A/N: Well, this is the end of the Spring arc! Technically Spring ended during the last chapter, but you know what I mean. We're almost done with setting up most of the pieces on the board! We just got some loose ends to settle here and then, Summer begins and the plot starts to unfold!

Chapter 9

07/08

It was starting to feel like it was mid-summer already and it was still not even ten days in July! Kanji was enjoying some Topsicles with his hard earned money as someone was passing him by, in very fitting summer attire; a sleeveless white button-up, blue camisole underneath it, and slim, dark blue pants. The blue hair and eyes made it clear who it was.

"Naoto!? That you?" His blunt voice reached her ears quickly, now she realized that normal looking, yet tall citizen was actually a friend of hers!

"Kanji-kun…!? That's you?" She was flabbergasted; as her well trained Detective eyes have failed her for the first time in a long while. That face looked the same, but his hair… clothing choice, and the normal pair of glasses were what threw the usually eagle-eyed sleuth off her game. He was wearing a short-sleeved white button up, a shirtpocket on the left side of his chest. Pressed black bants, and black shoes. He had his collar popped out like a certain someone they knew. Was he emulating their Senpai's style? "I… couldn't recognize you from your rather… drastic change of appearance. My apologies."

"Speak for yourself! You look very different too! You're not wearing your usual getup either!" They both would start laughing at this trivial matter.

"Well, I see you are enjoying yourself at least. Are you finished working with your mother for today?"

"Nah, I'm just taking a break. It's freakin' hot today for early July." He shrugged, electing to take another bite of his frozen treat.

"Indeed. I was just going to get a book that should be in stock today. I'd rather not be lingering around for so long."

"Hah… not a fan of the heat?" He was surprised, given his recollection of the fact that her Persona nullifies Fire.

"I don't mind it, Kanji-kun. I just would rather not deal with it." Sounds like an admission of guilt to him…

"Well, ya want one of these?" He would gesture to the unopened treat he had on hand.

"Oh, well, I couldn't possibly-"

"Nah, c'mon! I don't mind. If you can't finish it, we can always break it apart and split it." He was too dense to realize what that would imply. Even Naoto could tell, but god bless his ignorance and genuine good nature.

A second to ponder, she would reach forth and grab the treat. "Fine, if you insist… Then I trust you will keep me company until I finish?" The wrapper was peeled off and tossed into the appropriate bin.

"Yeah, that's fine with me." He still wasn't used to her figure. It never bothered him, nor did he get flustered like before… but this is still something he needs to get used to. She's still gosh darn beautiful in his mind. Her masculine personality traits blended well with her feminine beauty which she concealed for who knows how long.

"Then tell me, why did you change your hair color? Since you're teasing me on my preferences, after all…" Was she being playful with him? Such a coy attitude is different for him to expect of the Detective, and well, for herself as well.

"I ain't teasin'!" Yeah, he is. He's just not fully aware of it, yet. But of course she can catch onto it when it's merely a different brand of jesting compared to say, Rise or Yosuke's methods. "I just… Don't think I need that rough look anymore. This is me, after all. I used to dye it out of habit to scare any would-be punks who disturbed my Ma. I didn't wanna wait for my hair to grow out, so I just colored it back to black. Now it's gonna stay this way."

"Hm…" She gained a new insight of his past; his reasons for the rough exterior were more interpersonal than many would suspect, including her. "That's a kind gesture, Kanji-kun. But I'm glad there's no reason to be that way. This look… suits you."

"Y-Ya think!?" He looked away, hand scratching the back of his head at her genuine compliment. In the past, he would have reacted loudly, but he is making a more concerted effort to take these kinds of words in a more accepting manner. "Thanks, Naoto; I still don't fully think I've been done growin'… but I hope one day I'll get there."

"We all are trying to grow, Kanji-kun." She too felt she wasn't satisfied with where she was… but she was pleased with where she was going. "And we're all going to keep growing together…"

"Yeah. That's something I can't forget… Can't let Senpai down, after all."

"Hmhm…" He really looked up to Souji. She glanced at the Topsicle she held in her hand, finally giving it a try. Such things felt childish in her mind… but it seems childlike wonder wins today. This was good.

