Disclaimer: I do not own anything except my OC. Everything else belongs to the original creator

Chapter 11

3rd Pov

Aki walked along side the young Investigator, her hand resting on the girl's shoulder as the two passed through the living room. The woman smiled over to the girl, "You don't understand how happy I am right now, Yuzuki."

Her expression soften, Yuzuki paused so the two could continue speaking before they could call it to an end, "I'm so happy for you two, Aki." Furrowing her brows at the woman, "When do you plan to tell him?"

Giggling, Aki guided the girl towards the entrance of their home while whispering back to her, "I'm planning to tell him later tonight when he gets back."

"He'll be happy to hear the news," Yuzuki couldn't express how pleasant it was to hear that the pair will be starting a whole new chapter of their lives together and all she could hope for was the best for them.

Once they came into the small hall where Fura stood at the end waiting for the girl and Aki allowed the young Investigator to join her husband so the two of them could take their leave. Yet the woman couldn't wait to share the news, but she'll wait until later so for now she could only just stay quiet. However, she reached over to Yuzuki and pulled her away from her husband's side so she could remind the girl about a few things.

Yuzuki stood beside Fura, who were both planning to leave, but the girl still was dragged away by the woman and Yuzuki smiled at her, "Thank you for having me over."

Aki waved it off, holding the girl by the shoulders as she chuckled, "You're always welcomed here, Yuzuki."

Fura sighed, waiting since it was getting to the time that he needs to be at work, but he added on, "It gives you some space as well."

Yuzuki smiled over to the man before shaking her head while returning her attention to woman, "Most certainly, but I don't want to feel like a burden."

Placing an arm around the young teen as she finally walked over to her husband, who was waiting beside the door, "Absolutely not, I've enjoyed our time today, so don't be a stranger and call when you want to talk," Her expression soften, her hand brushed through the girl's light hair and Aki smiled faintly as her mind wondered off to the possible future.

"Thank you, Aki, I'll keep that in mind," Yuzuki laughed while nodding as she walked over to Fura.

Glancing down his watch, he sighed before grabbing his case, "Alright, I think it's time for me to take you back," He kiss his wife before heading off to work along with dropping off the girl to her home, opening the door he waited for Yuzuki.

Aki waved the two off while reminding the girl, "Remember what I said, don't be a stranger," Smiling as she watched the two leave, "I hope to see you some time soon."

"I'll try to come visit more sooner," Yuzuki glanced over her shoulder, smiling at the woman before Fura closed the door behind them and they began to head towards his car. The three of them spent the morning together and it was already afternoon, which involved Fura heading to headquarters and Yuzuki planned to return back to the 20th Ward.

The drive was quiet, but it wasn't awkward as they enjoy the silence sometimes. Fura kept his eyes on the road but he started up a conservation with the girl in the passenger seat, "Made any new friends in the 20th Ward?" Sparing a glance to her as he pointed out a fact, "Been over a year since you've moved there."

Yuzuki was taken back from the question, but she decided not to lie about it when she answered back, "I... I actually have made a few friends," Smiling, she chuckled while adding on, "They make my day better after a hard days work in CCG."

"Really?" He smiled, he chuckled that the girl wasn't isolating herself in the ward, "Care to share, how are they like?"

Yuzuki knew how to play her cards right so she planned not to reveal their names nor any more information beside simple things, "They're students currently in a university and well mannered, so don't think I'm hanging around the wrong crowed," Looking over to the man, "Maybe one day you'll meet them."

Raising a brow, he made a turn while asking another question, "Has Arima met your friends?" Fura didn't spare another glance to the girl while trying to clear a few points, "Or have you been trying to keep them from meeting us since we're CCG Investigators?"

Yuzuki lowered her eyes, "Fura, I don't think randomly mentioning that my whole family is part of CCG will only make them more caution on what they say," Sighing, she shook her head while stating a fact, "Lets face it, some people don't like getting involved with us since we're exposed to such threats."

"So they don't know?"

"I'm planning to actually break it down to one of them," Leaning against her hand, Yuzuki kept her faded eyes fixed ahead of her while whispering, "Then see how the other will react based on first."

"If they're your friends then surely it won't bother them too greatly," Fura sighed, trying to reassure the girl about a few things involving her decision in regrades of her new friends.

"Tell me, how did you react when you discovered that my father was a Investigator?" Sitting up, Yuzuki raised a brow over to while turning the tables, "I mean, you were a high school student, so I can only imagine the thoughts that went through your mind."

A smirk crossed his lips the moment he realized what she did and he chuckled to himself, "I'm now seeing where you're going at now, Yuzuki. Always so carefully and so manipulative on when to turn the tables around in a conservation." He sighed while recalling the old times when he met Arima and he began to answer the girl's question, "Well, I was shock beyond belief to even consider that someone at his age was part of CCG."

"I thought over night about it and I won't deny that I didn't want to get involved with him or any CCG business at the time," Frowning slightly, he relaxed his grip on the steering wheel while stating, "Yet, I had my own goals so I sticked around with Arima despite him being a Investigator."

He shook his head as the memories resurfaced and he lost count of the number of times he exposed himself to the dangers that Arima been used to, "Got myself in some dangerous situations but I made it with his help," Glancing over to Yuzuki while coming to a conclusion, "So I understand why you're being very careful about exposing them to the fact of your connection to CCG. Especially if their around you, well I wouldn't want to burden with the thoughts of me going off fighting ghouls or them feeling afraid that they'll be targeted."

"But it's up to you if you wish to let them in on that part of your life," He shrugged to himself and a sigh escaped his lips, "If you want, I won't mention a thing to the others such as Arima and Juuzou."

Yuzuki leaned back in her seat while revealing her own thoughts on the subject, "I have thought this through many times, always considering the best option, but yet I wish to take baby steps," A faint smile appeared on her lips and she turned over to him while assuring and she chuckled, "Maybe you'll meet them and I hope that Arima doesn't scary them too badly."

"They should be prepared to meet me as well if their young men," Fura soon got into the overprotective mode, but he allowed a smirk to appear when he added, "Then they certainly need to be capable of handling Juuzou as well."

"Now I'm a bit worried of what you'll do, Fura," Yuzuki smirked at how the man reacted at the thought of her friends being boys and the girl leaned her elbow against the door frame. It also made her smile at how much of a father could be and surely the man will do fine after discovering a few things later.

"So they are young men?"

Raising a brow while countering his question with her own question, "Are they?"

He frowned at her since she dodged his question with another question, "Yuzuki, don't play such childish games now."

Chuckling, Yuzuki raised a brow while commenting, "Coming from the rebellion teen back in his youth?"

"I've grown since then," Fura shook his head, smiling as she went back to the old times, but he soon frowned to himself as his mind began to wonder back too.

Sighing, she finally revealed one detail to the man, "Yes they are, but don't worry they're not bad and you're aware that I'm capable of handling myself perfectly fine," Turning her attention away from him, she faced the window while adding onto her case, "I have a good sense of judgment, Fura, so don't worry over me."

"Fine," Fura sighed, pulling in front of the complex that the girl lives in, he looked over to her while giving his own advise, "But with whatever your decision is, I hope they don't hold that against you or have yourself feeling guilt for keeping that from them."

"I know," Lowering her eyes, she took in a deep breath before smiling over to him, "Thank you, Fura."

"I'll see you later hopefully around CCG," He smiled back at the girl, "Take care, Yuzuki."

"You too," Jumping off the car, she held the door for a moment before biding him farewell and she closed the door, "Till then, Fura."

Kaneki's Pov

I laid here in my own thoughts, not wanting to move or do anything in reality because what can I do. Shutting my eyes, I can't deal with this like they expect me to just roll with it or just accept it. Opening my eyes, I released a heavy sigh while my eyes were fixed on the ceiling and I just remembered that I skipped class. But before I could even complain about catching up with what I missed, I heard the sound that made me want to scream out in frustration.

Curling up, I frowned to myself when my stomach growled again, I hate that sound with so much passion...

Taking in a deep breath, I got up and I finally left my room. My eyes landed on my phone that I've forgotten on the couch, but I didn't bother getting it right now. Instead, I made myself a cup of coffee to just get rid of the stupid sounds that constantly remind me that I'm not human. Sighing, I grabbed my cup and wondered to the couch and I frowned when I began to think about a few things, I haven't learned much and honestly it's only annoying me so much...

Setting the cup on the table before throwing myself across the couch, covering my face as I sighed in frustration, But all I can do is be patient

I can't just lay around and pity myself forever then my hand skimmed around to find my phone and I sighed again when I saw the notifications, Hide? He called and texted me...

Placing the phone onto my chest, I tighten my grip while shutting my eyes. With everything that I can't possible be near him or have him around me like before. Then I felt my eyes sting as the thought came across my mind, I can't see him... Tears were there as I began to wonder if I can ever walk along side him or even be his friend when I'm like this.

Covering my eyes with my arm, I released a shaky breath when everything was just sinking in and now I don't even know what to do. If I can't be friends with Hide then I can't be friends with Yuzuki either. How can I be around them when I'm a monster.

