Shinichi stood, blinking, for a long pause as Ran eyed Kaito curiously. "So, Professor, who is this guy?"
"Ah... er..." The professor unhelpfully looked down at Shinichi for help, drawing Ran's eyes down to him. Shinichi froze as she watched him with wide eyes. Oh God, she's going to recognize me! He could heard blood rushing past his ears as Ran slowly advanced on him, wearing a blank expression. Kneeling in front of him, she placed her hands on his shoulders and stared into his eyes.
Shinichi's brain was shutting down. His eyelids dropped down. This is the end, he decided, readying himself to experience a world of pain. She's going to realize that I'm Shinichi and kill me for not telling her -
His eyes shot back open as Ran squealed, "Awww! What a cute kid!" and threw her arms around him, smothering him into her chest.
On a normal day, Shinichi might've appreciated this act, but currently, he was finding it difficult to breathe. Choking, Shinichi stood agape, looking to Kaito and the professor in a plea for help (neither answered his plea. Kaito stood looking nonchalant and aloof while the professor gawped). It was a few moments before Ran pulled back, smiling widely.
And then, still wearing that smile, she asked the dreaded question. "Who is he, Professor?"
Filler chapter.