Steam was compacted in the small shower room inside of Takura Production's Okina studio. Inside its blurred, steamed glass doors had a figure hidden beneath its frosted style veil... It was Risette, the Idol who was washing off all the sweat from another hard day's work of getting back into peak form. She felt all of her skills return to her, but it still wasn't time to be getting involved with major events. She had much more to do. This morning, she had a photoshoot with the finalized version of her outfit she plans to wear for the LMB festival in September. She personally requested that it delves into the Yasogami design, the houndstooth pattern prominent on her skirt and on the bright pink bow she wore.

Soap was receding down the drain as she hummed along to her last Hit single, True Story, wiping her body down. She was finishing up as it took only a few more minutes before the knobs would turn, the showerhead stopping the stream of water.

Stepping out of the shower, she took the white towel off the rack and began drying her body, her figure tilting as she looked at the mirror, blurred by the steam. She would wipe it with her hand, getting a clear look at her bewitching body. She certainly wasn't lacking confidence, as she always felt great after a good shower, in both spirit and looks; especially when she finished practicing for the day. Her wide hips, derriere, her long legs, her beautiful eyes, and her bust all on display for herself and the reflection. She squinted a bit when seeing her bust, recalling that she did feel her outfit was tighter than before… And her assumption was right.

"They grew…" She felt a surge of pride, as if she was finally able to match Yukiko, but probably not close enough to rival Naoto or Marie. She'll need to talk to the staff about getting refitted sooner rather than later.

When she finished drying off, she stepped into the private changing room where her normal clothes were waiting for her. The bright lights and the mirrors further assured the idol of her ideal figure as she began to put her clothes on, her naked frame slowly being covered piece by piece until she was fully dressed and ready to head home. Along her walk down the hall and towards the lobby, she spotted Inoue, a slight grimace on his face. A woman in a blue outfit was seen leaving the building, hard steps from her heels fading in the distance.

"Oh, Inoue-san, is something wrong?"

He finally notices Rise as something was starting to weigh heavily on his mind.

"Rise-chan, it's nothing major." He shook his head to reassure the Idol, clearly not being upfront, but she didn't have much time to worry about that. It was starting to get late.

"If you say so."

"Actually, there was something I wanted to tell you. Mind if we discuss it on the way to the station?"

"Okay!" She followed her Manager to his dark colored vehicle; where he would waste no time on the short ride getting to his point as the car would start to move.

"I hate saying this, Rise-chan… but we may have to move you to Tokyo once you finish your semester here."

"Wait, why? I thought we could work here for a long time!" All of a sudden she was being told to let go of Inaba. This was not part of her plan.

"I'm sorry, but that was the reason why I was looking a bit stressed. That woman you saw leaving… was Ochimizu."

"O-Ochimizu!?" That name strikes fear in any idol's heart. If you know, you know.

"Yes. She's now leading the LMB Festival and she wants you there. Apparently, as a show of 'good faith', she will let you finish the term here. But come the end of July… I'll be going with you to Tokyo. Even I have to go back. They are really putting all they have into this."

"Hughhh… " She groaned out an ugly moan of frustration. Sure, she considered this… but now the choice was made for her. And by a loathed figure in the Idol world no less, by fans and idols alike. A true Heel amongst Japanese media.

"You think you can do it…?" His voice trailed, fully aware and prepared that she would dislike this. It wasn't even a question. She had to, especially if she wanted to make her comeback.

"I…" Her thoughts would dwell to all of her friends. Her Senpai, Naoto, Kanji, and the Dojima family; her grandmother and neighboring shopkeepers, and her last thought stopped at the green eyed man who had supported her ever since they got acquainted. And it was at that moment, she felt her heart fully sink. Why? Why was it at him that she finally felt the reality hit her like a truck?

"Rise-chan?"

Her mind snapped back, the glare of the evening sun made her head face the other way.

"Yeah. I'll be ready… I have to be."

"I'm sorry, Rise; I tried to keep you here longer, but you know her reputation." His own mask fell, the optimism faded, but Rise tried to cheer him up.

"It's okay, Inoue-san. I appreciate you sticking your neck out for me like that. Ochimizu is brutal. I can't imagine what she told you."

"Better left unsaid, I'm afraid."

A defeated sigh would escape her bittered lips. "Yeah. Well, my Senpai is coming back for the Summer, so I'd like to enjoy that time with everyone before I go."

"...That's fine with me. She did give you the whole month to get everything sorted out." It was a request from him, actually. But it's best to leave it at that.

"Thanks, Inoue-san. I'll be sure to enjoy my time with them while I still can."

