Mai dropped her bag, nausea rising up. Sitting at Ayako's front door, adorned with a red bow, was another vase of flowers.
Chapter Five
Ayako called the police immediately, who agreed to come out and take a report. Mai refused to even enter the apartment, partially convinced he could be hiding somewhere inside. The two waited in the outer hallway while an officer took a quick sweep of the place.
Mai had called Naru first. She's not sure how much he understood from her stammering and crying, but he rushed over, getting there just after the police did.
He pulled Mai into his arms, holding her tightly. Mai locked her arms around him, her eyes staring over his shoulder, into the apartment. The officer came back out.
"No one's in there. Windows are locked."
"We'll still file a report. There should already be one on file under a Miss Mai Taniyama." Ayako gestured for the officer to enter the apartment with her. Sitting at the dining table, Ayako gave her statement.
Mai went next, holding tightly onto Naru's hand. He sat beside her as she spoke, offering up details when she overlooked something or other. Afterward, the officer gave the usual speech about locking up at night and possibly investing in a home security system before leaving.
Monk arrived as the officer was leaving. He rushed to hug Ayako. "Are you okay? Did they find him?"
Mai shook her head, her eyes on the dreaded yellow flowers. Kimoi chose primroses, this time. "No...He left the flowers on the doorstep. I'm not sure they're taking this seriously, either."
Naru glared at nothing. "He knows where you live. That should be enough."
"You know how law enforcement can be. They want a neon sign, pointing at the suspect." Ayako rested her head on Monk's shoulder as soon as he sat beside her. "We're going to have to move, Mai. I don't feel safe being here, anymore."
Mai's face crumbled. "I'm so sorry...this is all my fault."
"Don't say that. It's that creep's fault and his alone." Ayako reached across the table, to take Mai's hand. "Besides, we'll need a bigger apartment when the baby gets here. This one only has two bedrooms."
"Finding a suitable apartment could take weeks. What will you do until then?" Monk asked.
"Nonsense. I've got plenty saved up. I can find us something by the end of the week. I just need to get to looking."
Mai felt her head spin a little. She rested it on Naru's shoulder. He put a comforting hand on the back of her head. "You're sleep deprived. Go to bed."
"He's right, Mai. Both of you try to get some rest. I'll be staying on the couch." Monk stood, helping Ayako to her feet.
"You'll stay in my room, you dolt." Ayako went to lock up. "You should get home, Naru."
"With your permission, Matsuzaki, I'd like to stay." Naru kept a firm grip on Mai's hand.
Ayako crossed her arms. "And just where do you suppose you'll stay?"
"The sofa looks tolerable."
Ayako sighed. "I suppose one night won't hurt. Mai, you'll remain in your room for the night. You hear me?"
"Of course." Mai blushed, pleased that Naru's agreed to stay over. "Let me make everyone dinner."
Ayako stared at the front door for a second before dragging a dining chair over to prop under the knob. Picking up the flower vase as if it were a deadly snake, she dropped them in the trashcan by her tv. She seemed to relax after that. "Dinner sounds amazing. I was thinking something Italian."
"Coming right up." Mai hurried into the kitchen and got to work. Within an hour, she was sitting plates on the table, containing a pasta dish Ayako prefers and a side of garlic bread.
Monk sniffed the air appreciatively. "You're a good little cook, Mai. Smells amazing."
"Ayako taught me quite a few recipes after I moved in. I also bought cooking books."
Naru raised a brow as a plate was placed in front of him. He took an experimental bite. She smiled, guessing he must like it from his lack of scowl. Mai took a seat next to him and passed around a pot of tea.
"I love going on cases, but I do miss home cooked meals." Ayako smiled in satisfaction as she took a bite.
Mai focused on her own plate. After a pleasant dinner, she went into the kitchen to wash dishes. Naru followed her, gently scooting her out of the way of the sink. Rolling up his sleeves, he took over. Mai smiled. "I can wash them."
