Our Changing Hearts

Yosuke was still getting used to life after the murders. The first time he woke up after Adachi was arrested felt like a dream. It felt like he was about to wake up. He was ready to get a text from his friends asking when they'd meet up today to talk about the case.

But no message ever came. He even called Chie that morning, just so he could confirm it. They won. They beat Adachi. They saved the town, and avenged Saki-senpai.

Yosuke made the conscious decision to visit Sake's grave that day. He wanted to tell her what had happened. He told her about how they found the man who murdered her, and about how he and his friends stopped him and saved the town, maybe even the world.

Then he told Saki something that he'd been wanting to say for a while.

"You'll always mean a lot to me, senpai, but… I think I'm ready to move on."

Yosuke's father once told him, 'You never forget your first love,' and honestly Yosuke couldn't agree more with his father. The young man would forever remember Saki Konishi. She had been his friend, even if she didn't see him the same way. He had fallen for her, like any young boy does around a pretty girl. Those feelings didn't go away when she died. They just hurt more.

He told himself he would be ready to move on once Saki's killer was behind bars. He had every intent on making good on that promise.

"Hey. Yosuke? Earth to Yosuke?" A finger gently tapped against Yosuke's forehead, and his eyes widened. He stared at Yu Narukami, who return the gaze with an arched brow. "You okay? You've just been staring into the distance for a while."

Yosuke and Yu were walking to the shrines to ring in the new year with all of their friends. Kanji and Teddie were on their way to meet the two, with the girls travelling in their own pack. The cold, winter air hit the two boys as they walked.

"Oh. Yeah. I'm alright. Just thinking." Yosuke shook his head, quietly sighing.

"Anything you want to talk about?"

Yosuke looked at Yu, and the concerned stare in the silverette's eyes reminded Yosuke that he wasn't the only one moving on with their life. Yu Narukami… Yosuke used to think the guy was his best friend, and partner. Then Yosuke thought Yu was just an asshole.

Turns out, both were kind of true. Yu was nothing like the man Yosuke met on the way to school. Yu was arrogant, even more perverted than Teddie, plus he was kind of an ass. Yosuke didn't hold it again him, though. The brunette had his own assholeish moments.

Still, ass or not, Yu was actually a pretty good friend.

"It's just…" He didn't answer, sighing. "It's the first new year without Saki. I walked by her house, and I even talked to her brother. Just to try and check up on him..."

"Naoki? He's a nice kid. How was he?"

Yosuke's eyes widened, and he looked at Yu. "You know him?"

"We've talked. I've been helping him come to terms with his sister's death and everyone's pity for a while."

Yosuke shouldn't have been surprised. He'd heard it all throughout the school, even in Junes. Yu had been slowly making it a habit of helping everyone in town deal with their problems. From helping find lost cats, to even just sitting down and talking to people about their problems. It was a stark difference than the man he attacked in Junes one night.

"From what I've heard, it sounds like you've been trying to help a lot of people."

Yu just shrugged his shoulders. He tried to smile, but it quickly twisted into a grimace. "Just trying to put as much good as I did bad in the world."

The brunette nodded his head, a solemn frown on his face. The night the Investigation Team tried and failed to save Nanako felt so long ago, yet the memories were clear. Yosuke could still remember Yu screaming at him, goading him to attack.

"You okay, man?" the brunette asked.

"Yeah. Just…" Yu didn't finish the sentence. He just sighed, glancing at the ground. Yosuke lifted up a hand and gently placed it on the silver-haired teen's shoulder.

"It's okay, dude. I get it."

Yosuke still remembered his Shadow. He still felt a pang of guilt every time he remembered his own selfish actions. It was true, a part of him only went into the other world for fame and glory, not justice. That was almost a year ago, yet it still haunted his mind. He could only imagine how fresh Yu's scars were.

Yu's bond with Yosuke had certainly changed over the months. Yu remembered when he saw the brunette as nothing more than a stepping stone. Yosuke was little more than a tool. Something he could manipulate to further his goals.

Now? Now the guy felt like a brother to the silverette.

Oh, how things change.

"So, any plans for the night?" Yu asked, hoping to brighten the mood and remove the melancholy atmosphere.

"Not really. You?"

"Hm. Maybe steal a kiss from Naoto." The silver-eyed teen might have to pretend he wasn't in a relationship with Naoto, but that didn't mean he couldn't have fun.

"You know she carries a gun, right?"

"Fear and desire are two sides of the same coin," Yu replied with a smirk. Yosuke rolled his eyes, a good-natured smile on his face as a pair of voices called out to them.

"Yo, Senpai!"

"Yo, Yu!"