"Of course." It wouldn't take long before they reached Okina station. "I got here just in time. You can make the train. Everything all good?"

"Yeah." Well, all except the countless knots forming from within her heart. "Thanks, Inoue-san. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Of course. I'll see you later, Rise-chan." He would offer his best, reassuring smile to her as she disembarked from the car. She would bow lightly to him as she hurried up the steps, train pass in hand.

As she boarded the train with a minute to spare, she took her seat, realizing only a few people were on the train, but in a different car. She had the whole car to herself.

Her body slumped into her seat as it finally hit her. She will be saying goodbye to everyone by the end of the month. But what bothered her more was… why does she feel so apprehensive about Masato of all people? She pulled out her phone, texting him immediately.

{Masato-kun!~ You busy? I wanna talk to you for a bit. It doesn't have to be over the Phone…}

During that same time, at the Amagi Inn, Yukiko was just finishing up a lesson about cooking with Masato. …He seemed exhausted. How did Souji get through to her? She always tries to deviate off course. It seems he needs to work on his Expression, Understanding, and be more diligent to get his point across easier.

"I think that will do for today, Yukiko-sama."

"Okay then. Thanks for the lessons today."

"It's no problem. You have exams soon, right?"

"Mhm. I feel pretty confident about passing them."

"Well, you should probably spend the rest of the week getting ready, just to be sure."

"I suppose that's fair. You've been teaching me every time you're here… perhaps a break will help me."

"I think so too. Plus, we can get back to it after you finish the semester. I'll be working more hours as well."

"Ah, yes, I forgot you have your own exams. I hope I haven't inconvenienced you, Masato-kun."

"No, not at all!" He can't tell her that it's a lie. "But I will need that time to study as well, so I'll be getting to work on that when I get home."

"Well, I think it's time for you to go, actually." Turning her head, she saw the clock just pass the hour mark for 8PM. "Oh, yes, it is time for you to go. I'll clean this up since I kept you here longer than usual."

"Thank you, Yukiko-sama. By your leave, then." He bowed to the young manager, knowing he can't push her on her kind offer, just like her mother in that regard. He changed out of his work clothes and into his summer wear, a light gray tee with a western sports team's logo and name on the front with blue jean shorts, white tennis shoes and socks. Stepping out through the entrance, he found his scooter in the waning evening atmosphere and took off, needing to get back down before it went fully dark. He felt his phone buzz while driving down the smoothly paved road, having to look at it once he arrived into the shopping district for gas.

Minutes later of driving, he would have the newer attendant fill up his scooter while he pulled out his phone, seeing it was a text from Rise. Reading the enthusiastic call for attention, he would reply.

{Sure. What seems to be the problem, Rise?} The benefit of texting and emailing was that it was far less challenging to play the roles he was given; it was much easier compared to in person. Sure, the message's tone and intent was harder to discern, but this was a worthy trade off.

It didn't take the girl who was still on her last train home long to respond.

{Heya, Masato-kun!~ I hope I didn't disturb you while you're working. You're not busy are you?} There was a star emoticon placed right beside his name.

{No trouble. I just left work, actually, so go ahead and share whatever is troubling you.}

The girl's fingers would remain idle over the screen, unsure of how to word this. Does she say it bluntly or skirt around the point?

{Masato-kun, you enjoy spending your time with me? I'm not a bother to you, hm?} A concerned looking emoji was sent right after.

{Of course not. I enjoy being around you, Rise.} More than both of them realized.

{Aw, thanks!} She sent that quickly, but was not finished, as her speeding fingers would indicate. {If I had to leave Inaba, would you miss me?} She was sounding so clingy, even more so than before. And it wasn't something that was intentional like with Souji to rattle a good reaction out of, this was just natural.

{I would be pretty bummed if you left, but why do you ask? Did something come up?} His reaction came across as tame to her, but now the question was posed upon her.

With a hard sigh as the train entered through the dark tunnel, she continued typing.

{Well, my manager told me I need to go to Tokyo at the end of month. It's for that festival I told you about a while back when we were eating skewers} This must have been what Kanji witnessed some time ago. {I don't want to go, but this is for my comeback. I'm going to miss everyone… but I need to do this}

This caused a small irritation in both of their chests. A quiet discomfort that they had to endure, yet never realized why.