Taking in a deep breath, I continued to check the rest of my notifications and I saw that she also messaged me, I can't see her... Dropping my phone, I ran a hand down my face as the guilt began to weigh over me and how I'm making them worry over me. I don't have anything to say to them, I can't just ignore the fact that I'm not normal or how I pushed them aside as if I don't care.

I stared at the ceiling while the scent of the coffee filled the space and I frowned to myself, How can I bring myself to be surrounded my ghouls...? Sitting up, I leaned over as I pressed my head against my knee, Honestly, I don't understand how all this happened to me

Chuckling, I shook my head as I felt a broken smile cross my face and I reached over for the cup, It's some sick joke...

Holding the cup between my hands, I lowered my eyes into I saw my reflection staring back at me then I sighed under my breath, ...I need space...

Yuzuki's Pov

Leaning against the counter, I raised a brow while Touka was trying to finish up some school work that she needs to do and I smiled. I'm glad to see the girl actually taking advantage at the chance she has in going to school since many ghouls don't attend school, so I'm happy to see her work hard. Especially since she gotten herself a friend and without a doubt Touka can't deny that the girl is someone important to her.

Walking over to her, I didn't want to bother her, but I had a few things to discuss with her and I needed to get them out of the way. Sitting down on her bed, keeping my eyes closed and I sighed under my breath before finally speaking, "You should be a bit more easier on him, Touka," Leaning my head over against my shoulder while sparing her a look, "He's all new to this so please just bare with him."

"Speaking from the one who isn't babysitting him," Touka adjusted her headphones while tightening her grip over her pencil while arguing back, "He has to know that being a ghoul isn't all that easy! We're only lucky to fit in enough and to stay out of trouble."

"Touka," I shook my head, releasing a heavy sigh as I revealed my next step, "I'm deciding on telling him about me being a Investigator."

Touka chuckled, setting the pencil down before turning her chair to face me, "You've certainly gone crazy, haven't you." She crossed her arms, leaning back in her chair while frowning, "The kid barely found out about us, he trying to fit in as a ghoul and now you want him to know you're the enemy."

"I can't just keep lying," My eyes dropped, curling my fingers into the material that covered the bed as I frowned to myself, "Then I'll find the right moment to let Hide know, but for know I just need to know how Kaneki will react."

"That idiot probably doesn't even know much about you doves," Turning away, Touka returned her attention on her school work while commenting, "That other friend of yours, I don't know how he'll react if you tell him."

Narrowing my eyes, clenching my hands as I remembered a topic that Fura informed me earlier when I went over to visit, but I can't believe it, "I also wanted to tell you about something important that I've been hearing around CCG."

Touka froze, dropping the pencil while glaring over to me, "What is it?"

I sat there in silence for a few minutes, in truth I don't know how to bring up the subject to her especially if I don't know much about it which I need to dig around to get some more information. Sighing, "They're planning to be placing a few new Investigators in this Ward as their sector," Shaking my head, I kept my eyes closed as my fingers held the blanket tightly within my grasps, "I'm not positive of who will be placed in this area nor do I know what my role will be since I'm a residence of this Ward."

Touka didn't say anything for a moment then I heard something and surely she must have kicked her trash bin while muttering, "More doves?" Then I finally heard the pure anger in her voice as her feet touched the ground and I knew she was standing in front of me, "Why! There hasn't been any activities lately!"

Finally opening my eyes, I saw the outlines of her feet and I frowned to myself before turning away, "I know, I'm as confused as you, but certainly the heads of CCG are moving their pieces for a reason," Bringing a hand to my face, I took in a deep breath before lifting my head up to her, "I'll try my best to cover up scenes and throw them off if possible."

I saw how she clenched her hands, the way her expression harden and how she turned away from me while muttering under her breath, "More shit to deal with..."

Touka paused once she returned to her desk and she turned over to me, "Oh, Kaneki mentioned he wants space," My eyes widen, I furrowed my brows at her as she continued on, "Overheard him speaking to the manager during one of his little lesions."

A sigh escaped from my lips, I can't deny that I've seen the signs lately, but what is there to do, "I've noticed, he hasn't answered any my messages and Hide also told me that Kaneki has put a distance between them lately," All I can is at least do that, but I can't leave him alone if this is bothering him and I shook my head, "But if he really wants space, then I'll give him that, but I can't let him suffer alone in silence."

"I'm aware that he's the type of person to bottle everything up, to let people hurt him instead of taking action, and certainly if those traits carry on with him being as he is now," Leaning over, I covered my face as began to wonder the possible outcomes if this continues and I felt my breath escape while my words followed as a whisper, "All I know is that he'll be so unstable."

"I'm not dealing with him if he has a breakdown or anything," Touka finally taking a seat again, I could hear the annoyance and the hopelessness in her tone as she revealed, "Especially since he's being stubborn and not eating. That idiot is starving himself."

Leaning against the frame of the bed, I kept my eyes still as I made out the lines that created the dresser not so far from the bed, I won't blame him... Being human for his whole life and now being forced to eat humans in order to survive must be difficult to overcome...

"You gonna tell him that you're a ghoul too or not?"

Shutting my eyes, I felt the weight on my shoulders begin to push me further into the hole that I dug myself, but I managed to reply, "...I want to tell him one thing at a time..."

"God, I don't want to be around to since this play out,"

I felt my body tense up as I felt the need to inform the girl about some other information that I have yet to speak about with Yoshimura. Turning over to the girl who returned to working, "Touka?"

She didn't sound too interested as she tried to keep her focus on her work, "Hmm?"

"I've have news on the Fueguchi family," Sitting up straight, laced my fingers together while lowering my face.

"Are they okay?!" I heard how she jumped off the chair as she rushed over to me, demanding to know answers to her questions in regards of the family. This is one of the few times I've heard her sound so despite and worried, "Is Hinami fine?"

"They're fine from the last time I checked on them," I reassured her so she wouldn't worry too much about the situation, yet I still cleared a few details, "But with how things are going, Ryouko and Hinami will be going into hiding soon. Asaki will be left behind, even when I told him not to, but the man is reluctant in protecting his family. So I can't be too harsh on him."

"Why?" Touka began to pace a bit as she tried to understand what was going on, "What the hell happened?"

Shaking my head, I released a deep breath while informing her of the reasons, "He has brought some attention on himself, drawing it on his family as well is the two Investigators find any hint of other ghouls living with him. None of the less having a family. Along with the fact that he happened to get himself involved with some troublesome ghouls."

Frowning to myself, I've tried in helping them, I've done my best in throwing off other Investigators or even keeping them out of sight until they were at least safe to move opening again. But still, some habits just die hard and certainly I can't find a bright side to this situation that this has turned to.

Clenching my hands, I glared at the ground as I recalled the pair that took on the case and without a doubt it had to be Mado that got his hands onto this, "I've discovered the two Investigators that are given the case in regards with Asaki Fueguchi and I'm very worried."

"Is it that Re-"

"No." My eyes widen, my voice became stern as she tried to pin it on someone that I refuse to hear the cursed name. Shaking my head, I stood up while frowning at her and I found myself defending him here in front of the girl that fell victim to his blade, "It's not him. It's someone else who I have dealt with and all I can say is, that man is beyond broken so he will without a doubt succeed in tracking them down if he finds Asaki."

Touka quickly asked about the two ghouls, "Where are Ryouko and Hinami?"

"From the last I heard, they are home currently, but I don't know when they'll be leaving," Turning away, I crossed my arms as I explained, "Surely, they'll come here to Anteiku without a doubt and I'll do my best in helping them as well."

"...At least they're fine right now..."

Lowering my eyes, I could recall the first time that I found the family and the reasons behind it. Yet even over the course of the time that I've met them in person, I've done my best to help the family, but there's so much that I can do until I hit my limit and surely I'm finally reaching the end point. Sighing, I shut my eyes as everything began to settle in and surely Touka is letting the information sink in as well.

Flashback:

I should have expected them to react in such matter, but it doesn't amaze me at how protective the head of the family got when he saw my presence. I would've reacted the same way if I saw a stranger in my home and certainly not knowing what their intentions were. Yet I know he'll see reason after knowing who I am underneath the mask.

"Stand behind me," Glaring dangerously towards me, holding a hand over his family as he raised his voice, "Who are you?"

I watched how defense he got within the passing second and he surely was preparing to attack if need, "What do you want from us?"

I sighed under my breath, holding my hands up as I removed the hood while introducing myself, "My name is Phantom, I'm not here to hurt you or your family," Keeping my hands up to prove that I was not threat, "I'm here to inform you of the dangers you're placing upon your family."

The man wasn't convince as he narrowed his eyes at me, "Why should I trust you?"

"Because..." Bringing my hand to my mask, I took a deep breath before removing it to expose my true identity and my eyes remain still while stating a cold fact, "My name is Yuzuki Bellerose, the daughter of Yuri Bellerose."

I watched how his whole body language changed within seconds after revealing my face and name to him. I didn't move as I studied how he lowered his hand while his voice became a mere whisper as if he saw a ghost, "Yuri... I've heard the Bellerose family were gone about-"

I shook my head, a faint smile appeared on my face and it only expression the sad story behind it which I could only share vaguely, "My parents died over a decade ago," Sighing, I looked down at the mask within my hands before returning my full attention back to him, "My mother did everything in order for me to survive. So I do hope that you'll consider in listening to me on behave on my mother's memories."