Yu and Yosuke lifted up their hands to wave at their friends. Kanji and Teddie ran towards the two boys, grinning. Both blondes were dressed warmly for the night.

"Hey."

"What's up, guys?"

"Sorry for keeping you guys waiting," Kanji apologized.

"It was all Kanji's fault," Teddie explained.

"What?! You backstabbing bear, I was helping you out!" Teddie whistled a tune, ignoring the furious blond as Yu chuckled.

"I'm sure."

"Hey, Yu-kun!" Teddie looked around, his brow wrinkling in confusion. "Where's Nana-chan and her dad?"

"They're not well enough to leave the hospital, unfortunately. I visited them this morning and they both wish us well," Yu explained.

"Oh…" Teddie pouted for a moment, before blinking. "Well, where's everyone else? Shouldn't the girls be here by now? It's not just gonna be us guys, right?!"

"I'm sure they're on their way," Yu assured, calmly.

"Maybe they're stopping at Yukiko-senpai's house first? You know, to put on their kimonos?"

"Kimonos?!" Teddie gasped. "Yu, did you hear that!? Kimonos!"

"Calm down, Teddie." The older boy rolled his eyes, only to frown as Teddie jumped in front of him.

"What?! Yu, how can you not be excited for kimononation?!"

"I'm more of a summer attire kind of guy. You know, short skirts, bikinis." Yu had a lecherous grin on his face, and Teddie's disappointed frown turned into a wide grin.

"Oooh! Do you think they'll come in that?!"

"Pretty sure none of the girls are going to come here in bikinis," Yosuke commented. "It's freezing."

"Don't ruin our dreams, Yosuke!"

"What's Yosuke ruining?" Chie wondered. While the four boys had been wrapped in their conversation, the girls had snuck up on them. Each of them were dressed in warm jackets and coats, and decidedly not in kimonos or bikinis.

In an instant, Yu's eyes zeroed in on Naoto, and he smiled at the beautiful girl. His heart was taken away with just a glance as he stared at the woman. She was so cute wrapped up in her blue coat. It almost looked too big on her. He loved it.

"Huh?! Why aren't any of you in kimonos?!" Teddie cried. "Not even in bikinis…"

"Why would we be in kimonos? We're not going to be out long enough to bother with putting one on," Chie answer.

"And what's this about bikinis?" Yukiko frowned, glancing at the smirking Yu. He winked at her, and she rolled her eyes with a knowing smile.

"See? That's what I thought," Yosuke nodded.

"A girl has to save her best outfits for the moments that matter the most," Rise explained. "The only reason it took us so long is because we had to buy heating pads."

"Kimonos are a girl's best outfit? Hey, did you just imply that we're not in your league?"

"She wasn't implying," Yukiko corrected, earning a laugh from Yu.

"Nice one, Yukiko," he complimented, winking at her. The young woman blushed at the compliment, avoiding his gaze as he smirked.

"Ahem." Naoto caught everyone's attention. "Shouldn't we be more mindful of the time? If we don't hurry, we'll have to do the countdown here at the entrance."

"Oh, shoot! We're gonna miss the two-year shrine visit!" Yosuke realized. "Come on!"

The group began to move, and Yu noticed how the two groups practically melted together. Chie was walking by Yosuke, Rise by Kanji, but when Yu tried to approach Naoto, she quickened her pace and walked by Teddie's side. Her navy eyes glanced at his, a faint blush on her cheeks as she tore her eyes away from him.

"Hm." Yukiko approached Yu, and together the two lagged behind, walking a few feet behind their friends.

"Is everything okay?" she whispered.

"Yeah. Just tired," he lied. He didn't look at Yukiko, worried that she'd easily see through him.

"You know this is the the second time I've celebrated the holiday with friends," Yukiko admitted. "I would always just spend it at the inn with my family until last year. Last year it was just me with Chie, which was nice, but..."

"It looks like both of our social circles have grown," Yu observed. He looked at Yukiko, and they smiled at one another. He decided to return the favor and admit something about himself. "I never really had anyone to celebrate the new year with. I mean, my family was always too busy, and besides a date I had with some guy back in some town, I never really-"

"W-what?" Yukiko gasped, she quickly looked at their group of friends, thankful none of them heard her over the sound of the crowd surrounding them.

"What?" Yu repeated, only to blink. "Oh, wait, the guy part? Yeah, I've dated plenty of guys before."

"R-really? Wait, did you not know about Naoto's gender before you…?"

"I thought she was a guy when I fell for her." Yu shrugged his shoulders. "Thought he was just a really cute boy." Yukiko's cheeks flared up, and Yu couldn't resist poking the bear a bit. "You okay? Fantasizing about me and a boy version of Naoto?"

"N-no!" Yukiko frowned. Yu chuckled at her blush, waving his hand in the air.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Just too easy."