{I'm sorry to hear that. But I do wish you the very best, Rise. This means a lot to you, so I'll be rooting for you every step of the way.} His message was supportive, yet it was a bit detached, by choice no less.

Her lips would tilt slightly, eyes blinking twice as she read his response. His reaction sounded artificial at first glance.

{Hey, you'll miss me right?} She cut to the heart of the matter. As she sent it, she just remembered she had something she wanted to send him.

His scooter was filled up and passed along to him. It was time to head home. One more reply before he needed to hit the road.

{I'll miss you; but we can see each other again someday, yeah?}

He put his phone away into his pocket once more and took off from the Shopping District, heading straight home. Tonight is a Mapo Tofu kind of night…

Back inside the Amagi Inn, Yukiko was in her room, ready to retire the rest of her evening in solitude, but she heard her phone ring. When she pulled it out of her bag, she saw a familiar name and hit the answer button as fast as she could.

"S-Souji-kun?"

"Good evening to you too, Yukiko." It was indeed her beloved.

"It's been too long, Souji-kun. How are you?"

His tone was weary, but he did not want to tell her about his father. And how he can't come here, to his proper home in Inaba. He just needed a familiar voice to talk to as he contemplated his next action.

"I'm fine. I just wanted to talk to you for a moment, get some space away from my troubles."

"...Is something wrong?"

"Just finals; nothing too major." That was only partially true.

"Oh, I see. I remember you said Kosei High was a more challenging school."

"That, it is. But like Yaso High, it's got its fair share of eccentric characters."

"Ooh, tell me! You never told me if you made any friends." Her eyes would brighten with intrigue, almost like Nanako's would when she saw a magic trick.

"Alright, who do I start with…" He would begin with Katashi, his rival in Kendo, and how almost every day there was practice, he would challenge him. At first, the class found it funny, now it was just like rehearsal. It would be more concerning if he didn't say it.

"He sounds like a, pfft, a sports manga rival, Ahahahahaha!" Her laugh was so loud Souji had to take his phone off his ear, her cackling still being heard no matter what part of his bedroom he was in. He needed a minute for her to calm down.

"Yeah, it's a bit jarring to find someone who fits that archetype so well."

"But what about your other friend?" She would ask, her eccentric tone trying to come back down.

Souji would then elaborate on Ayame, the Tomboy and Class beauty. Her looks contradict her quirky and in your face nature, but Yukiko joked that the way he described her it was like she was both Yukiko and Chie fused together akin to a certain popular Shonen manga, causing her to laugh again.

"Bahahaha! Please tell me she's in, Haha, a fighting group!? Ahahaha!" Her laughing was getting out of hand. It wasn't this bad before….

"Uh, no; she's in archery." This made her laugh more, as the idea was ironic to her. A loud, outspoken individual in a calm sport like Archery? That was very unorthodox!

"You gonna be okay, Yukiko? You need to breathe." And he wasn't wrong. She had been laughing so much for so long.

"Ahaha-oh! S-Sorr-ehehehee…" She was trying her best to calm down fully. It took a minute for her to fully calm down and breathe again. When she finally came down from that borderline maniacal cackling, she insisted on continuing. When he brought up his moment of opening up towards Ayame in regards to his time in Inaba, showing a picture of himself and Yukiko, the Priestess felt her heart sink, but for a good reason.

"S-Souji-kun…"

"Something wrong?"

"N-No! Not at all…" She was blushing fiercely. "It's just…. I think that's the first time you boasted about me, like I'm your girl…"

"I wouldn't say I was boasting…" He couldn't help but smile as he thought of himself bragging about her for real.

"Still, that means a lot to me… like I'm a girl worth bragging about." She didn't want to tell him about her little dreams about boasting to her classmates about what a great man she has all to herself.

"Yukiko… then I should be a guy worth praising."

"You… are already like that, silly…." Her blushing persisted as the two had gone silent for a moment.

"...Yukiko. I'll be back soon. No matter what, I will come back home." She didn't quite understand why he sounded so determined. She wasn't aware of his father's ban of traveling to Inaba, after all.

"Mm. I… no, we all will be here to welcome you back home."

"Thank you, Yukiko." Their night went on…

But the mysterious Masato's was not over just yet. He had just arrived at his apartment and as he unlocked the door, he felt his phone buzz again.

Once he entered the small complex, he tossed his bag to the side and he himself would rest upon the tatami, a few feet away from his guitar. He only practiced during the day so as to not disturb any neighbors. This apartment was smaller and more old fashioned, but it got the job done. He pulled his phone out to see what Rise sent. There were two messages.