Adjusting his glasses, he began to wonder to himself, "It's been so long since I've heard her name ever since she and the others were killed..."

I smiled at him, the man didn't know that not all of them died and certainly I know he won't search for the other survivor, "Osamu is still alive, he continues to work on the research that you all have left behind and the poor man has gain such burdens in making sure that none of it was useless."

Asaki smiled to himself, he sounded so relief to hear that he wasn't the only one to survive through the trails that they faced, "I wouldn't have thought that he made it this far..."

Chuckling, he realized something important, "Forgive me," Motioning to the two behind him, he smiled back to me before giving me a proper introduction, "This is my family. My wife Ryouko and my daughter Hinami."

He looked at his family before reassuring them that I wasn't a threat then he looked back over to me, "This is the daughter of an old friend from my youth."

Ryouko offered me a smile as she continued to hold her daughter close, "It's nice to meet you,"

I felt a smile appear on my lips when I noticed the small girl try to hid behind her mother, "Aren't you a shy one, but certainly beautiful," I turned my focus back to the man that I came to speak to, "You have a wonderful family."

"Thank you," He quickly returned back to the main point to why I decided to show up, "But why did you come here?"

Holding the mask within my grasps, I stared down at it as I began to explain, "Over the years, the challenges, and hardship... I'm working at CCG," Quickly, I held my hand up in defense before they could react or jump to conclusions, "Before you say a word."

Clearly up a few things, I shook my head while keeping my eyes set on him, "No, I'm not here to turn you or anyone in nor will I speak a word about your location. Even tho I'm a Investigator, I hardly do my job unless I'm being watched, but even then I still act on my will. Not theirs."

"So be reassured that I'm here as a friend," Offering them a smile, I slowly began to reveal my true intentions, "And as a friend I wish to inform you that CCG has began to take notice on your activities, Asaki. They will by no means begin to put a case together and try to find you."

"I'm only here to make sure you were aware of it," My expression soon became serious as I spoke about the trouble that the man is placing his family in and I reassured them that I'll do my best to help them, "Also, I'll be keeping tabs on what they know so I could tell you and you'll be steps ahead of them."

"Thank you," Asaki took in the information, I watched how he ran a hand into his hair before turning over to me and he chuckled under his breath, "You are your mother's daughter."

"Yuzuki, isn't it," My eyes widen slightly when I realized that that Ryouko spoke up again, "Thank you for going through the trouble of finding us and telling us."

I smiled at her, "It's no problem, I only wish to make sure you all will be safe."

Blinking, I noticed that the young girl finally left her mother's side for a moment, but it was enough for her to get close to me, "Are you the one that is a ghost?"

"Yes~" Kneeling down in front of her, I held out my mask to her while giggling at how she hesitant before accepting it, "I've gain some rumors lately, but don't worry I'm just as alive as you."

My expression soften at what the young girl said next and surely I felt my eyes drift away when she finally took noticed, "You can't see..."

Giggling, I shook my head as I tried to stay positive and I reached out to her while my fingers brushed over to her head piece, "Yet I can see a young lady with flower in her hair."

Asaki took the mask out of his daughter's hands when she was done looking at it and the man was amazed at how it perfectly made for me. Pushing his glasses up his nose while carefully examining the mask within his grasps, "Your mask, the technology used to improve your sight is outstanding."

Standing, I raised a brow over to him, "I've heard you make some of your own gear," Walking over to him, I regained my mask and I looked up at him, "Can I ask for a favor?"

"Of course,"

My eyes landed on the mask again, my fingers skimming the smooth surface of it until I felt some of the design, "Is it possible for you to make something similar to a quinque, something that can withstand a kagune or an actual quinque, but of course not really being a quinque."

He looked through his desk while stating, "I have a few prototypes around. If you like I can give you some,"

"Thank you,"

"No." The man shook his head while offering a smile to me, "Thank you for telling me the mistake I've made, but I'll be more caution in protecting my family."

That was the day I finally met Fueguchi family, I've grown attached to them and I've done my very best as Phantom or even Yuzuki in helping them through any struggles they faced. When I wasn't there for them, they had Anteiku to fall back on, but surely running away from their troubles can't last forever because one day it all comes to an end. Which I'll do my best in holding it off as long as possible.

Looking over to the young teen and I smiled at the memory of Hinami going on how she wishes to see Touka again. Walking over to her, I felt the need to at least lighten up the mood, "Hinami wants to see you again, Touka," Leaning against her desk while she sat quietly in her chair and I added on, "I've told her a few things that your up to and she can't wait to see you."

Touka sighed, leaning against her elbows as she wondered, "I can't either, but I hope it won't be in bad timing..."

Closing my eyes, I whispered back, "I hope so too..."

Crossing my arms, I couldn't stand how the possible end will be a tragedy none of the less and surely Touka will do anything to protect Hinami because Touka valued the young girl as a little sister she never had.

My fingers curled into my sleeves, I can't bare to handle another family being torn apart by the very people I work for...

Frowning, I clenched my hands, I won't stand for it

3rd Pov

Night fell over the city as many remained behind doors so they won't face the horrors of what the night held, but there is always that small percentage that roamed within the shadows. It was also the night that Phantom strolled through the 20th Ward, her main goal was to keep any trouble on the down low since more doves will be arriving sooner than she ever wanted.

Lately activity within the ward wasn't too bad compared to others such as the 13th, but it wasn't cleared like the 1st since that is where CCG's headquarters was located. She met a few ghouls within the area that will cause trouble and few were caution to not go overboard in fear that Anteiku or even Phantom will make them rethink their actions. While a smaller percentage has agreed to what Anteiku and Phantom want to do, so they keep themselves from drawing attention to themselves or the ward.

Keeping out of sight, she wondered through the abandon apartment complex that was foreclosed long ago and soon forgotten, so it remained a ghost town. Phantom carefully passed through in case any ghouls has used the place to hide, so she kept quiet as usual.

Her eyes lowered behind the mask when she entered a empty room with only a few random pieces of furniture laying around such as a coffee table, a couch and a worn out chair.

Flashback:

The two of them stood over the edge of the building, looking down at the city lights that lit up the place, but even those lights couldn't chase away the darkness that creeps over them ever so slightly. Both of them keeping a distance from each and within the span of a year, they kept meeting up even if it always ends with someone disagreeing or them merely trying to force the other into submission.

Yet they grown use to it and that night wasn't any different like the other meet ups. However, it was one of those rare moment that brought up the whole idea of changing the world around them.

Eto stood there, her eyes fixed on the city while her folding her arms behind her, "The world will start anew one day," Giggling, a faint smile appeared on her lips even if the gauze hid it, but without a doubt it was there, "It'll be such a shame to see how it all plays out."

"You should join me, sister," Turning over to the other girl who remain quiet until she finished speaking and Eto turned away from the ledge, "We can make the others fear us, we can change the world and all will restart to the way it should."

A sigh escaped her lips, her shoulders lowered while holding her hands behind her as she simply stated, "I'm not picking any sides nor will I be part of your little plans."

Shaking her head, Phantom could only try and remain away from the path that Eto has carved along side a few others, "I already have to deal with CCG and I don't want to continue to add fuel into the fire that you're ignited along with every death that is caused by CCG or ghoul."

"You know, you can't stay neutral forever," Pointing out the obvious fact and Eto grinned to herself as she began to defined the girl's actions, "You can't be a rook forever, always watching from your tower and moving forward, backward, left and right in your own belief."

"Always trying to be the middle ground between in the field," A chuckle left her and Eto moved over to younger girl while bringing up the topic, "I have to admit, you as Phantom have started a different movement that I'm amused to actually see unfolding slowly."

Facing the shorter ghoul, she moved passed her while replying, "If anything... I can't choose in helping in the plan that you've created along side him..." Pausing, Yuzuki stood still as her eyes landed on the ground and she continued on, "All I can is try to walk down my own path that holds my own beliefs on how this world should changed."

"Yuzuki, there is never a happy ending in the paths that are destined for us," Twirling around, she held her arms open while reminding the white cloaked girl of a sad truth that has constantly catching up with them, "Only tragedy rains over us, so I'm merely waiting until you agree to finally work along side us."

"Like you said," Chuckling, she smirked back at woman while remaining her of her previous statement, "I'm a rook and you're the queen."

Frowning, releasing a deep breath before moving on, but her eyes caught sight of a small ghoul child who ran down the hall into a different room. Phantom stood still as she saw how the little boy kept seeking glances out the door towards her direction until she saw a young woman who glanced out, but quickly pulled the boy out of sight.

Shaking her head, of course there will be ghouls at such young ages trying to survive to see the next morning, but she can't simply let them suffer at such conditions. Yet the boy looked back from the room before motioning a hand towards her direction and Phantom raised a brow when she saw the other ghoul carefully study her.