Yukiko just pouted for a moment, before her dark eyes glanced at the Detective Prince. "Have you told her about your feelings yet?" Yu didn't reply, and that was answer enough. "Yu-kun, why not?! The case is solved. You need to tell her your feelings."

And I have! He thought, but he promised Naoto he wouldn't reveal their relationship to anyone. He scratched the back of his head as Yukiko pouted.

"Maybe I should tell her for you. It's not like she'd reject you." Yukiko sighed, crossing her arms as they walked. "If you love her, you should tell her. I know she feels the same way about you."

Despite the ironic drama of the situation, Yu found himself smiling. He remembered when he and Yukiko weren't on the best terms. They could barely even hold a conversation with each other on Halloween night, now look at them! She was actually pushing him to confess his true feelings to Naoto.

"Hey, Yukiko?"

"Huh?"

"Thanks. You're a good friend," he confessed, and he meant every word. She blushed as he smirked. "I'll tell her soon, I promise."

"You better," Yukiko pouted. "You don't have much longer here in Inaba. You're going to have to leave soon, and…" The harsh reality of the situation made her frown grow. Her shoulders fell as her pace slowed. "Naoto won't be the only one that misses you."

Yu's own smile vanished. He hated thinking about it, but she was right. He didn't have much time left in the small town. He'd have to leave eventually. Yu reached his hand out to Yukiko's, and his fingers wrapped around hers.

"Hey. I'm here now. Let's make the most of it." He pulled her along, forcing her pace to match his as they followed after the group. "Maybe for the new year, you can try to be a better cook."

"W-what?! What's wrong with the way I cook?!" The young woman's lit up with indignation, and Yu smiled.

"Um, other than it nearly killed me last time I had it? Tell you what, we can sit down and work on it together." Yu chuckled, and despite the slight insult, Yukiko admitted defeat and grinned.

"Really? That sounds wonderful!"

The group soon found a place to stand, and welcome the new year. They stood in a small circle, side by side with each other as they waited in the cold. Yu shivered a bit as he stood between Yosuke and Rise.

"Standing still makes me so cold," the idol shivered.

"Here." Kanji took his jacket off and handed it to the young woman. "Take it."

"Huh? But what about you?"

"I'll be fine. I'm t-t-tough," Kanji replied, shaking slightly.

"Kanji! Put your jacket back on!"

"No! You put it on!"

"Kanji!"

"Rise!"

"There those two go," Yosuke sighed.

"Hey, how much longer until next year?" Teddie wondered.

"It's almost time," Naoto answered, holding up her wrist so the others could see her watch. The seconds were quickly ticking down to the new year, and Chie beamed.

"Alright, ready?! Five!"

"Four!" Yukiko and Yosuke shouted together.

"Three!" Kanji quickly added with Rise.

"Two!" Naoto and Teddie both looked at Yu, who held up a single finger.

"One!" The silverette and Naoto locked eyes. He saw a spark of something in those navy pools. Something radiant, and bright, and utterly perfect. She smiled at him as she, and all their other friends, raised their hands to the sky.

"Happy New Years!"

"I'm happy we're here together!"

"Let's make this year awesome!"

"Let's make this one the best year ever!"

Yu grinned at all of his friends, silently watching everyone laugh and cheer. He didn't say anything. He just wanted to take this moment in. Savor it in his memories forever. He blinked as he felt something cold touch his head, and he looked up to see specks of snow and ice gently fall to the ground on the group.

"Guys, look."

"Huh? It's snowing!" Chie beamed.

"Told you guys it was cold," Rise commented, Kanji's jacket hanging on her shoulder.

"This is what you call a White New Years, right?" the tall blond inquired.

"No one calls it that," Yosuke sighed, but Yu quickly defended his friend.

"Then we'll be the first! To our first White New Years, together!" Yu grinned, and he and Kanji's fists bumped against one another.

"Yeah! Knew I wouldn't be the only one." The blond's grinning face was blocked as his jacket was tossed onto his head. "Huh?"

"Kanji! Buy me something warm to eat! Come on, come on!" The famed idol took Kanji's arm in hers and pulled, dragging him with her. He struggled to free his arm and not fall over, but he didn't utter a single argument. He just ran with her, off into the crowd around the group.

"There those two go," Yu chuckled.

"Something to eat sounds nice," Yukiko agreed.

"Yay! Food! Food! Food!" Teddie skipped over to Yukiko, a beaming smile on his face. "Come on, Yuki-chan! Yosuke gave me some money! I'll buy you something to eat!"

The two began to walk off together as Yu glanced at Naoto. He smiled at her as her cheeks flushed. "Naoto, you mind if we talk? I need your opinion on something."