{Thanks, Masato-kun!~ I'll miss you more! I trust you alot you know~~} An arrow piercing through a heart emoticon was next to her text.

{Are you back home?} The first one was sent a minute after he sent his last message, but this was more recent.

He shook his head in amusement, as he found it… endearing how clingy she was to him now… Wait, now? Could she be…? This happened to him before, a long time ago, and it burned him then. He cannot have history repeat itself. But as he pondered his options… there was no way out. His next reaction was in check. Damned if he responds in a positive manner to her potential interest and pushing it further, damned if he brushes it off and in turn, herself, and being too neutral might also cause some sort of strain. And to top it all off, he was wondering about another factor; was he also falling for her?

…No way. He can't. He knows better; he's seen the consequences of it. It just wasn't possible. So why was there still this nagging feeling in his heart? In his mind, he told himself this wasn't likely. She was seventeen, and he was "nineteen", but his true age was seventeen as well, but his real birthday would be coming soon. Truth be told, he would be a third year in High school, but since 2010, he had been doing tasks for the Shadow Operatives. Why would she be interested in his lying lifestyle? All of it was fabricated; his birthday, profile, profession, and his personality. All of it was fake; could she even understand what that means? Could any of her friends? She trusts him of all people. That's so ironic. Her feelings on him in general would flip if she knew that he was keeping tabs on them. But when they were alone, he was speaking not as Masato the Impostor, but as the real person beneath the mask. Was that who she was interested in? But even if that were the case, the mask never fully came off; always being Masato and not… him. His heart was feeling more twisted by these conflicting emotions and thoughts. He needed to reply now.

{I'm home now.

He paused, not sending the message yet, but electing to add on to it.

And I'm happy to hear you say that. I didn't think I would mean that much to you.} His fingers went against his mind's instincts, the message being sent before he could have time to regret and delete it. In fact, he was starting to lean a bit more into what he wanted to do, instead of considering the mission's status. This was him going against his own protocol.

It took only a minute for her response, but in that moment, he stared at the ceiling, eyes still and his vision zoning out, losing focus as he recalled those moments from two years ago... Bitter memories best left to the wayside. When his phone buzzed, he pulled it up immediately, his gaze straightening out and back into focus.

{I mean it, silly! You mean a lot to me!~ So much, even.} As she sent that, now in the comfort of her own home; something had sunk inside her as well. She felt the dip in the center of her chest. She wondered why she said it in that way? He did mean a lot to her, that much is true. In these few months, she's done a lot with him. Sometimes, counting down the days until they got to meet up for some fun made anything from school to work worth grinding through. It was just like with her Senpai–Wait.

It was starting to hit her. It was Finally starting to hit her. She was falling for him. Unlike Souji, who she viewed as a knight in shining armor from that moment in the TV World onward, who saved her from quite literally a life or death situation… Of course she fell for her senpai on the spot before even getting to know him. It was infatuation. In another world, maybe she would have genuinely fallen for him and he goes for her instead. But here, there was no chance.

Masato was a different case. He saved her from a stressful situation, and sure, it would have escalated further, but that's not worth dwelling on. What is worth pondering was that since then, she's come to see him, and sometimes, they would go out. Nothing romantic, of course; in her mind, he wasn't interested in her like that. His reactions, even when she spoke to him alone, were never too pushy. He wasn't a borderline sleazy flirt like Yosuke was when he first met her, or especially not like Teddie, who was a bad flirt to all but the middle-aged wives he made one too many moves on in Junes. Masato was fun to tease, sure, but she's been slowly phasing that out, taking his words to heart of finding some of her advances a little bit unnerving. He insisted things were well, but she didn't know it was due to his desire to maintain some distance for his mission's, and his heart's sake.

He was always around for her, but rarely did he take initiative. That was about to change however.

{Rise… whenever you have the time. Maybe before you leave, can we see each other before you go? There's something I want to tell you that I think you should know.}

Her heart skipped one, no, maybe two beats when she read his request. To her, there was only one possible way to interpret this. Maybe he does have a thing for her? No way; Masato knew the dangers of such a relationship. He's mentioned he has some awareness in regards to some of the toxic things idol culture is plagued with. Especially with her comeback inching closer by the day, this was a big no no. But, maybe…

Her eyes were zoning out, thinking about what she could say in this moment. Of course she wants to see him! There was a harder thump coming from her chest as these thoughts scrambled about in her mind, its ricocheting energy surging into her body.