"You already cooked. Let me." He kept his eyes on the sink.
Mai touched his arm. "Thank you...for staying. I'm not certain how well I'll sleep, but having you near will help."
"I want you to be safe." Was he simple reply. His brows were heavily furrowed, as if he were thinking about something very intently.
"I am. Ayako will find us a good apartment."
Naru paused after placing a big serving plate in the drying rack. "Move in with me."
She nearly staggered back in surprise. "W-what?"
"You heard me." His hard stare softened somewhat. "Move in with me."
Mai's breathing became uneven. "I...I couldn't! Ayako would kill me!"
Naru turned his attention back to the dishes. "It's up to you in the end. I just hope you'll think about it."
Mai had to lean against the counter. She can hardly believe her ears. He asked her to move into his apartment! How would that even work? Would they have separate rooms or share one? Would this speed up the time frame before they get physical? Is he only asking because of what's happening or does he truly want to live with her?
"If I did..." She wasn't quite sure what to ask, first.
"You would stay in my guest room." He explained. "Up until the point you choose otherwise."
Her face lit up. "You're serious."
"I am."
Mai bit her lip nervously. "It...I don't want us to rush into this because of Kimoi."
"I'm not asking you to come to bed with me, Mai. You will have your own space."
She blushed, again. "I understand...May I think about it?"
"Yes, I advise you to. You don't have to give me an answer this minute." Naru finished up the dishes and dried his hands on a dish towel.
Returning to the living room, they found Ayako and Monk had retired to her room. Mai went about grabbing things from the linen closet, prepping the couch for Naru. When it looked fairly comfortable for sleep, Naru sat down.
Mai stared at him. Moving in together...it's not an unpleasant idea. It would give her the opportunity to spend more time with him. That also brings up the question of whether there's such a thing as too much time. He could get sick of having her around all the time. She could get sick of him. Naru's not nearly so difficult to be around as he used to be, especially for Mai, but even she needs time to herself.
But, the chance this presents to strengthen their relationship is making this a very tempting choice. To reach the next stage. Whether that's a physical relationship or something deeper emotionally or both. To see Naru first thing in the morning, hair mussed, in search of tea to wake him up. And to see him last thing in the evening, before going to sleep. To learn about the little things she's yet to learn about him.
Mai tried to clear her thoughts. She's been standing, staring at him for a good minute. "I do really like the idea."
"Of living with me?" He offered his hand. Mai took it, letting him pull her to sit on the couch beside him.
She nodded. "But..."
"But?"
"What if you get annoyed with me?" She blushed.
He smirked. "I think it would take active effort on your part to annoy me."
She couldn't help but smile. "I have no plans to annoy you."
"Then, don't concern yourself with it. Make your decision in your own time, without worrying about whether I'll regret offering."
Looking up at him, Mai kissed him. "I better get to sleep before Ayako finds me out here. There are spare toothbrushes under the cabinet in the bathroom."
Naru reached up to run his thumb along her bottom lip. "Sleep well."
"You, too." Mai stood up and walked to her room, her eyes continually darting to him as she did.
When she was shut in her dark room, the fear she felt when she first noticed the flowers returned. She turned on the light and checked her room. Under the bed, in the closet. Making sure that her window was locked, she shut the curtains and got ready for bed, keeping her pepper spray on her bedside table.
"It's a gorgeous three bed, 2 bath apartment in Minato district, just a fifteen minute drive from SPR. It has such a French vibe to it. As soon as I saw the pictures, I rushed to go take a tour. I signed the paperwork already." Ayako gushed. "It puts our current place to shame. It's also in a gated community. Only those with the code can even get to the building's main doors, much less enter and locate our apartment. It's perfect."
Mai looked over the brochure, amazed. "On site security, too. It sounds amazing."
"Not just that, but a pool, a cardio gym, a weight room and a yoga room. It's on the same block as a bunch of nice shops with a park right across the street."