"Oh, o-of course. P-pardon us, Yosuke-senpai. Chie-senpai." The navy-haired sleuth walked by Yu's side, while the silverette glanced at the two brunettes.

He caught them staring at each other, before quickly looking away. They were both blushing, and Yu couldn't hide his amused smirk. He wasn't an idiot. In fact, he was easily the second smartest person on the team. He had a particular gift in reading people, and he could easily read that Yosuke and Chie had each other on their mind.

Hopefully a little alone time would help them work things out.

"What did you need my opinion on, Narukami?" Naoto questioned.

Yu turned his gaze to her, and after a moment of ensuring they were alone, he leaned down to kiss her cheek. "How good of a kisser am I? Great? Amazing? Perfect?" She blushed once more, and he reveled in the sight.

"Arrogant louse..."

"Sorry. I just wanted some alone time with you. I missed you."

"You saw me yesterday."

"When you're in love, a minute feels like eternity. You have my heart, sweet Naoto, and how can I survive this agony of being without you?" He dramatically raised a hand to his head, feigning pain as she blushed.

"Ever the dramatic."

"Eh. I'm a good actor," he replied. "What can I say? I'm good at everything I… I…" Yu came to a stop as Naoto's hand found his, and her fingers wrapped between his. His own cheeks turned a bright red as he opened and closed his mouth. "Oh… Uh. I…"

"I-is this okay?" she quietly asked.

"Very," he whispered, squeezing her hand in his. "I love you."

"I love you too," she mumbled, a small smile on her sweet lips.

The two stood there together for a long moment. The festival was beautiful, and the snow only enhanced the beauty. Life flowed around them like the crowd of people. Yu felt a sense of weightlessness and lost that he only ever experienced around Naoto. He felt like time didn't matter anymore. He felt like it didn't even pass.

He just felt happy, content, and a little spontaneous.

"Heh." Yu suddenly pulled Naoto closer, and the sleuth gasped as her hat fell from her head. She was being spun. The whole world was spinning around her as she fell into Yu's arms, and his silver eyes sparkled before her. "Naoto."

"W-what…?" He had her hat in his free hand. He gently placed it on his head as he leaned down to peck her forehead.

"I love you with all of my heart."

Naoto felt her breath being stolen away. She felt her heartbeat drum faster and faster as she stared up at Yu. She loved being in his arms. She loved the feel of his breath on her skin, and his lips against her flesh. She loved him, and all she wanted was to stay there forever.

But her mind told her heart, 'No!' Naoto could see people passing by them from the corners of her eyes. They were still in a crowd, still in plain sight. She suddenly pushed against Yu, pulling away from him and standing on her own two feet.

"Narukami, stop. Someone might see," she muttered. She turned her head away from him, staring into the crowd as she avoided his eyes.

"Oh. Sorry."

"You have to be more cautious. We don't know who might see."

"Right." Her hat gently fell back on her head, and he smiled at her. "I'm sorry." And he meant it, because he wouldn't lie to her. Naoto fixed her hat, adjusting it slightly as she looked at her boyfriend. She felt a pang of guilt. He wasn't frowning, but there was a dimness to his eyes. It was gone in a moment as he smiled at her.

He was trying to ignore whatever was bothering him. For his sake, Naoto did not comment on it. "I'm sorry. I'm just not ready for such public displays of affection." Naoto sighed, and Yu waved his hand, dismissively.

"Don't worry about it. Come on, let's get something to eat."

"Yes. That sounds nice," she agreed. They began to walk together again, their hands inches apart.

Neither said anything as they looked for somewhere to eat. Eventually the couple found a small stand and bought some festival food for themselves. After that, they continued to walk, taking in the sights and sounds of the festival. Narukami would bounce slightly to the music playing, and she would laugh with him. They shared their food, and Narukami made a joke about indirect kisses. She simply rolled her eyes, and enjoyed the sound of his laughter.

Then her boyfriend noticed something she did not. He came to a stop and leaned his head back, staring into the trees.

"Narukami? Is something wrong?"

He held a finger to his lips, silently asking her to be quiet. He motioned her to follow, and Naoto obeyed. Several thoughts raced through her mind as she followed behind the older man. Her hand reached towards her holster, ready to pull out her revolver. They were approaching a portion of thick bushes and trees, and he motioned to something in the dark.

Is it a Shadow? Perhaps even Adachi? Should we try to contact the others?

"Ah… Kanji!"

Naoto's eyes widened, and when she saw her two friends, her jaw dropped as her face became a bright pink. Kanji and Rise were hidden in the trees and bushes, locked in each others' arms. The young man was pinned against a tree, Rise's lips dancing on his skin, assaulting him with kisses.