Her doubts were being challenged by this feeling. The harder beating of her heart was proof of this. She needs to go see him to confirm these feelings… even though in the deepest part of her heart, she knew the answer already. There was interest. It wasn't love or anything, but surely there's nothing wrong with going out with someone from an initial sense of intrigue, right?

{Sure! I'd love to hang out with you!} She realized the moment she sent this message that something will interfere with not just her, but likely him as well, as she still believed he was a true college student.

{Can we maybe aim for sometime after Finals? How does the 24th sound to you? It's far away, but I don't want to cancel on you in case I get busy from work. Senpai will be back before that and we have something planned that day for him…}

When he received her message, his chest too felt like it took a hit of suspense upon reading its contents. That was a long way off, but it was a blessing in disguise; as it gave him time to contemplate how to word this. He owes Souji again.

He made his decision. He was going to come clean and tell her about who he was. The mission was going to be put in a dangerous spot, but telling the truth now might hurt her and the team less or maybe, just maybe, they won't be bothered at all; it was feeling more and more like it was the right thing to do. This mask of being someone who couldn't be true friends with all of these wonderful people was starting to discomfort him. But the thing with Masks is; once you wear them for so long, whenever you finally want to take them off, you may find that it takes some of your own flesh off along with it.

{That's fine. I'll be looking forward to it, then.}

{Yay! I can't wait!} She was getting ready to properly relax before bedtime. Her hair would come undone, her twintails now released and her hair was down, wavy and a bit jumbled up as she stared into the mirror.

She actually enjoyed this look. It was not straight and perfectly maintained like Yukiko's hairstyle, but she liked this a lot… maybe she can make this work one day soon.

On Masato's end, he was finally getting started on his food. He had more work to do, after all. Take care of dinner, take a bath, settling the disquiet in his heart.

He still wasn't one hundred percent sure on if Rise was developing feelings for him, but he will know for sure down the road. For now, he needed to tell her everything. Maybe this will help him settle down. And talk to all of them with sincerity and transparency. Perhaps she can help him open up to all of her friends. Just telling everyone from the get go might be overwhelming. Starting out with the closest person he knows might be the best way to go about this, and then they would simply go from there.

Hours would pass, now past 10PM, and he had just exited the bathroom. He would dry himself off, towel wrapped around him as he exited and saw his phone blinking its blue notification light while he put on his clothes to sleep in. Checking, it was another text message. It seems she sent it ten minutes ago.

{Hey, so I have something I want to show you! It's a picture from today's photoshoot that probably won't make the next pinup book.

…Pinup book? Oh, right; he recalled what those were. It took him a second to realize what this might be about… but he wasn't ready for it.

So, this is something only you get to see! Let me know if you like it, okay?~} A Heart emoticon was placed next the end of the mesasge.

There was an attachment to the text. When he clicked to download it, it was definitely something you don't get from a friend usually. It was Rise in her outfit that she would wear to the LMB Festival in September. Pink and White were the dominant colors, but what really stood out to him… was her cleavage on the center of the picture. His eyes were stuck there for a second before he moved up to see her face, winking and blowing a kiss at the viewer's direction, an edited pink heart was aiming towards him through her forwarded hand, index and middle finger straightened out. Her hair had this cute pink houndstooth pattern bow, black choker with a chained piece and silver triangle attached to said chain, and yellow headphones to round out her accessories. The background was also bright pink with parts fading into pure white, some hearts were scattered around her as well. …It was very provocative in a sense, her flirtatious attitude shining through with an endearing spirit of raw charm.

He gulped, she was pretty… really really pretty. He shouldn't lie to her now.

{You look great. Dare, I say, sexy even.} He's going to regret saying that. He was being honest here, too.

She was lying in bed, already in her futon, comfy as her phone buzzed off in her hand while scrolling through the news section.

Her cheeks would flush into a bright shade as she read his message. She's so used to hearing guys and some girls say this to her. It really hit her differently seeing him say that to her.

…Is it too late for her to call him right now?

She shook her head, not wanting to disturb him. She wanted to tease him for this, but she promised herself to ease up on that, wanting to honor his feelings.

Still, she typed something back.