Mai smiled as convincingly as she could. She still hasn't made her decision on whether to take Naru up on his offer, yet. And she definitely hasn't mentioned it to Ayako. She'd rip Naru's head off.
"And look at this." Ayako showed Mai the internet listing for the unit. "This adorable little room will be the nursery. It's closer to my room, so the baby hopefully won't wake you in the night."
That's another thing that has Mai hesitating. If she does move in with Naru, Ayako won't have her around to help as much. She could visit everyday, of course, but it wouldn't compare to having a live-in helping hand.
"It really is a beautiful apartment." Mai agreed.
"This will be your room." Ayako scrolled down the page. "It has plenty of closet space and this sweet little built in bookshelf that you can decorate."
It's getting close to time for them to move in. If Mai's going to make a decision, it will have to be soon. Naru will need advance notice and Ayako will want to know before moving in.
"Will Monk move in?" Mai asked.
"Why?" Ayako looked startled. She seemed to think about it. "Not yet. Maybe, at some point. But, we didn't even define what our relationship was until quite recently. I just don't think we're there, yet."
Ayako rubbed her flat stomach, looking a little perturbed.
"I'm sorry to ask. I was just curious."
"It's a valid question. I'll need to think about it, eventually. But, for now, I'm content with how things are."
"You don't mind me staying?"
Ayako smiled. "Is that what this is all about? Of course, I don't mind. You're welcome to stay as long as you want. I want you to be comfortable in this new apartment. It's your home, too."
"And when I eventually move out?" It took all Mai's courage to even pose the question.
"Well, when that day comes, I'll be sad to see you go, but happy that you've found your way in life. Why all this talk of the living situation? You're not nervous about having to live with a baby, are you? I swear, I won't expect you to get up in the night or anything."
Mai stared at the computer listing for the apartment, too embarrassed to look at Ayako. "It's not that. I love living with you and I'm sure it'll be great having a baby around. It's just...I have another option that I'm considering."
"Oh?" She looked surprised. "Is it Kuroda? I could see you two moving in together. But, I figured you would wait until you leave for college in the Fall. You should save up your money for when you leave for England."
"I haven't even gotten accepted to the school, yet."
"You will." Ayako hugged her. Letting go, she went back to scrolling through the pictures. "I have to admit, I'm not crazy about you not living with me while this Kimoi guy is on the loose."
Mai chickened out. "You're right. It was just a thought. I really do like the apartment you picked out."
"If you decide it's not what you want, just let me know. You know I'll support you, whatever you decide."
"I know you will." She smiled, grateful to have Ayako in her life.
Mai instinctively reached towards her pocket, as if to grab her phone, only to remember Naru has it. She sighed. Getting up, Mai went to change over the laundry from the washer to the dryer.
Someone knocked on the door. Startling, Mai spun around. Ayako held up her phone, showing a text. "It's Naru. Answer it, will you?"
Relaxing, Mai hurried to unlock the door. Naru was waiting with a small bag in his hand. She stood on her toes and kissed him.
"This is for you." Naru stepped inside and sat the bag on the coffee table. Unzipping it, he handed her a black rectangle with silicone grips on both side.
"What is it?" Mai looked it over.
Taking it from her, he removed the cap and flicked a small switch on the side. Pressing the button on top, volts of electricity zapped around two nodes. "It's a taser."
Mai paled. "Is that really necessary?"
"Yes." Naru answered at the same time as Ayako.
Ayako stood up. "You need to consider your safety. We can't be around you at all times. This will give me peace of mind. So, please take it."
Mai sighed. Accepting the taser, she flicked the safety back on and put the cap back in place. Unwinding the attached cord, she put it around her neck. "Is this it?"
"Nearly." Naru handed Mai back her phone. "It's programmed to send a copy of all texts from Kimoi to me."
"I can have it back?" Mai perked up. Not having a phone is more inconvenient than she thought it would be.
"I've been informed that I'm overdoing it by keeping your phone for you." Naru sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose for a second. "Just don't upset yourself too much by reading the messages he sends."