Rise had her arms around Kanji's neck, and she lifted herself up to press her lips against his. The two were kissing, passionately so. Kanji's hands were on Rise's back, stroking her skin as they slipped under her jacket to feel her naked skin. His articulate hands moved up and down as Rise's tongue slipped out to lick his lips.

"Rise…"

"I knew it," Narukami whispered triumphantly.

Naoto couldn't say anything, too shocked by what she was witnessing. Is this what she and Yu looked like when they kissed? She felt a fire in her cheeks as she struggled to speak. Narukami just smiled beside her.

"Man, Rise knows what she's doing. Hey, where is Kanji putting those hands?" He frowned. Naoto noticed it as well. Kanji's hands were on Rise's behind, helping lift her up to better kiss his lips. Naoto quickly grabbed his hand, and pulled on him. "Huh?"

"C-g-wuh…" She pulled on him again, tugging him away from the couple. "N-Narukami...!"

"What?" He smiled at her, clearly unaffected by what they had seen. "You okay, hon?"

She just groaned, pulling her hat down to hide her blushing face. "J-just keep walking…"

The night ended without any passionate kissing between Yu and Naoto. The young man wasn't that upset about the night's lack of physical passion. He understood his girlfriend wasn't comfortable with it yet. He'd respect that.

Really, he was more annoyed at the lack of emotional 'closeness' between them. He knew it was a ridiculous complaint. Yu should have just been happy to be with her, and he was. Any moment by her side was heaven sent, but that didn't mean he couldn't be annoyed by little things. Like when she pulled away from him, scared that someone would see them.

Who cares who sees us? I mean, really, what does it matter?

He told himself how ridiculous he was being. He agreed to keep their relationship a secret. He was the one in the wrong, not her. He just kept repeating that to himself until the frustration went away.

Give Naoto some time. Things will work out, he told himself. He made a promise to wait, and he would for however long it took.

"Are you okay, Yu?"

The silverette blinked, and he looked at Dojima with a quick smile. "Yeah. Sorry. Just distracted."

It was the first day of the new year, and he made plans to give Nanako and her father a good breakfast. He spent most of the morning cooking the delicious meal, before he brought it all to the hospital for them. Both of the Dojimas had been thankful for the feast.

"Big bro, this is so good!" Nanako cheered, happily eating from her box.

"I'm glad you like it," he replied.

"So what's on your mind?" Dojima asked his nephew. The older man sat on his bed, a box of delicious food on his lap. Yu sat beside him on a chair as Nanako ate on another chair.

"Oh. It's nothing. Just teenager stuff," Yu replied.

"Hm. You know, I used to be a teen too."

"Really? Huh. Kind of always just thought you were born this old."

"Smart alec." Dojima smiled at his nephew, and both knew he probably would have used another word to describe Yu if Nanako wasn't around. "You know, you've really changed since you came to Inaba."

Yu chuckled, deciding not to comment. Ryotaro took it as a chance to continue.

"You have a man's face now. A man's walk. I wish I could have taught you more, honestly, but I'm happy to see you've matured so well." The silverette appreciated the compliment, but when the words sank in, he frowned. Dojima saw that, and the older man's brow furrowed in confusion. "What is it?"

"Just frustrated."

"Everyone gets that way. It's a part of life, unfortunately, even when things couldn't be better. You shouldn't be ashamed of feeling it." Yu nodded his head. "Can I ask what's bothering you exactly? Maybe I can help?"

How much have I changed really...? Yu opened his mouth, but quickly closed it. "I appreciate that, uncle, but I think I need to deal with this myself right now. Besides, I'm probably just blowing it out of proportions."

"Problems always look bigger when they're right in front of us, and smaller looking back." Dojima nodded his head. "I understand. Just don't be afraid to ask questions if you ever need help."

"Right. Thanks." Yu glanced at his phone, and his eyes widened. "Oh, shoot. I have to get going."

"Aww! Already!?" Nanako groaned. The older boy just smiled, patting her head.

"I'll be back tomorrow, Nanako. Promise!"

Dojima smiled at the two, firmly, yet gently reminding Yu of reality. "Don't spend so much time with us you forget about all of your other friends. I heard you even made friends with the nurses here. Break won't last forever. Enjoy the time you have with those closest to you."

"I know, I know." Yu waved the worries away, smiling as he stood up. "Bye, Nanako-chan, bye, Dojima!" The two waved goodbye in return, and the silverette took out his phone to glance at his last message. The sight of it made him smile as he walked out of the hospital.

'MEET W/ ME AT MY APARTMENT? Y/N PLEASE RESPOND.'

Naoto is so cute, he thought.