Holding her hands up, she removed her hood revealing the blue hair and the two ghouls muttered to themselves until Phantom simply removed her cloak since she knew that the night gets cold. Holding it out to them, she watched how the older one was hesitant for a moment before he took it and the masked ghoul turned away since she doesn't have anything else to do for them, but to provide something to keep them warm through the night.

"Thank you..."

Pausing, she glanced over her shoulder to see the young boy offer a faint smile before returning to the room that they chose to stay in for the night. Then her attention shifted over to the other ghoul who wrapped the boy up before closing the door to the room.

Leaving the building, she jumped over to a different structure as her next move was to check the territory that once belonged to Rize. Phantom frowned to herself after discovering that the ghoul managed to claim some areas when she arrived, which caused some bad blood between her and the other ghoul who was beaten. Yet she heard rumors that the old owner of the territory has reclaimed it and has been causing some trouble since he was displaying that it was his area so no one would bother him again.

Flashback:

"How is he doing?"

Yoshimura continued to make the coffee while answering the dove's question, "The boy is still not fully accepting our lifestyle," He sighed, keeping his eyes on the cup as he poured the dark brown liquid into it, "Refuses to eat and I allowed him to stick with his decision because he'll learn quick with the consequences of that choice."

Yuzuki touched the counter of the shop as she furrowed her brows while trying to find a possible solution, "Why haven't you simply allowed him to tag along with Yomo to collect the supplies," Shaking her head, she knew it wasn't the best option, but she doesn't know what to do, "Even if it's gruesome, but he needs to at least know your methods are the least to trouble his soul."

"I'll consider it, but I've been informed that you wish to reveal a part of your life to him," The manger began to pour another cup as he turned the conservation around, "You wish to let him know you're an Investigator then do keep in mind that you are revealing that everyone you know besides us will be cleared as doves."

Setting aside the pot, he set a cup in front of the girl while stating a fact, "He'll eventually run into others who are friends of yours, more so... The boy might even face the man who has become your father, who has such a reputation among ghouls."

"If anything... I don't want him to meet anyone from that world, yet" Sitting on the stool, her eyes fell down at the cup resting in front of her, but she brought a hand to her face while pondering the right decision, "Maybe one day, I could introduce him to a few of them, but one at a time. I don't wish to make him uncomfortable."

"Are you planning to also tell him that you aren't exactly human either?" The old ghoul raised a brow at the young dove before he tried to persuade her into coming clean with the boy, "It may make him feel more accepted after knowing there is someone similar to him."

"I... I don't intend to tell him that right now, another day will be fine for that, but now I only want to let him know what I do," Curling her fingers around the cup, her eyes remain unmoving and her expression became stoic, "Why I leave and don't answer the phone... I need to let him know that I'm not normal..."

"Do you intend to mention Phantom?" The manager asked another important question to the girl, "After all, she is part of your life as well."

"Never." Quickly dismissing the thought of mentioning her alternate ego while firmly stating, "Not now nor do I know the right time to ever bring it up."

The girl began to explain her reasonings for why she decide to keep that a serest, "Phantom is something I wish to keep from involving Anteiku or anyone close," Frowning to herself, Yuzuki was fully aware of what trouble it'll bring to him or those that bother tangling up with her other persona, "I know the boundaries and the consequences of my actions if Phantom were to ever get caught."

"I believe he'll understand or accept it," Yoshimura brought his cup of coffee near his lips, but paused for a moment so he could continue on with his thoughts, "I've noticed that he does take your words into consideration, so don't feel too worried that he'll push you away."

Yuzuki chuckled to herself, shaking her head in disbelief while bringing up the troubling thoughts that haunt her, "He will when he knows I'm a ghoul, that I tricked him into eating human meat," Shutting her eyes, she felt sadness and guilt wash over as she continued to explain her reasonings, "I have made him believe that I'm normal, that I'm human, and I'm just a reminder that he is no longer human. I'm only hurting him because he believes I'm everything that he lost."

"Which is the very reason why he doesn't want to be around me or Hide," Lowering her head, she frowned to herself at the thought of how the boy was blaming himself for what he become, "He truly believe he isn't worthy of walking along our sides because we aren't of the same world."

A faint smile appeared on her lips, closing her eyes as she released a heavy sigh before looking up at the manager, "...In truth, our worlds are connected like your's is to us. Just like some humans are connected to us." Chuckling to herself, Yuzuki leaned against the palm of her hand as she kept her eyes lowered while whispering to herself, "It all because we can coexist if we try to understand each other, if we try to reveal the truth without destroying each other or ourselves in doing so."

"You truly care," He smiled at her, listening carefully to how the girl tried to pick the best option for the boy and he took a sip of his coffee, "You care for the boy's life and many ghouls and humans. Yuzuki, you and I both know that this world isn't in our control so-"

Shaking her head, Yuzuki frowned to herself as she firmly stated, "I'm no pawn nor will I be a bystander any longer," Her eyes never left the liquid and Yuzuki could sense how everything began to sink in even more with every day passing, "I've created Phantom in hopes to slowly merge our 'separate' worlds together. I'm no God nor King, so I will not accept the path to destruction in hopes that we'll find salvation."

Shutting her eyes, she picked the drink up as she took a sip, but it left a bitter taste in her mouth and the girl set in down before whispering, "If anything... I have hopes that Kaneki understands each side. Ghouls. Humans. CCG. Every perspective." Her fingers skimming over the rim of the cup, "I hope he understands the reasons behind my decisions and..."

Pausing, Yuzuki finally came to the decision that she once rejected earlier, but now she knows it's the right choice and surely Yoshimura was waiting for her to accept it, "I'll take responsibility of helping him understand this new side that ghouls face."

Yoshimura smiled, he picked his cup up again while reassuring the girl that her decision was the best option, "I know the boy will be in great hands if someone like you guides him."

"... I might not stop him from falling into temptation, but I do hope that I can save him before he falls further into the abyss," Sighing against the cup, Yuzuki set it down again as she lost her appetite when her mind wondered off and her fingers curled up, "I won't allow him, Touka, or anyone reach that point because that it something that no one can heal from until they find their own salvation..."

The cool air blew and she felt the strands of hair brush across her skin, her skin must be cool to the touch, but yet she couldn't feel it since her sense of touch has been something that has been lacking for some time. Even if her sight might be damaged, she can't feel much after the time period in which she under went some harsh torment that left her numb. But there are times where she could feel again, where the cold does bother her or how she could feel physical pain.

Sighing, she kept going while having a sharp sense of her surroundings when she passed through the roof. Reaching the edge, she leaped off and gracefully landing onto the next roof.

Flashback:

Leaning against her kneel, the ghoul stared down at the young man who seem to be caught off guard when she spoke up from her spot above him, "You should have listened to me when I said not to torment the lower ghouls who are starving," Raising a brow from behind her mask, she was tired already, but yet he seems to be too stubborn to listen, "You're just being selfish one in holding off others."

"Shut it, Phantom," He glared up at the ghoul while his eyes switched to their piecing red glow, "I don't care what rumors are about you, but I don't take kindly to those who order me around as if they own the place."

"Yet that is what you're doing yourself," Pointing down at him, she was aware of how the young college boy was and she was merely reminding him, "Nishiki, one day you'll face a foe greater than you and what will you do then?"

"I won't let some bastard take away my territory," Quickly getting on his defense, he pointed up at the ghoul and he threaten her, "So if you're trying to talk me into joining your little movement or what not then beat it before I make you!"

Holding a hand up in defense, Yuzuki tilted her head a bit to the side, "I won't tell you what to do, but I will say this alone," Frowning, she pointed back down at him before she stood up to take her leave, "Don't overstep your boundaries or else I will put you in your place."

"I'll make sure that you regret of ever talking to me like," Nishiki clenched his hands as he watched the ghoul walk away from him and he adjusted his glasses before walking down the area that he claimed.

Tilting her head, narrowing her eyes slightly the moment she caught sight of a young male who walked down the alley as if he owned the place. Shaking her head, Phantom leaned against the palm of her hand while keeping her eyes on the ghoul who was doing his little routine of checking the area.

Then she sighed under her breath while thinking, Looks like he reclaimed his area again... Not surprise he had to wait until the ghoul died because he knew there was no chance he'll win against her...

Standing, she stepped away since it was time for to clock out and head home since she'll be handling a few important things tomorrow. Stopping her tracks, she tilted her head slightly following with her brows furrowing the moment she realized that Touka was wondering over the roofs.

Phantom continued on until the young teen took notice of her presence, but Touka kept glancing below her as she kept track of the person she was following. Yet the high schooler crossed her arms when she stood across the ghoul who was in white with a faint glow surrounding her which could frighten any other ghoul, but Touka already knew.

Passing the girl, looking over her shoulder maintaining a cool and collective atmosphere around her as she merely asked, "What are you up too now, Touka?"

"Fresh air, what else?" Touka retorted before unfolding her arms when she turned to face the blue haired ghoul, "Surprised to actually run into you like this."

A chuckle escaped her lips yet the mask somehow many it sound so cold, "Likewise," Looking away, she gave a wave back with a flick of her wrist while commenting, "Don't get yourself in trouble."