{Thanks! I'm a bit embarrassed seeing you say that.} She opted for honesty instead of deflecting his own words back at her; her fingers scrambling as she wrote another message.

{Today was rough, but you made it better for me… Thanks Masato-kun!~ }

Her words shined through his caged heart, his face giving a clear sense of bewilderment… and interest. He tried to breathe deep, wanting to calm himself and not allow such feelings to control him.

But he was doing a poor job at that. Speaking honestly felt so right... It felt good.

{I'll be here for you, anytime, Rise. Maybe next time you return, I can take you somewhere. My treat, of course.}

Okay, now this, she cannot let pass up! He's walking into a minefield.

{Oh? That kinda sounds like a date, Masato-kun~ I didn't think you could be so bold~ }

He groaned, realizing he did indeed walk into that. He practically strolled into the danger zone. But no, he'll respond how he wants to this time. To hell with this mask.

{If it's with someone like you, I don't think I would be against that.}

Oh, he was definitely acting differently. Her heart skipped once more, wanting to push this further as her eyelids felt heavy, the light of the screen the only visible thing in her dark room.

{Hehe, you should be careful about what you say, Masato-kun~ Especially if you aren't ready for the consequences.}Was she hinting at the "Storm" Souji warned him about during May? Her smile would turn into a pout as she reread his message.

{Heyyy! Someone just like me? Why not say if it's just me?}

He finally had a chance to turn the tide on her! Seize the day, Impostor.

{I was hoping you'd react like that. It's kinda cute when you get flustered.} Stole that one right from her playbook.

{You're the worst.} As fun as this is, she felt her eyes close while she typed that. She needed to rest. {I need to sleep. Otherwise, I'd get you back for that.}

Score one for the Imposter. It took him a while, but he is finally on the board. He had a proud smirk etched on his face.

{I need to as well. I'm looking forward to seeing you again soon.}

She smiled as she barely got to read his message. Responding as best she could with what little strength her eyes had left to keep her spelling correct.

{Good night, Masato-kun!~ Feel free to message me anytime, you dork!}

{Pot, meet kettle. Good night, Rise.}

The two would finally put their phones to the side and the idol's eyes would shut instantly. Masato would finally settle down and try to sleep minutes later. Both slept with heavy hearts, and heavier questions that lingered inside their minds. The long wait has begun.

07/21

Souji had made his choice after he finished talking with Yukiko many nights ago. He was going to leave for Inaba tomorrow morning. He will sneak off if he has to. His mother was likely off as it would be a Sunday. He just needs to leave before she wakes up when the time comes.

As he finished packing his bag, he only had a week's worth of clothes. Mostly clothes he wore last year. But they will do; they have to.

As he set his bag to the side of his desk, he heard a knock on his door.

"Souji? I need to speak to you. I'm coming in." He sighed, hoping she didn't try to walk inside deep enough to see the bag hidden within.

As she entered, she had a bag from a clothes store in one hand.

"Hello, son. Are you busy?"

"No. Is something wrong?"

"Well… there is something that is troubling me." Her tone was still a touch rigid. "Souji, is there something you want really badly? So much so you'll do anything for it, even if the consequences may be dire?"

"...What brings this up?" That was a very odd set of particular questions. Too specific, even.

"Souji. Are you trying to leave tomorrow?"

He almost gasped, his body flinching from her spot on inquiry. How did she realize it? Was he that obvious?

"A mother knows, Souji. Answer me honestly, please." She didn't want to tell him that Dojima informed her of his love for the town and the people in it.

He was cornered, with no choice but to admit the truth with great reluctance.

"Yes. I want to go back. And I will go."

She sighed. Now she was seeing some of herself in him.

"Tell me one thing, then, Souji… why? Why do you want to go back to Inaba so badly, son?" She leaned against the wall, arms crossed with the bag still in her hand. Her eyes never broke away from contact, her work glasses were on her still.

"You really want to know?"

"Of course I do. You're my son, and that was once my home too. Didn't your Uncle tell you that already?"

He always knew that, he just found it hard to believe given how detached she was from it.

He shook his head, a groan escaped his lips. His hand was forced and now he must lay the cards on the table, hoping it was enough to win.

"That town means more to me than you will ever know. I've met great people there, some of which I told you about before. But the things I experienced there, the family I never would have otherwise met… They mean the world to me. And I want to go back while I still can. My future is there. And I don't care what Father believes. I will not do what he wants me to do. I'm sorry, Mother… But I will go, no matter what. You'd have to stop me yourself."