It didn't take Yu long to reach the woman of his dream's apartment. He took a deep breath and sighed, rolling his shoulders as he loosened his body up. It was the kind of effect Naoto had on him. Yu was typically a confident individual, but damn it. His Detective Prince knew just how to make him blush.

Yu had been with many people, and had done all kinds of things a young man his age shouldn't have, but nothing made him blush more than his Naoto. It was part of the reason he loved her. She had a power over him, even if she didn't realize it.

He knocked on the door and waited, but when it opened, he found a stranger. The man was certainly older than Yu, closer to Dojima's age, and he had graying hair with a pair of dark glasses covering his eyes.

"Uh… Hi. I'm sorry, is Naoto Shirogane here?" Yu inquired, raising a brow as he looked the man over.

"Ah, yes, she's-"

"Y-Yakushiji-san!" Naoto's voice called out to the man, and both he and Yu turned their heads to find the exasperated detective running over, dressed in a coat and sweater ensemble. "This is my upperclassman! Narukami-senpai."

Yu felt a bit insulted by the blase introduction, but he smiled all the same. "My friends call me Yu." He lifted up his hand and the stranger shook the younger boy's hand. "It just hasn't gotten through to her yet."

"It is wonderful to meet you. I am happy to see Shirogane-san is making friends here, and I know her grandfather will feel the same." The older man then turned to Naoto with a small smile. "Will you be leaving now, Shirogane-san?"

"Y-yes!" Yu raised his brow, noticing how out of character Naoto was acting. She cleared her throat and took a deep breath. "Narukami-senpai and I will be meeting with our friends at the local shrine. I will be back momentarily."

"Please, take your time." Yakushiji-san bowed his head and stepped out of Naoto's way, letting her step outside to stand by Yu. "Have a good day, Narukami-san. It was nice meeting you."

"Same, Yakushiji-san." The silver-haired youth bowed his head, and watched as the door closed. Yu then looked to his girlfriend, a confused frown on his lips. "What was that about? Who was he, and what's wrong with you?"

Naoto let out a brief sigh, motioning for Yu to follow her as they walked. "Yakushiji-san is the butler at my family's estate. He helps my grandfather, mostly, but he has assisted me in basic tasks before."

"Butler? Seriously? Why was he here?"

"H-he was just making a delivery to me. Bringing some of my things from my grandfather's estate back here." Naoto avoided Yu's gaze. "I was merely worried about him seeing something between the two of us. Yakushiji-san is intelligent, and he could easily see something between us if we gave even the smallest hint."

"I mean, I'm sure he'd keep it a secret if we asked," Yu assured.

"I'd rather not put him under that sort of pressure in the first place. My grandfather has a talent for finding out the truth."

"Surprise parties must be hard." The air was quiet between the two as they walked on the sidewalk, the snow crunching under their feet. "I'm sure your grandfather wouldn't mind his granddaughter was dating someone. I mean, he may have a problem with me, personally, but just saying." He tried to make it sound like a joke, but judging by the silence that followed, it fell flat.

Naoto didn't say anything at first, and Yu wasn't sure what to say. So he just sighed and apologized. "I'm sorry."

"No, I apologize. I understand keeping our relationship a secret can be stressful. Even disappointing," she confessed. "I'm sorry."

His hand caught hers, and he lifted it up to kiss her knuckles through her gloves. "Hey. It's okay. I love you." He pecked her fingers again as they came to a stop.

"T-thank you," she muttered, staring at his smiling face. "I… I feel the same way about you."

Yu nodded his head, but he held her hand as he winked at her, flashing his teeth as her silver eyes shimmered. "And by the way, I love the outfit. You look beautiful, babe." Her face immediately turned a bright shade of red as she stuttered a response.

"W-why would you say that out of the blue?! You just love saying embarrassing things, don't you?" Yu snickered in mischievous glee as he freed her fingers, and the two returned to their walk. "Are-? You're sure you're not disappointed in my attire?"

"Naoto." He looked at her, silver eyes gleaming with honesty as he spoke right from his heart. "You look great."

Yu and Naoto arrived at the shrine. The area was vacant, thankfully, giving the couple the chance to hold hands. They approached the first shrine and prayed together, closing their eyes to concentrate. Once they were done, they stepped away and turned to one another.

"What did you wish for?" Naoto inquired.

For a brief moment, Yu considered making some kind of joke or snarky comment. He decided against it, and spoke plainly. "That you and me will be together forever, happily in love. That no matter what obstacles come our way, you and I will be strong enough to deal with them."