"Tck-" Narrowing her eyes, Touka frowned at the comment before she raised a brow when she realized that the girl was leaving her alone, "I won't be that stupid so don't stick around."

Smirking, Phantom looked down to the streets and she caught sight of a figure which finally connected the pieces together to the reason that Touka was out. Wondering away, "I was heading home already," Smiling, Yuzuki glanced back at the girl before disappearing, "Goodnight Touka"

Touka stood there for a moment and she began to wonder what was going through the dove's mind, to understand the reasoning behind her actions, and it only made the girl frustrated. Narrowing her eyes, she turned away before returning to her task, It's anything then a good night...

Sighing, she kept out of sight while carefully studying the boy that walked down the sidewalk and Touka shook her head while keeping a steady pace with him, Gotta watch this idiot and make sure nothing stupid happens

Touka's Pov

Carefully landing onto the roof, I quietly walked over it while keeping an eye on him as he began to wonder through the ward and I couldn't help myself from glancing behind me. I swear if she's still wondering around the area to make sure that I won't kill the idiot then certainly it's a test or something.

Frowning, I clenched my hands as I remembered how she just walked away, Why did Yuzuki left me with the job...

I shook my head while bitterly thinking that she deliberately left me alone because she knew, I god damn know she's aware that I'm following that idiot!

I knelled down the moment he took a turn into the alley and I leaned my head against my knee as I carefully watched the kid, What's her plan of letting me follow?

Narrowing my eyes the moment I realized that he stumbled onto Nishiki's territory and I'm aware that ass doesn't take too kindly to any trespassers. Sighing, I sat back a bit longer to watch what will happen, Oh, looks like he got himself into some trouble...

I watched how Nishiki began to threaten the new guy then I frowned to myself while standing up, Ugh... I should step in now and kick that jackass off his high horse

"Hey, who ever said these are your grounds?" Raising a brow down at the two while crossing my arms the moment I gained their attention, "If I can remember they belonged to Rize and now she's gone, so this area will be divided among the weak."

"Oh if isn't the brat," Nishiki frowned the moment he saw me and he quickly became defense, "It belonged to me from the start! So stay out of it kid before I teach you some fucking manners."

Landing down, I raised a brow over at the poor soul that was caught and I saw how the blood pooled around it's body, but my attention returned back to him, "I really don't want to waste my time kicking your ass," A smirk crossed my lips as I rested a hand on hip while mentioning the ghoul that gets under his skin more than anything, "Nor do I want to get Phantom to put you in your place either asshole."

"Tck," Snorting back at me, I saw the way he frowned deeply while calling out the organization I'm part, "Don't talk to me like you own the damn place because you're part of Anteiku."

Narrowing my eyes at him when he moved away from the boy so he placed his whole attention on me. A glare came off his glasses the moment he lowered his head slightly before lifting up to see his kakugan staring me down, "I couldn't care less if Phantom came here, go get her you coward."

"You know what," Frowning, I felt my kakugan activate the moment I saw those bright red eyes and I clenched my hands before chuckling to myself, "I remembered she was calling it a day and I really just want to wipe that smug look off your face myself."

Within that moment he had his kagune out and he kept that stupid smug look as if he already won, but it only made me to make him regret ever being so self center, I always hated his stupid attitude Shifting my eyes over to the idiot that brought this to himself, but I returned my attention back to Nishiki the second he pulled an attack. Swiftly moving around him, I refused to summon my Ukaku since I don't want to bring anymore attention then there needs be.

I skid across him and he smirked at how I didn't activate my kagune, Always demanding respect as if he's some kind of prince!

"You really just piss me off," Glaring down at him, I ran forward as I dodged his kagune and I quickly made my move.

All I had to do was make him back off, so all I attend to do is just overwhelmed him enough that he retreats. Narrowing my eyes on him and I began to close the space between us when he decided to pull another attack his kagune, but I sneered at that four eyed asshole.

Quickly, I began to move on my feet as I left clean cuts scattered across whatever I can get my hands on. Smirking, I saw how he couldn't keep up with me and surely he must've forgotten that I have an advantage over him in regards of speed.

That smart ass isn't a big shot if I can take him down without even trying. Watching how he stepped back, shielding himself with his kagune while holding his arms up as I continued to overwhelm him until he finally snapped back. Jumping away from him when he lashed out at me and I saw the frustration and anger in his eyes when they glared over to me.

But he didn't do anything else, instead he retract his kagune before pointing over to me, "This isn't over brat, so watch your back!" His eyes shifted over to the boy that stared in shock over to us and I noticed that the kid didn't move. Returning my attention to Nishiki, "You're lucky, but next time I'll make you two pay!"

Frowning, I watched him walk away from us and disappeared to wherever he crawled out from. Standing there, I clenched my hands before narrowing my eyes and it all became silent when he left. I sighed to myself, calming my nerves while my eyes turned back to normal before I faced the idiot that dragged me into this mess.

"You," Turning on my heels, I pointed over to him while making a point clear, "You better catch up on who 'own' what land!"

"I... I didn't know that there were-"

Waving it off, I honestly didn't want to hear it, "Shut up," Narrowing my eyes at him before I sighed to myself as I wondered over to dead body, "I'm only here because I finally agreed to help you."

Ripping off a piece off the body, I turned over to him while handing out, "Now." Frowning as he remain still, I saw how he glanced between the flesh and to his hand, but I kept a calm temper, "Eat."

"No." My eyes widen at how he suddenly snapped back at me, I frowned at his stupid belief he had as he smacked the flesh out of my hands before he shouted. I watched how he kept his hands close to him while his eyes tried to hold back the tears that were purely made out of frustration as he shouted at me, "No! I can't eat that! I'm still human! I'm not some monster like all you guys!"

I bit the side of my cheek, trying to maintain a calm attitude, but the kid was pushing my buttons and I hissed back, "Watch who you're calling a monster," Narrowing my eyes down at him before I finally snapped back, "I'm trying to fucking help you, so eat god damn it!"

Glaring down at him, I clenched my hands while my mind wondered over to the thought, Would he still believe we're all monsters when he finds out about Yuzuki?

"I said no!" I held myself back from grabbing him by the collar and throwing him aside, so instead I stood still as he continued to shake his head while trying to convince himself that he's still human, "I'm not doing it!"

I was getting fed up with his stupid human attitude as if he's still one and it was only pissing me off at how stupid and naive he was about this whole thing, "You understand you'll go crazy if you don't!"

Only silences came from him which only served one purpose and I threw the flesh away before staring down at him, "Fine," Shrugging, I turned away before I went to clean up the stupid mess that asshole made earlier, "Be like that, but I'll warn you now."

I saw how he stared up at me with a look that was so uncompromising and I clenched my hands before frowning at him, "The greatest pain any ghoul can endure is starving," Shifting my eyes away, but I narrowed them, "It'll drive you to insanity."

Then I felt my whole expression went blank before harshly stating, "You'll be a monster like the rest of us."

"Now get the hell up and go home before I decide to get that jackass back here so he can finish you off!" I yelled at him, watching him get to his feet as he ran off again and I stood there alone with my own thoughts. Glancing over my shoulder, I released a sigh of frustration before I went back to clean the mess.

Yet I found myself wondering about the path that idiot is falling into then I paused for a moment as it passed through my mind, If anything... He'll end up eating his own friend or lash out if he continues like this...

3rd Pov

All he could was reflect, think of what just happened and how he handled the situation. He won't deny that he sure be glad that Touka was around to save him and even went out of her way in trying to help him, but he denied it. Instead of thanking her, he basically called her a monster and it was the moment he took it too far.

Kaneki sat there in silence as he began to wonder how he'll confront Touka after shouting at her. Holding his face, he felt guilt for just lashing out to the person he brought into his troubles and asking for help, but just to be absolutely close minded in how she'll feel after his little scene.

Sighing, frowning at his poor choices, he clearly remembered words that reminded him about Yuzuki. How people should be judged by who there are, not on what they are. His eyes landed on the ground as he realized how obstinate he was and ungrateful for what Anteiku, Touka, the manager, and even his friends has done for him.

"Watch who you're calling a monster"

Shutting his eyes, he could hear those words that Touka sneered down at him and now he understands what she meant. She, along with everyone in Anteiku has their goal set in fitting in with humans and he had the audacity to call her a monster for simply being a ghoul. Then what does it make him then?

Grabbing the phone of the coffee table, Kaneki looked through his notifications to see Hide texted him again asking if he was still alive. A sad smile appeared on the boy's face as he played the voice mail and only to hear the worry behind Hide's voice as he informed him about what he missed at school.

Releasing a heavy breath, he moved on to the other notifications and his eyes noticed that there was another message from Yuzuki which he hasn't opened. Hesitantly, he opened it to see that she was also concern for his well being like Hide.

His eyes skimmed the message as it read, "I feel like we should talk since I've noticed you're closed off more than usual. Whatever is going on, you can always talk to me or Hide, he's worried about you too."