Mai had been contemplating looking through her messages as soon as he handed the phone back. She frowned. "How many has he sent?"
"He averages about two a day."
"While you're here, come look at the apartment Mai and I are moving into." Ayako told Naru.
He shared a look with Mai. His subtle change in expression said it all. 'You haven't told her'.
"I'd better get going."
"Already?" Mai couldn't help but pout.
"You're welcome to come with me for this next stop." Naru smirked.
Grinning, Mai hurried to put on her shoes and grab her purse. Putting her phone and the taser in it, she waved to Ayako and left the apartment. When they were settled into the car, Mai looked at him. "Lately, I can't even go near the door without Ayako freaking out. Why did she let me go with you?"
"I already cleared where I'd be taking you when I texted."
"And where's that?"
"There's a case I'm considering. I want to see the house before I take it."
They drove quite a ways, passing through all of Shibuya district. They slowed down as they reached a section of residential houses. The further they went, the older the houses were, the more traditional. Naru parked in front of a very large one surrounded by a wooden fence. Getting out of the car, they approached.
Through the gate, Mai could see just how truly massive the house was. It's even bigger than the Shimizu Onsen they investigated. It must have twelve or more rooms.
"This potential client is a Mister Torappu. He inherited this stately home after the death of his paternal grandfather. He attempted to live here, but quickly discovered that it's haunted. He's offered a substantial sum for our services."
"We don't usually visit the houses before taking cases."
"Consider this a consultation. I want your opinion on the house before we take it. I can't put my finger on it, but I'm certain this particular case will give us trouble."
Naru pushed on the gate, opening it. Taking Mai's hand, he led her up the pathway, towards the main doors. As they walked, she shut her eyes, taking in the energy around her. She felt...nothing.
"It seems like a very quiet house. Perhaps, if I were to go inside."
"That isn't an option unless we take the case. Do you feel anything?"
Mai looked up at the old house, her eyes searching. She felt a sudden chill deep inside her. It caused goosebumps to cover most of her body. Shivering, her mind raced for an explanation. Was it a genuine feeling connected to a haunting or some deeper part of her brain warning her of danger to come?
"I feel...like I'm being watched. I can't explain it. It feels so invasive." Mai took a step back.
Naru took her hand. "Let's go."
He didn't have to ask her twice. She readily fled the property, getting right back in the car. It took until they had driven a bit for her to calm back down. "Sorry...I just...I don't like that house."
"You said the same about the last case."
"I had a reason not to like that house." Mai frowned. "This...it feels like some part of my brain is on the verge of panicking, just being on the property."
"If we took the case, would you be up for it?"
She thought very carefully. "I suppose...If I had a charm to carry around or something, I could stand it."
"Matsuzaki would see to that."
Mai realized as they returned to Shibuya district that they were heading in the opposite direction of Ayako's apartment. "Where are we going?"
"I need something at the office. It will only take a minute."
Naru parked and got out of the car, locking it behind him. Mai fiddled with her phone while she waited. She considered putting on some music from her player, but didn't know how Naru would feel about it. His music tastes seem to lean heavily into classical.
Mai looked up as an engine revved into the parking lot. Someone on a motorcycle zipped into the parking lot and circled the car. Sliding a stop, he hopped off the bike. He was dressed head to toe in black leather and was wearing a helmet with the visor down. Marching towards Mai, he rapidly banged on the window of the car. She screamed. The person swung back their fist and slammed it onto the glass, trying to break it.
She covered her face as the glass shattered. It was then that she saw the person was wearing some kind of metal knuckle guard built into his gloves. Reaching into the busted window, he grabbed Mai and tried to drag her out of the car. She screamed for her life, clawing at the man's arm, unable to reach for the taser in her purse.
"Mai!" Naru bolted down the stairs of SPR and across the parking lot. The masked man let go of Mai and ran back to his bike. He was out of the parking lot and speeding down the street by the time Naru reached her.