"I made a similar wish," she confessed, her cheeks turning a familiar pink hue. "I gave thanks for our time together, and I wished for a full life together this year, by each other side." Her blush faded as Naoto turned her gaze away, sighing. "In hindsight, though, that will be impossible. Our time together is limited. Nothing lasts forever…"

"Hey. You never know." Yu leaned forward to peck her cheek, pulling her into a quick embrace. "We've made the impossible possible before. If anyone can make forever work, it's us." Naoto rested in his arms for a moment, enjoying the softness and warmth.

When they pulled apart, the silverette smirked at her. "Want to come by my place? I'd love to have you over for a coffee. Teddie's out with Yosuke, so it'd just be us."

The blue-haired detective's eyes widened, and she gulped down her nerves as she considered the offer. "I-I told Yakushiji-san I'd be back soon, s-so I shouldn't-" She caught Yu's eyes twitching. He did his best to hide his disappointment for her sake, but her eyes were trained to notice the little details. She felt a pang of guilt, before reconsidering her answer. "Well, I suppose I can spare an hour, or two..."

Naoto sat on Narukami's sofa, watching her boyfriend prepare a cup of coffee for them. He already knew just how she liked it, and he winked at her as he made sure it was as black as possible.

He seems so happy, she thought to herself. He wasn't the only one, though. Naoto felt so different around Narukami. He was a star, shining light down on her life and helping her step out of her comfort zone, yet respecting her boundaries.

She truly did love him, and that brought a great joy to her heart. Yet it was a double-edged sword. His mood after his meeting Yakushiji-san was indicative of that.

He doesn't want to keep our relationship a secret. That much was obvious. But he promised me he would be. He wouldn't have promised it if he couldn't manage. That was what she told herself, at least.

There were many reasons she didn't want the others to know about their relationship. The group's dynamic would, no doubt, suffer. Not to mention it might compromise how the others saw her. What if they thought less of her? What if they saw her only as Narukami's romantic interest?

She sighed quietly to herself. The famed detective closed her eyes, thinking to herself as she recalled another reason for why she want their relationship a secret.

What if they didn't work out? What if their relationship ended because Narukami no longer loved her? What if the pain of separation soured their bond while they were apart? What if Narukami died, and she was left alone?

Naoto had already lost her parents. She wasn't sure if she could survive the death of Yu Narukami. She had only just begun to fall in love with him...

"Hon? You okay?" Narukami's voice shook her from her thoughts, and she realized his face was inches from hers.

"Ah!" Naoto blinked, almost jumping in her seat. She blushed once more, noticing the cup of coffee on the table in front of them as he tilted his head.

"Naoto? What's up?"

"N-nothing. You just surprised me." She shook her head, adjusting her hat slightly. "Apologizes."

"No problem. Penny for your thoughts?"

Naoto picked up her coffee and gently blew on it. Narukami joined her, sitting by her side as she pondered just what she should say. "Have you ever wondered what you wanted to do with your life after this?"

"Huh? What, you mean like a career?" She nodded her head. "Honestly, I haven't given it much thoughts. I try to be more of an 'in the now' kind of guy, but… Hm. Maybe I'll finally graduate from junior detective and become your partner. Solve crimes with you."

Naoto's fingers squeezed the handle of her cup. The very thought brought a bittersweet sting down her throat. "There are many career options for you, Narukami. You're an intelligent young man. I'm sure you can find a fulfilling career in anything."

"That's kind of the problem. Everything feels so easy, sometimes. Nothing feels fulfilling. Guess that's part of the reason I fell for you." Naoto's neck warmed up as she glanced at his smiling face. "You were so unlike everyone I've ever met. Confident, cool, with this… aura around you. You were so perfectly unique. Then I started seeing more and more of the real you, and I just kept falling deeper and deeper in love."

Her heart pounded in her chest as he confessed his feelings to her. She tried to quiet the drumming beat, but it refused to listen to her mind.

"I just want to spend my life with you, Naoto. That's why becoming a detective with you wouldn't be so bad."

Those words made her heart stop for a moment. They should have honored her. Should have made her happy, but all they did was fan her fears. Her parents were partners. They solved many cases together, side by side. They also died together, side by side.

"I don't want that kind of life for you, unless you choose it." Yu opened his mouth to speak, but she silenced him by putting her cup down and leaning towards him. Their faces were inches apart as his own cheeks began to turn a dark pink. "That was what my parents told me when I told them I wanted to follow in their footsteps."

"I want to be with you, Naoto. Forever. Wherever that might lead to." His own cheeks were flushed. She would have found it amusing at another time.

Naoto's eyes fell shut and she sighed quietly. "Nothing lasts forever, Narukami." His hand touched her cheek, and she opened her eyes. His silver eyes were the first and only thing she saw.

They were locked in each other's gaze. Naoto felt lost in those silver orbs, and she wondered if Narukami felt the same way about her own. She never felt particularly proud of her eyes. They were just there. Nothing to admire.