Shutting the phone, he frowned to himself at the thought of confronting either of his friends, but he knew he can't run forever. Sighing, getting up the boy wondered over to his room as he decided to call it a night. Yet he wondered if he can share the same sidewalk with them, if it's possible to live beside them as if nothing was wrong. Shaking his head, Kaneki crawled into bed and tried to push away all the thoughts so he can just sleep in peace.

...I need space...

Kaneki's Pov

It's been a very slow day today in Anteiku or maybe it was me just avoiding Hide and Yuzuki, so instead I just spent the day working and learning some technique from the manager. I still don't know how he can eat food without imminently wanting to gag the moment it touches his mouth, but he reassures me that it's possible to fake it properly. I gave up after the seventh attempt before I asked to do something else instead and he began to teach me how to make coffee.

Honestly, I thought it was going to be an easy task, but it proved to more difficult then it seems. But I managed to get right after a few tries and I was aware that there was a meaning behind it. Then that was it for the day, the manager told me that I'll practice again on 'eating', but I really don't want to go through it again.

I sighed, wiping the cups down while Irimi started to put them away while Touka began to clear up the tables and Koma was busy mopping the floor. It was empty and we were asked to clean up so we can go home once the shop closes, but that won't be for another three hours. At least we had some time to get ahead of our normal route, but me and Touka would go attend to any customer that dropped in.

Most of the time it was a ghost town today which was strange for me to wittiness. My whole attention was focused on cleaning each glass properly so there wasn't any smudges or stains visible before setting them aside so Irimi can put them into their rightful place. It was already dark out when I glanced up to see the window before I returned back to work.

I was so lost in my own duties that I almost missed the faint ring that came from the door which meant we had a customer, but I didn't bother looking since Touka would already be the one to tend to them. Yet my whole body froze as my eyes widen at something that made my heart stop for a moment when I realized something important. I knew that smell, that scent is something that I couldn't forget ever since I was released from the hospital and now it's back.

Which only meant, I didn't want to look up in fear that I'll see one of the people I've been avoiding for the past few days. Swallowing, I took in a deep breath as I set down the cup before sparing a glance and my eye widen at the sight of the girl sitting alone at the table where we usually picked.

I saw how she leaned against her hand while her eyes were fixed at the window, how her eyes hid all her intentions and I couldn't guess what was going through her mind. Then I curled my fingers as I watched from a far and it all began to slowly sink into me. Everything that I was holding back during the quiet days that I pushed them away from me and I realized one of the many reasons why I distant myself from my friends.

It was a constant reminder that I was no longer human and I couldn't face it if I had to walk along side them. Just seeing Yuzuki walk in here without directly coming over to speak to me, she merely sat there as if it was all normal. But I knew she was going through her own mind that was slipping through her body language and surely I must be a train wreck too since I haven't spoken to her or Hide in a while.

Yet I can't deny that she had made herself a soft spot in my heart which I constantly denied Hide's playful teases whenever he had the chance to bring up the topic. I even went out of my way to disprove him by going with Rize and look how it ended up for me.

It was the fear that struck me of ever thinking of having something so intimate with anyone or the possible factor of even dating her just drive me in denial. I didn't deserve such things in this world, especially since I'm no longer human, so what can I do now.

Why did I have to realize it now when I know that so many things could go wrong if I dare pursue such desires now. I won't forgive myself if I were take away anything more from what she has left. How can I bring myself to take away the things that I've already lost.

Lowering my eye, I couldn't help myself from feeling so disturb of having her and all the other humans that walk in here without the slightest clue that they were surrounded by ghouls. But yet she knew very clearly that ghouls were around her and yet no fear ever showed in her voice or actions every time we came here. I felt envy, but in truth I was wrapped in a tight hold of conflict in what I should do or what I should say now.

How can I face her or Hide without being reminded that I've lost everything. She was what I'm not anymore, they had a future while I'm trapped in this phase of nothingness. I wish to walk along side her and everyone else without feeling the fear of hurting someone or feeling the loneness that haunts me so deeply.

Because I can't bear to be alone with my own thoughts...

I jumped a bit when Touka elbowed me while muttering, "Talk to her you idiot, take her order and do your damn job."

Furrowing my brows when Touka walked into the back, Did she just-? She deliberately made me-

Grabbing my notepad and pencil, I was hesitant for a moment while taking a deep breath before heading over to her table. I smiled sheepish, nervously scratching the back of my head as I tried to think of the answers to the questions I know she'll ask me.

"Umm... Hey, what can I get you tonight?" I watched her carefully, my eye trailing how she released a sigh before raising a brow up at me and I took note on how her whole body just relaxed before giving me a smile.

She giggled at me as if I asked a silly question, I furrowed my brows while tilting my head to understand why she laughed, but what she said next made me blush in embarrassment. Yuzuki leaned against her hand before tilting her head slightly, "I thought you'll know by now, Kaneki, since we do come here so offend that you must've noticed by now."

My eye widen, chuckling nervously as I recalled that she usually ordered the same drink all the time when we'll come and it must've been stupid of me to even ask her that question, "Uhh... yeah s-sorry about it. I'll get your order then."

Before I had the chance to turn away, I stopped mid turn when her voice came up again and I curled my fingers up around the objects in my hand, "I want to talk to you about a few things."

I couldn't do anything against it in the position I was in and she surely knew about it, so I only smiled back to her, "I'll bring you your coffee first then we can talk for a bit."

Walking back to the counter, I noticed that Touka finished making a cup of coffee before she raised a brow over to me while handing me the cup. I blinked at her before realizing that she went ahead and made the order for me since she already knew of Yuzuki's usual order, but my eye widen the moment Touka muttered back, "I'll handle whatever customer show up, so go and talk to her, moron."

Without another word, she left me alone with the warm drink in my hands and I glanced over my shoulder to see Yuzuki sitting quietly in her thoughts. I saw how she brought her violin case with her and it's been awhile since I've seen it. Taking in a deep breath, I tried to calm myself before going back to her table.

Setting the cup in front of her, I saw how she sat up and stared up to me and I guess she wanted me to sit down with her. Taking the seat across from her, I nervously kept my fingers curling into my palm and I waited for her to start.

"How's everything?"

Looking up over to her, I watched how she wrapped her hands around the cup and I glanced away before responding, "Fine," Chuckling, I scratched my cheek slightly, "I've been busy with work, but today was slow."

Raising a brow at her, I wonder what's been going on outside my own sorrowful life, "How about you?"

Shrugging back, Yuzuki chuckled under her breath as she leaned against her hand, "I've had better days, but I'm doing well," Sighing, a smile appeared on her face as she turned over to me, "I'm glad to actually see you."

Then her eyes lowered, her fingers curling up at the rim of the cup as she whispered, "Hide was getting really worried..."

I felt it again, I felt the wave of guilt and selfishness washing over me again. I couldn't look at her, too a shame to even say anything to fully explain myself, "I... I should've talked to you guys or something," Looking up at her as I whispered, "Sorry about making you two worry over me. I'm fine."

Yuzuki offered a smile to me, "Just talk to me, Kaneki." I saw how she was reaching out for me and I felt the need to pull away, "I know somethings troubling you, so feel free to talk about it."

Shaking my head, I curled my fingers up, "I... I don't know if I can..." What is there to talk about?

My eye widen the moment I felt a warm touch against my hand, my whole attention darted over to her and I felt my face flush when I heard her voice again, "Do you trust me?" I stared at her and I didn't know what to say as the thoughts crossed my mind, I... I do... But why?

Curling my fingers around her hand, I felt my eye sting as I recalled the last time we were close. It was the time that I was still human and now it only made me feel so strange at the thought of holding her hand.

I didn't even think as the word escaped my mouth, "Yes."

Staring at her, I saw how she squeezed my hand slightly as a sign of support and my heart skipped a beat at her smile. Then I realized what my answer was, Why did I say yes?

"Then know that I won't judge you for anything you say," "Surely Hide would understand too if you gave him the chance."

Lowering my eye, feeling everything trying to eat me away as it nagged me into speaking out, but I can't bring myself to do. Shutting my eye, I could feel her hand shift a bit and I relaxed slightly by her touch.

Say it...

Releasing a deep breath, "Yuzuki, I..."

Say it!

"Yes?"

SAY IT!

Biting the side of my cheek, I didn't want to any until it slipped out, "Are you afraid of ghouls?"

I wondered what her thoughts on ghouls are, she knows about everyone here and she somehow managed to hold her ground against Rize. But I never heard anything from her that I'm aware of and now I need to know.

Yuzuki simply stated, "No" I felt her hand loosen around me the moment my body tensed up at her respond. I don't know if I'm shock or I'm furious or I'm relieve.

My eye widen, staring at her in shock, not believing what I heard her and it all didn't make any sense, but at the same time it all made perfect sense. But in reality I wanted a reason to justify my actions, No... NO!? I need her to say yes, I need a reason to push her away, I need a reason to abandon them all, to run away...

Shaking my head, I don't understand why anyone could say that they're not a afraid of ghouls, "What? How can you not be-" I was pleading to hear some explanation for her answer or to understand why she said no, How could she say no... why?

"I'm not afraid of the people that fear us themselves," Moving away from me, I felt her warmth leaving me as she began to explain herself, "Ghouls fear humans just as much as humans fear ghouls. Yet there are ghouls who hold no remorse or humanity within them from killing out of cold blood."