Curling up in the passenger seat, she sobbed. Naru stared in the direction the man left for a moment before opening the car door. He carefully pulled Mai out of it, avoiding the broken glass. Lifting her up, he carried her inside. Sitting her on her desk, he shut and locked the door. He looked her over, his eyes scanning every inch of her.
"That was..." She tried to speak, but her voice came out hoarse.
"Kimoi." Naru finished for her. Satisfied that she wasn't injured, he took a step back.
Mai reached out and grabbed him before she could stop herself. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him in for a tight hug. He hugged her back. "H-he..."
"You're safe." Naru took one of the hands wrapped around her and put it on the back of her head.
"I tried to reach the taser..." She sniffed.
"Don't worry about that." He murmured in her ear. His voice soothed her.
Not letting go of her, Naru pulled out his phone and called Lin, informing him of what happened. He showed up within ten minutes.
"There's no sign of anyone." Lin told Naru.
"We have cameras. Pull up the footage and make a copy for the police report. We'll have to call them."
Mai pulled back a bit. "We have cameras?"
"I had them installed after the first flowers showed up." Naru looked over her face before stopping to stare in her eyes. "I'll call Matsuzaki and Takigawa. Just stay here."
Mai nodded. After necessary calls were made, Naru took the time to contact a repair company about his car. Mai hopped off the desk and wandered into the kitchen, in need of tea. She made a full pot, as well as a pot of coffee for Lin. Something tells her everyone is about to come here.
The next hour was spent talking to the police and filling out further reports. Watching the footage of her near abduction over again made Mai's body seize up. She had to bury her face in Naru's shoulder. When they left, Ayako and Monk were finally able to fuss over Mai. It took a lot to reassure Ayako that she's uninjured and convincing Monk not to set traps in the parking lot, in case Kimoi returned.
Mai was hugged more than she ever has been in a single day. As the sun started to set, Ayako ushered Mai out to her own car. Naru, Monk and Lin made a barricade around her as they crossed the darkening parking lot. As soon as she was safely buckled in the car, Monk climbed in the back.
Ayako got into the driver's seat, her expression somber. "That's it. You're taking self defense classes."
Mai didn't argue. It's not a bad idea. "Okay."
Naru hesitated to leave her side. Ayako glared at Naru. "She was in your care. Why did you leave her alone?"
Naru looked down. Mai took his hand. "He was just inside for a literal minute. I was safely locked in the car. Kimoi...he had some sort of brass knuckle and broke the window."
Ayako sighed heavily. "I get that...Let's get home."
"I'll be staying until you move into the new apartment." Monk pat Mai's shoulder. "You've got nothing to worry about."
Mai looked up at Naru. His eyes were unreadable as he looked back at her. His jaw was locked, causing tension all the way down into his neck. Standing upright, he shut the car door. Ayako drove off after that.
As Mai attempted to go to sleep, tears filled her eyes. This is a nightmare...There's nowhere she's safe. Kimoi will just keep coming after her. At SPR, at her home. She has to literally move, hoping he won't find her new address.
And Naru...she can tell he blames himself. That look he gave her...it made her want to not leave him alone. He's alone right now, no doubt. Who will protect him?
Mai rolled over and sobbed into her pillow. She wants this all to end...For Kimoi to be caught and put in jail, so she can go on with her life. So she can move in with Naru, not because she feels threatened, but because she wants to. She wants her life back.
She stared down at her bracelet from Naru, finding comfort in it. The blue sapphire reminded her of his eyes. She hugged her pillow, wishing it were him.
It took three solid days before Mai felt safe enough to leave the apartment, even with Ayako and Monk escorting her. Her traditional date nights with Naru would have to be put on hold for the foreseeable future. The only place she can even see him is at work.
On the morning of the fourth day, Monk took Mai into Shibuya district, to a martial arts studio where a private room had been set aside. There, she met up with Naru and Lin.
"We'll be meeting here every day, from eleven till noon." Monk explained. "You'll learn Judo from me."
