L.M.E., dragging an unwilling Shizuo with him straight into the LoveMe section. Too late to get out now, there are life lessons to be learned! (IzaNami, Shinra/Celty, Kyoko/Tsuruga) {in-progress}

28. Recess 13

Recess #13: Manager Hikawa - Do's & Don'ts of Communicating with Kasuka

1) Don't expect an answer.

2) Do watch his body language. Subclause 2a) Do watch for level-headed eye contact and slow blinks (distinguishes false from genuine indifference)

3) Don't talk too fast.

4) Don't expect him to ask questions.

5) Do take him to see his brother Shizuo on occasion. Subclause 5a) Do watch him interact with Shizuo and pick up clues from that. Subclause 5b) Shizuo derives just as much benefit from these sessions as Kasuka does. Subclause 5c) in case of career demotivation, use this method

6) Do expect him to understand more than he appears to.

7) Do preferably use emotional appeal when negotiating. Subclause 7a) must be based on something you know about him, however.

8) Do ask for a decision at the end of the appeal.

9) Don't act on decisions until Kasuka responds "yes" or "no."

10) Don't listen to exceptionally stupid talk radio hosts in the car. (He falls asleep.) You will get angry, but it will not inspire debate. 10a) Do nothing in anger, even anger at someone else; he will shut down and refuse to talk to you for hours.

11) Do wait a long time for answers.

12) Do find out Kasuka's likes and dislikes. Subclause 12a) rock music, vampire movies, yogurt, and...? Subclause 12b) Do make Truth or Dare a regular thing if you have to. (Thank heavens he always prefers Truth...)

13) Do bring yogurt for between-shoots.

14) Do send frequent letters and cards slipped into his jacket, bento, or other paraphernalia. Subclause 15a) He replies. Subclause 14b) He communicates! Subclause 14c) They're really sweet! Subclause 14d) He knows more about you than you know about him... *depressed*

15) Do make sure your jobs are fun. Subclause 15a) Do help him laugh. Subclause 15b) It's okay if he doesn't. Try, try, try again...