Then this is the moment I saw how her tone became stoic, how her body language suddenly shifted at each word that left her mouth. There was something hidden within her voice that held a spark of passion that I can't properly explain.

It made me wonder what could've happened to her, Why does she... I never seen her so torn... So angry

"Ghouls don't frighten me," Taking a sip out of her coffee, Yuzuki held the cup between her hands as she continued, "But I won't deny that there are some that I'm scared to cross paths and it's only if they're powerful beyond the average ghoul."

I never knew your views on ghouls, but... But why are you so different...

"I've seen my fair share of terrifying things that most ghouls can't compare to," A sad smile appeared across her lips as her she turned away again which only made want to reach over for her while the thoughts stormed through my head, What have you seen? What's your story?

Sighing, I saw her faded eyes shift over to me, "Are you afraid?"

I was taken back, in truth I can't deny that I surely was more than afraid, I'm afraid... I'm afraid of myself...

"Yes," I furrowed my brows at her, shaking my head while stating a clear fact, "Who wouldn't? They're stronger than us and we can't do anything about it."

I stared at her, I felt that myself feeling so overwhelmed with each possible outcome that could happen if I do something. If I end up like Rize or even the other ghoul that I ran into recently. I don't want to lose myself into this new feeling, the new urge that I'm trying to fight off.

If I lose control... Will I hurt you? Will hurt Hide?

She chuckled at me, the corner of her lips twitched a bit before leaning a bit forward, "Isn't that the reason why CCG is around?"

...CCG...?

Scratching my head, I looked away a bit, "Yeah... I almost forgot about them..."

"You must have heard from Hide that I work with my father, filing and doing paper work," Picking her cup up again and she brought up a different topic, "He's not wrong and surely I wasn't being fairly honest with him either."

Furrowing my brows, I tilted my head at her, What does she mean?

Her fingers skimmed across the instrument case that rested beside her, "You wonder why I never answer my phone or why I keep my violin case with my dear life at times?"

I don't understand where this is heading, Where is she going?

"I haven't been fairly honest with you either," Yuzuki chuckled dryly under her breath, shaking her head before looking over to me, "But we all have our secrets and I really want to tell you something important that I believe you should know Kaneki."

Why? Why is she telling me now? Why me?

"I'm not your average girl, not normal," I watched at how her whole expression dropped, the way she looked away as if she was a shame of whatever was holding her back.

Not... normal?

Closing her eyes, she released a heavy sigh before revealing her secret, "I'm part of CCG."

My eyes widen, I curled my fingers up and I couldn't look away from her as she rephrased it again, "I'm first class investigator of CCG," I couldn't believe it, how could she be part of them, but all I know is that they're the ones hunting ghouls and that's it. Yet I saw the look that managed to shed through her eyes, I realized that she wasn't happy and she shook her head before continuing, "All those times I leave and don't answer, well, I'm busy working."

I felt myself moving away, trying to see the realization of what all this meant and how it'll effect everything. Then my eye widen the moment I remembered that fateful day and I couldn't look at her that same, That explains why she fought Rize. Why she warned me to stay away.

"What Hide told you isn't all a complete lie because it's true," Yuzuki set aside the empty cup while clearing a few things, "I hardly ever go on the field these days, so I'm behind doing paper work."

I began to noticed a few things before and now it's all coming together, Why she never mentions names...

"It's the very reason why I didn't hesitated to fight Rize to save you, the reason why I never leave my violin case out of my sight when I do have it," Her eyes lowered, her fingers curling up while every single thing was out in the open, "Why I'm not afraid of ghouls because in truth they're afraid of us as well."

I couldn't believe it and it only left me with so much questions, Then why hasn't she done anything to Anteiku?

"You... You're an Investigator?" I still couldn't believe it even after saying those words myself, but it only made me what to know more behind it, "For how long?"

Will I be an enemy to you?

"Went to Academy but never finished it due to some issues, but I was allowed on field at the age of 13," Frowning to herself and her fingers curled up then my eyes widen at how her life was always far different from mine, "Been exposed to the life style when I was six."

All in truth, I was surprised beyond than what I expected to ever hear from her. Yet it reveals a whole new untouched book that holds her history and experience in a unsettling life far more difficult then I can imagine.

Then it begs the question, if she works with her father then it only means one thing, "Then your father he's..." Furrowing my brows slightly as everything started to get pieced together and I looked back at her, She works with her father so of course he's part of CCG as well

Yuzuki sighed, keeping her head a bit low as she whispered, "He's an Investigator as well along with my brother and uncle."

My breath was caught in my throat to know that everyone she's connected to were part of the same foundation and it makes everything about her even more complicated. All her ties are on different ends of the spectrum then there was me and Hide, where we lay in the middle ground.

Looking down at the table as the thoughts rushed through my mind, I'm no longer on the same ground as Hide, I'm at the ghoul end of this whole chain and I took in a steady breath while reminding myself about the detail surrounding her, Her whole family are Investigators...

I hesitated for a moment until I could look back up at her and I finally had the courage to ask the question, "If you're first class then what is your father's rank?" I'm not fully sure on how the ranks are with CCG, but surely first class must be up there somewhere so it begs the question in regards of her father.

Curling my fingers, I took the empty cup away from her so I can at least hold something or distract myself for a bit when I finally realized the risks, If I were to hurt her then surely her father will kill me without a doubt

"Special Class," Her lips were pressed in a thin line, eyes narrowed as she turned over to the window, "My brother and uncle are the same rank as me."

Holding the cup tightly in my hands, my whole body stilled, If I dare hurt her or even get her in any serious harm then without a doubt he or the others will come after me.

It was all too real and so overwhelming that I can't possibly get myself from thinking more about this, Or even worse I can put Anteiku in a dangerous position if I slip and I can't bring myself to be responsible for what happens to them when they offered to help me...

A hand ran through my hair as I tried to taking in everything, but I stopped the moment I realized I might the reason that everything could go south, Hide... I can bring trouble to him too...

Yuzuki moved further away, leaning against her chair as her expression dropped, "But don't think of me as a someone who slaughters any ghoul on sight," I saw the look in her eyes and I saw something that escape the void that only revealed how much it troubles her, "I can't bare doing such ruthless acts of stealing away people from this world."

Why? Then why are you with them?

"I've dreamt of a day were we can live along each other," Resting her hands on top of her lap as she reassured one thing, "No matter of what we are..."

She wouldn't hurt me... This is the reason why she didn't do anything to Anteiku...

Yet it's far too good to ever hear anyone defend ghouls, she can't possible deny and forget the stories that they caused. I shook my head as my hand clenched at the words that left my mouth, "There's dangerous ghouls out that hurt people and you can't just say-"

But it's so foolish to ever think such things

She sighed at my response, cutting my sentence short, "I'm aware of them. Those who are far gone the path no return, the ones who are far too dangerous for anyone then I'll allow myself to be stained by their blood," Resting a hand on the table, she looked down at her hands, "I hardly ever end their lives with my own hands since I'll usually leave it to someone else, but at cases I have no other choice..."

I can't... I can't tell her

Then this was the moment the whole table turned, this was the moment I ever considered the thought of ghouls and humans sharing the same land. If it wasn't for her then I wouldn't have wondered the hardships and the false rules placed upon us, but I can't shake the fear off my shoulders.

Yuzuki turned her whole attention on me, she even started to question my own thoughts about the topic, "Yet you can't deny that there are ghouls who simply wish to live like us," Her eyes shifted over to the others in Anteiku and it hit me, she clearly understood the goal that they're trying to achieve, "How they dream and yearn to walk along side us without the fear of being judged and killed for being what they are. Have you ever thought of the children that suffer, the families that get torn apart, and how many lose their ways."

Maybe I'm foolish for not understanding her

"If you think about it," Lifting a finger up, she leaned forward while bringing up another point, "Humans have it lucky, they could do things that ghouls are so restricted from doing themselves."

I sat there in silence and I realized how I could I have ever came across someone like her. This was all different then anyone ever spoke about ghouls or the whole topic around it She brought out a different layer of gray that I never in my whole life could've discovered. But at this moment, I felt so confuse and unsure because I'm not human even if I try to maintain it. Yet I'm not exactly a ghoul and my views are shifting without me actually knowing what's going on.

I wonder what my life would be without meeting someone who views the world around us at angle that most run from. Was it meant for me to run into her that rainy day so she could share this with me.

Why did fate bring us together?

"But you also must know that we also are on the receiving end of suffering with every painful moment that we lose someone else in this ruthless war that wedges us from each other," Her lips twitched, fingers glazed over the table as she pulled away and her voice held a forgotten story behind it, "I've seen people that I work along with lose close loved ones to them and how they're fueled by anger."

The reason her eyes hardly show emotions is because she seen it before...

"In truth, I can't..." Shutting her eyes, I could sense the burden that weighs over her shoulders as she clenched her hand, "I don't believe it's right."