Yet judging by the way Yu smiled and the way his eyes lit up, he saw something else. It made her heart soar. He made her feel like she truly was beautiful.

"Then I want to be together with you for the rest of my life. Forever or not, I love you."

It was a grim fact. One day they would be apart. Separated. The truth was Yu only had months left in Inaba. Naoto had no idea of when he would return to the small town, or even if she would still be here when he did. What if she was called away? What if something happened to the other when they were apart…? What if this was their last night together?

Naoto pressed her lips against his, scared she'd forget the sensation tomorrow. Narukami's eyes widened as he sucked in air through his nose. Then he melted into her kiss, gently stroking her hair with one hand as the other pulled her closer.

Their midwinter clothes were left on a chair nearby. Naoto was wearing just her pants and button-up shirt, while Yu was left in his own pants and a simple, white shirt.

This meant there was just thin cloth between their bodies. Naoto could feel the warmth of Narukami's skin as they continued to kiss, their lips meeting each other again and again. They adjusted slightly, neither needing to talk. Yu moved so Naoto was on top of him, and they rested their bodies along the long sofa, feet dangling off the edge. Her lips wrestled against his, before pulling away.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"Mmm… What for?"

"I didn't mean to ruin the mood, I-"

"Be quiet, hon," he muttered, attacking her neck with a flurry of kisses.

Naoto melted into his embrace, shuddering as his teeth grazed her neck. Sometimes Yu made her feel like she couldn't even breathe. She lost control around him. "I'm scared when we're together. No one else makes me feel this way," she confessed.

"There's a whole world of pleasure you haven't felt yet." He smirked at her, white teeth gleaming. "I can show you, if you want."

She didn't say anything. She just placed her hands on his chest, and lifted herself up. She stretched her arms, supporting herself as they stared into one another's eyes. Yu lifted up his hand to gently stroke her leg.

Naoto closed her eyes, enjoying the soothing sensation. Then she felt her hand on her posterior, and she shot a glare down at him. Her already flushed cheeks turned a brighter shade of red as he smirked at her.

"What?"

"S-stop that!"

He chuckled at her, lifting his hand off of her butt as he grinned like the devil she knew he was. "Couldn't resist. You're too beautiful for your own good."

Naoto huffed, squeezing the cloth of his shirt with her lithe fingers. She pouted as his eyes took in her form. "You keep calling me that. Do you really mean it?"

"You know I do."

He wasn't wrong, but… "Tell me anyways."

Yu laughed at that, and Naoto wanted to take back her request. She never had the chance as he grabbed her arm and pulled on it, making her fall down onto his chest. His lips captured hers once more, and this time his tongue darted out to lick her bottom lip. His silver, predatory eyes shined as he reminded her of his feelings.

"You are the hottest, sexiest, most beautiful women I have ever seen. You are a goddess. My goddess. Everytime I look into those eyes, I just fall deeper and deeper in love. How can someone so perfect like you even exist?" He flashed his teeth, winking at her crimson face. "When we kiss, I just lose control. I just want to tear those bandages off and-"

"A-alright! You can stop!" Her face had never felt so hot. She reached for her hat, only to find it gone. It must have slipped off during their 'passionate bonding.' She stared at Yu, her heart pounding louder and louder in her chest, before her lips moved without thought. "Show me more of this world you speak of."

She saw Yu's cheeks brighten, and that accursed smirk vanished for a moment. She wanted to revel in surprising her boyfriend, before her lover grinned. He pulled her down for another counterattack, pressing her lips into another kiss.

END

This was updated sooner than I thought. That's good! Hopefully I didn't lose any quality.

So, this chapter has some important bits in it. I've always been interested in where a relationship goes after the first kiss/date. Where do Yu and Naoto go now? Well, turns out neither of them are quite done learning about themselves. I'm setting up their first fight, another concept I enjoy reading and writing about. You can probably see the hints of what it's about in this chapter. Yu is frustrated keeping their relationship a secret, and the distance Naoto sometimes puts up, while Naoto is scared of becoming close to Yu, and losing him like she did her parents. Meanwhile, Yu's inevitable leaving weighs on both of them.

Obviously the two are going to end up together, but couples argue. That's just how things be. All good couples have arguments. What's important is that they patch things up, which obviously our heroes will. Then all they have to do is fight a goddess. That should be easy.

I also wanted to portray Yu as getting along with all of his friends now. That's why he has little moments with Yukiko, Yosuke, and others. I couldn't devote time to everyone in this chapter, but expect more of that in the next one, as well as the beginning of the ski trip! It's like a mini-arc in an arc, like the school festival!

Have a good day everyone, stay safe, and know that you are loved!

Next Update: July 1st.