"And kung fu from Lin and myself." Naru added.
Mai looked at him in surprise. "You know kung fu?"
"Lin insisted I be able to protect myself from a young age." Naru held out his hand for Mai. She took it. "Are you ready?"
Taking a deep breath, she nodded. "Yeah."
Abruptly letting go of her hand, Naru backed up and let Monk begin the lessons. For the next half hour, Mai was put through the basics of Judo. Nothing especially complicated. Just the stances and a few moves good for blocking attacks.
Naru went next. Teaching her a beginning stance, he held a hand out. "Now, attack me."
Mai hesitated. "I can't do that!"
"Now, Mai."
Scrunching up her face, she let out a startling noise and ran at him. He managed to trip her and send her flat on her back. Monk snickered. "Not very graceful, Mai."
Getting a little irritated, Mai stood back up. "Let me try, again."
Her next attempted attack ended the same way. By the end of their time in the private practice room, Mai's whole body was aching. She practically limped to the entryway, where their shoes were waiting.
"It was a great first try." Monk tried to comfort her.
She swatted his hand away. "Then, why do I feel like hell?"
"Because you actually tried." Naru supported her weight while she slipped on her shoes. Out in the parking lot, they headed for their cars. Mai was surprised to see Naru's car completely repaired. You couldn't even tell the window was ever broken.
"May I spend some time with you?" Mai asked Naru.
He looked away. "Not today. I'll see you tomorrow, for your next session."
Her expression fell. "Okay."
Naru gave her hand one last squeeze before getting in his car with Lin and driving off. Monk helped Mai into the car before running around to the driver's seat. "You okay?"
Mai sniffed. "He hasn't been to see me since it happened. This was the first time I've gotten to see him in three days and it was in a group. I just need some time with him."
"I'm sure he has his reasons."
"For avoiding being alone with me? That's what he's doing." Mai leaned her head against the car window as they drove off.
"The last time you were alone with him, you were nearly kidnapped. That's a lot for anyone to take in, even Naru. Give the guy some time."
Mai nodded, a little embarrassed. Monk is right. She's making this all about her. Naru must be dealing with a lot. This whole experience must be very difficult on him, the same way it is on her. She just needs to be patient.
When Mai was returned home, she found Ayako up and packing. Mai had spent the past few days doing the same. Ayako handed Mai an empty box. "Put the rest of your clothes in that."
"Will do." Mai winced as she tried to hobble to her room.
Ayako frowned. "What did they do to you at that studio. You look like you're in pain."
"I am, a bit." Mai sat the box down and stretched her arms.
"Forget packing. Just take a hot bath. After you're done, we can see about your room."
"I can help you. You shouldn't be overworking yourself." Mai tried to kneel in front of the box Ayako was working on. She was promptly shooed away.
"I'm not fragile, Mai. Take your bath. I and the baby will be fine."
Giving up, Mai did as she was told. She soaked in the hot water for a long while, appreciating the relief it brought to her aching muscles. Afterward, she felt much better and was able to help with the packing.
"We'll be taking the case." Naru told Mai as soon as she came into work.
"At that one house you showed me?"
"Yes." Naru tried to duck back in his office. Mai waved to Kuroda and followed Naru, shutting the door behind her. She waited until he turned around to hug him.
"I hope you're okay, Naru."
"Why wouldn't I be?" He hugged her back.
"Sunday, when Kimoi attacked..." Mai didn't know how to continued. She looked up at Naru.
"I failed to protect you." He said it softly.
Mai shook her head. "You're the reason he didn't take me, Naru. I want to thank you for that."
"He never should have been given the chance." Naru glared at the floor.
"Is that why you've been avoiding me?"
"I haven't been avoiding you."
"You have, Naru." She took his hands, holding them tightly. "You've convinced yourself that what happened is somehow your fault. It isn't. You are the reason I'm standing here, safe."
Her words didn't seem to do much to comfort him. Regardless, he leaned down to kiss her. "If anything ever happened to you..."