She listened intently, her other hand moving up to her chin, resting there until he finished. When he finished, however… started laughing rather quietly to herself. She hasn't laughed in God knows how long. But before Souji could ask why she was laughing at his resolve, she would speak up.

"Hmhm… Souji, you're just like me. When I wanted to come to Tokyo University, I had to fight with my parents for the chance to go. Days of arguing and debate until I finally got my chance."

"Mother…"

"Is my hometown truly that special to you?"

"Yes. It is; and I would trade all this to be with them."

She closed her eyes, as if contemplating in a deep meditative state. When her eyes opened, she had the biggest smile he's ever seen on her. How many years has it been since he saw her like this?

"Hmm… you're more stubborn now." She would reach into the bag and pull something out. "You're starting to grow up, Souji…. Here." She would step forth and give him a train ticket.

"M-Mother…!" What, how did she get this already?

"Surprised? I told you, your Mother knows best." She shook her head in "disappointment" in her son for underestimating her. "The train will leave at 9:30 AM. However, I have a stipulation for this, Souji. I want you to come back by the end of July. I can't let you stay for too long; for I would like you here more often in August. Is this acceptable?"

"Why do you want me here, Mother? Is it because you fear Father finding out?" He asked, but she would shrug her head in disapproval.

"It's because I want to spend time with you, son. You won't be here for much longer, after all. And I realize now that I have not been an ideal mother to you in recent years. So… when you return home, I want to start over and support you the proper way. If you'll allow me."

He wasn't quite sure what to make of this. This change of heart was unexpected. Her apathy was being forced away from her by her own will. Sure, her tone was still stiff and monotone, but he felt her genuine sense of desire to be there for him. Her eyes never looked brighter than now.

"...Alright, you have a deal. I'll be back by then, Mother. Thank you."

"I'm glad. I have something else for you, Souji." She passed him the bag, the Wild Card searching its contents and finding it to be new clothes that were hidden inside! Gray pants that were light in weight and thus better for handling the summer heat. And there was a blue and white striped shirt. The colors were faded, but likely on purpose.

"Thank you, Mother. These look great." He couldn't help but smile as they looked to suit him well. When he left the clothes on his desk, he felt his mother embrace him suddenly, feeling a bit forced, but it still had him surprised nonetheless.

"Enjoy your time in Inaba, Souji. And tell me all about it when you get home, okay? I want a full detailed report." Was she joking or did she mean for that last sentence to be said the way it was spoken.

"Hm… Of course… Mother." He accepted her embrace, albeit with hesitation. But maybe, just maybe, his bond with her can finally repair and heal itself.

07/22

The day was here at last. Souji had long boarded his train, made it to his stop and transfer and was now on the final train to bring him home at last. His mother's blessing was given, alongside a desire to bring her more local snacks when he returns. He was to remain until the end of the month. It was much more time than during Golden Week, but he needed to make the most of it anyway.

"NOW ARRIVING AT… YASO-INABA…. YASO-INABA…"

The young man who staked his very life protecting this town with every fiber of his being, the friends he fought with and struggled with, have been waiting for a long time for their Leader's return. And his return couldn't have come at a better time. Soon, a new conflict will rise. The continuation of the incident during Golden Week was coming to a head. And he will be needed for that day.

Welcome home, Souji Seta. It's been too long. Welcome home to your friends and family who missed you so. We will be arriving shortly.

A/C: And thus concludes the Spring 2012 arc! That sure was a lot to go through, wasn't it? We've begun setting up P4DAN, Homare is starting to face herself, Rise and Masato have to confront one another but for what seems to be different reasons right now. Text conversations aren't what I usually plan to do, but it was fun to try! Hope you all enjoyed it. Given how easy it is to misunderstand tone and such, I figured it was the right way to get their feelings in a tizzy.

Today's Musical reference is "Coming Home" by Diddy. I've heard this song used for so many memes in regards to Free agency in the sports world so I found a use for it here!

This was just the opening act, Summer is where things heat up, before we have to deal with the P4DAN arc. The days are small, but lots will happen in them! So expect lengthy chapters from here on. Next time will be a bit lighter, however; as it's time for the Golden ending! Obviously it's not the ending of the story, but it concludes P4G well enough! Some details will be different so be sure to pay attention!