"Kaneki, do realize the reasoning behind why I kept it away from you and Hide," She sighed, shaking her head as she began to hold the blame as if it was all her fault,"I couldn't bare having you two think so poorly of me for being part of CCG. Nor do I want to leave you two with the thoughts of me never returning because I died out there."

Always thinking about me and Hide... Always trying to keeps us from harm... Why?

My eyes widen, clearly remembering how she told Touka to watch us when she's gone, She asked her to watch us because she knew the dangers out here...

"I... I was caution to think that the only normal friends I've ever made will soon reject me if they knew my involvement with CCG and how I put myself out there," She smiled at me, her whole facial expression soften, "I value you and Hide's view on me."

Normal? All she wants was acceptance...

I chuckled nervously, taking in everything and I finally spoke up after being so quiet. I reached a hand over to hers and I shook my head in disbelief, "I... I wouldn't have thought you'll be someone to fight and..." Looking down at our hands, I felt myself become so fluster as it all continued to sink in, "I just can't picture it, but its starting to make sense."

How could she live such life and smile, laugh, and be so alive...?

"Yuzuki, I..." Swallowing, I curled my fingers over her hand as I whispered under my breath, "I... I really don't want you getting hurt."

I wouldn't forgive myself if I could ever hurt you? Of if she never comes back...

"Kaneki, I don't want you to fear that I'll do anything to harm you," Then she laughed, smiling at me as if my constant worrying shouldn't exist and I watched how she placed her other hand over ours, "I'm not one to easily get hurt out there especially always having someone watching my back."

You won't hurt me, but being here and telling me... You're so cruel and I'm in no place to deserve this kindness from anyone

"You don't understand, I can't-" Shutting my eyes, I lowered my head as I muttered back to her, I can't hurt the people close to me

Her hand was warm and gentle as she reassured me that nothing will happen, "Ken... You can tell me anything," I couldn't face her and I heard her voice to sooth my nerves a bit, but it didn't make all of my troubles disappear, "I won't hurt you if that's what you're afraid of. That's the last thing I ever want to do because you mean a lot to me..."

You mean a lot to me even if I won't say it...

"I'm afraid... I can't-" Lifting my vision, I saw the way she looked at me in concern, I'm afraid of hurting you... I'm afraid to even touch you... Afraid of hurting anyone...

"I'll accept you no matter what, but I understand if you're not ready to say it out loud."

Do you truly believe that? Will you accept what I've become? Will you accept the person I've become?

"Yuzuki, you don't understand how much I just want to..." Sighing, I felt so conflicted as I tried to explain how I feel and what's going through my head, but all I can do was speak unfinished words, "How much I..." How much I want to tell you that I'm not human...

To tell you that I really care and I can't taint you...

Everything I tried to say never completely leaves my lips, "I care about you and I'm not-" What am I saying?

"Hey! We're going to close soon, so help us close up the shop soon!" Touka shouted over to me and I felt my face flush at her comment, but I didn't say anything back to her, "You can finish your date later."

Yuzuki moved away, giggling at the girl's comment before motioning me to go, "Go ahead, it's your job anyways."

Collecting the empty cup, I shuttered as I offered to walk her home before I went over to Touka, "I-I... I'll walk you home, so give me some time to close up."

Furrowing her brows, she shook her head as she tried to decline my offer, "You don't have to-"

Shaking my head, I smiled at her before I went off to help the others, "No, I really want to make sure you get home safe."

Cleaning the cup while Touka went over to Yuzuki as the two spoke briefly, but I was too busy helping clean down the counter after handing the cup over to Irimi. Glancing back to the pair, I noticed how Touka began to set chairs up and Yuzuki helped the ghoul as the two shared a few words between each other.

Irimi sighed once she was done and smiled faintly at me before she wondered off to the back of the shop and Koma gave me pat on the shoulder before heading to the back as well. I stared at the two full time employees as they went to speak with the manager most likely.

Glancing back to the others that remain in the front, I saw that Touka removed the apron from herself while raising a brow at the girl as she commented on something that made the waitress chuckle under her breath. In truth, if I didn't know that Touka was a ghoul and Yuzuki was a Investigator then I would only think of the pair as friends, but their relationship is far from normal. It's just complicated once their roles in society are exposed.

Removing the apron around my waist when the two came over to the counter and Touka waved me off, "See you next time, idiot."

Chuckling, I scratched my head while folding the apron, "Goodnight, Touka."

Yuzuki carried her violin case in her hands behind her, waiting for me, but I noticed how she raised a brow at me, "Aren't you going to change out of your uniform?" Chuckling, she sat down at the stool while setting the case beside her, "I'll wait for you here."

Nodding, I smiled over to her before heading down the hall, "I'll be back."

3rd Pov

Emerging from the hall, Kaneki adjusted his eye patch a bit before jugging on his jacket and he saw that Yuzuki was standing over at the door. The girl was in her own thoughts, waiting for the boy to return and she held the violin case in both her hands. Before he could say anything, the manager walked up beside him, "I hope you two get home safely."

Yuzuki turned over to them and she smiled at the old ghoul, "Don't worry for that, Yoshimura, we'll be fine."

The manager turned over to Kaneki, "I'll see you on your next shift, Kaneki. Hope you can enjoy the break."

"Thank you," Kaneki nodded at his new boss before meeting up with Yuzuki while the manager bid them farewell before returning back to the break room where the other employees were currently in.

Chuckling, the boy shifted on his feet before facing the girl, "You ready?"

Raising a brow, she smirked back at the boy before pointing over to him as she repeated the question, "Are you?"

Opening the door, he smiled at her while stating the obvious, "I asked you first." Laughing, he followed behind her while the thought crossed his mind which only made him chuckle, She's such a tease...

Yuzuki shrugged her shoulders the dove turned over to him as the two began to walk down the sidewalk, "Doesn't mean you can't answer my question."

Kaneki stared at her, watching how she'll keep her face ahead of her so she wouldn't run into anything. The way she held her violin case securely within her hands, keeping in front of her and the boy wondered what's so important about it while his mind drifted back to their conservation, Even after knowing you're a Investigator... You still haven't changed in my eyes...

"Yes," Holding out his arm to her, he remembered the last time they did this and Kaneki smiled that the memory, "Yes, I'm ready." Turning his attention to the sky above them while thinking, Your heart has always been in the right place

"So am I," The dove accepted his arm, linking their arms together as they continued to walk out in the night. The streets were quiet as the city lights provided enough for Kaneki to see, but the boy then remembered something that he wished to forget.

It almost reminds him of how he walked Rize home, how that simple decision made his life flip upside down. How a simple date could turn him into a ghoul. Yet here he is walking Yuzuki home, a decision he made yet again, but this time what could go wrong. He's already a ghoul and he walking along side an Investigator who should kill him, but she won't act according to the rules.

Glancing over to her, Kaneki smiled to himself, Why do you have to be so... so different?

"Yuzuki?" Sighing, he looked away as he tried to say what he couldn't before, Why do you make me feel so conflicted?

"Yeah?"

"I... Thank you," Smiling back at the girl while scratching the back of his head before finally looking down at her, "Thank you for sharing with me. I wouldn't be able to do the same if I were in your shoes and thank you for trusting me with it."

Yuzuki stared up at him, there wasn't anything that could explain how her shoulders feel lighter by revealing one part, but yet it only meant that he might not be ready for the second thing about her. Still she managed to smile at him, "Thank you for understanding."

Curling up his fingers, Kaneki doesn't believe things surrounding the girl and how things between the two are far complicated then every. Yet the boy couldn't bring himself from everyone forever, I don't believe it either, but I can't pull myself away from her

No matter how much they avoid each other, they'll always run into each other just like that rainy day, but if one's missing then something always comes up involving the other. Kaneki glanced back at her, We always end up running into each other Smiling, he found himself saying something unconsciously, "I missed you."

His faced redden when he heard those words escape him, looking away as he lowered his eye, In truth, I really missed your smile

"Then you should let us see you more then," Yuzuki frowned to herself, sighing, she looked over to him as she reminded him of what his absents has done, "Talk to Hide tomorrow, he's worried sick over you."

Guilt is something he felt every time his eyes landed on a text message from him, every time he listened to the voice mails that his friend left for him, and all the time he never answered back. Kaneki looked away, his thoughts wondered back to the times he spent with childhood friend and it made him smile, I missed Hide's laughter... Even the moments he scold me... I miss being human...

"We missed you too, so please don't run away from us," Yuzuki released a deep breath, her hand tighten around the handle of her case, "I... I don't want you to lock yourself away with your own troubles. If anything just talk to us. Talk to him at least."

Can I promise such a thing?

"I promise not to do it again," Sighing to himself, Kaneki frowned to himself at his selfish acts and he looked over, "I really just needed to clear my head and I think I'm fine now..."

"You just talk to us," Her smiled faded and she whispered back, "I missed seeing you around..."

"Me too."

A/N: Thank you for those who viewed and followed/favorited it along with your reviews. I really appreciated it! I'll update probably some point next week depending how long it takes to have Chap 12 done. Next chap things will take a turn once again, unraveling a few more things, meeting new faces that should've been avoided, and many other things that will influence choices among characters.

Until then, hope you have a good day wherever you are :)