He stopped, his glare getting worse. It fizzled out and was replaced with a more passive expression. Mai tried to get him to meet her eyes. "So, about the case...tell me the particulars."
Naru let out a silent breath. "Right. We'll be leaving for the case on Friday. The van is too recognizable, so you'll be in Matsuzaki's car, as well as Takigawa. I'll ride in the van with Lin, Miss Naoko and Father Brown."
"The house is really big, considering it's in the middle of Tokyo. What do you know about the owner?"
"Mister Torappu is a bit of a recluse, who seems to have made most of his money through stock trading. He's fifty-five, widowed with one adult son."
She nodded along, but couldn't shake the uneasy feeling she first felt when she saw that house. "I know I must sound crazy, Naru, but there's just something about that house that I don't like. Don't get me wrong, I'll still work the case. It's just...I don't know."
"Speaking of the house." Naru circled his desk and sat down, sorting through the papers on his desk. "I have the schematic. It's a three story residential that's been around since the late Meiji period. It has twelve bedrooms, a library, two tea rooms and a large banquet room. The bedrooms are divided into four wings, two on each of the upper floors."
Mai looked over the blueprint. "It really is massive."
"It's a well preserved historic building. We'll need to work using our generators, since there's no electricity. There is running water, thankfully."
Mai grimaced. "It sounds like we'll be under strict instructions for this case."
"Normally, I'd pass on something of this nature. But, the owner is determined to retain our services and is offering above our usual fees. He intends to sell the house for a significant amount of money and needs to know nothing will jeopardize the sale."
Mai accepted a stack of papers from Naru, for use in making the case file. "I better inform Kuroda."
Mai left his office and returned to her desk. While she worked, she filled Kuroda in. Around noon, she stopped to make some lunch in the kitchen. She carried a plate to Lin's door and handed it to him as he exited for his smoke break. Bringing Naru his, she sat down to eat.
She was nearly done when she got a text from Kimoi.
Message:
So close and yet so far. You playing hard to get only increases my admiration of you. Let's try this dance, again. Soon. -Kimoi
Mai lost her appetite. Sitting her food aside, she rested her head on her desk. Naru opened his office door with a clack. He headed straight for Lin's door. The two spoke in hushed tones. Mai didn't even try to hear. She knows they're talking about her and the message that was just sent.
Emerging, Naru came by Mai's desk and put a hand on her back. She didn't even bother to look up at him. "Do you need me to take you home?"
She nodded. Naru handed off Mai's plate to Kuroda. Mai forced herself to get up and collect her purse. They left the office with Lin watching from the stairs. When they were safely driving away, Mai relaxed a little.
"I'm sorry." She whispered.
"Don't be." Naru took her hand. "This will be over, soon. If the police can't locate him, we will. Lin has a lead. He's traced the messages across two different burner phones. But one message came from a personal number. As soon as we can trace that, we'll have him."
Mai perked up. "Really?"
"It's not as simple as it sounds to trace a number, especially without the proper equipment. If the police would do their job, he'd already be in handcuffs."
A motorcycle zoomed by the car, turning right up ahead. Mai froze. She didn't realize she as squeezing the hell out of Naru's hand until he retracted it to flex his fingers. He gave it back after that.
"I'm sorry. I don't know why that happened."
"It's understandable that you have some trauma surrounding motorcycles, considering what happened."
Mai flinched. Trauma. A mental scar she might never heal from. Memories so painful, it causes a physical reaction. There's nothing that can take that away, no matter how bad she wishes it were that easy. She's frightened...of motorcycles, of parking lots, of being alone. The list feels never ending.
Tears filled her eyes. She glared through him. "I hate him...Kimoi. I hate him so much."
"So do I." Naru parked in front of Ayako's apartment. A minute later, Monk came out to fetch her. When the car door was opened, Naru spoke to Monk. "Make sure she eats something after she sleeps."
Mai didn't fight Monk as he pulled her from the car and sat her on her feet. She followed him inside, up to the apartment, where Ayako was packing up one of the very last boxes. After tonight, they'll be moving. A couple days after that, they'll be taking their upcoming case.
Ayako put a hand to Mai's forehead. "You're warm. Get to bed. I haven't packed your bedding, yet."
Mai stepped forward and hugged Ayako, unable to articulate how grateful she is for her and all her friends. Ayako hugged her back, then herded her to her room. Mai got into bed and rolled over. It took hardly any time at all for her to pass out. When she did, she was met with only nightmares.
The two days of unpacking at the new apartment were a joy in comparison to today. Waking up early, everyone got in their respective cars and headed to the client's house just outside Shibuya district. When they pulled through the gate, Monk whistled.
"It's massive. I've not seen many houses this big in the city."
Mai shivered. That feeling of unease is back. Swallowing heavily, she ignored the knots in her stomach and got out of the car. Naru came up to her, taking her hand. He looked over her head, at Ayako. "Were you followed?"
"No. Just usual traffic."
Looking down at Mai, Naru gave her a meaningful look. It helped put her more at ease. She attempted a smile for him. It must've been very unconvincing based on his expression. "You haven't been sleeping."
"All I do is sleep." Mai glared at the ground.
"There will be time to rest during the case. Just head inside and I'll help Matsuzaki and Takigawa unload the equipment."
"Where's the client?" She relaxed a little.
"He won't be meeting us. He'll be away on business for the next week. He hopes to return to a cleansed house."
She nodded. Pushing some hair out of her eyes, she walked around Naru and headed inside. Stopping to remove her shoes in a little entryway, she stepped into a large foyer with a staircase directly in front of them, two hallways on either side. Just at the top of the stairs, Mai could see a sliding door with a forest mural painted on it. Stepping onto a dated looking rug, it sent a cloud of dust up. She coughed.
Monk met her in the foyer. "This place looks ancient. I can't believe anyone lives here."
"Mister Torappu owns, but does not live in the house." Naru explained.
"Couldn't he have had the place cleaned a bit? It's bad enough we'll be sleeping on the floor." Ayako handed a box off to Naru before stretching herself out, twisting this way and that. "I'm claiming worker's compensation if I have to see my chiropractor after this."
"Please, let me help." John rushed inside and took the box from Naru.
Kuroda came in next, toting a smaller box. Using the blueprint, Naru led the way down the right hall, into one of the sitting rooms. They set their equipment in there. Next came the generators. When everything was hooked up and working, they spent some time exploring, trying to choose the best locations for the cameras. This proved harder than they thought.
"I'm not getting any readings." Monk scratched the back of his head.
"Not all houses register on the equipment. Mai, what do you feel?"
Stepping back into the hall, Mai went to check out the sliding doors at the top of the stairs. She found a big library, devoid of any books. Floor to ceiling shelves lined every wall, containing nothing but cobwebs. "I can't explain it..."
"Try." Ayako put a hand on her shoulder.
She pursed her lips. "I feel the same thing I did when I first saw the house. It feels invasive. Like I'm being watched from every angle. It makes me feel sick."
"It wouldn't feel like that if the house weren't haunted. I guess we have that going for us." Monk shrugged.
"This feels different. I know what a haunting feels like. This is...something I've never felt before." Mai touched one of the bookshelves. A lone spider hurried to escape her up its web. Grimacing, she stepped back.
Walking around Monk, Ayako and Kuroda, she headed downstairs. An awful thought gnawed at her. What if everything that's been happening with Kimoi has damaged her psychic abilities? Trauma does that...it causes real damage to the brain. If that happens, what use will she be on cases? What use will she be to anyone at SPR?
Mai abruptly looked up as she reached the first floor. She looked around the empty room. She really does feel watched...That may be all she'll have to go on for a while. She can't spend the whole case avoiding everybody. She needs to throw herself into working on it.
Setting her jaw, Mai returned to the base, where Naru, Lin and John were waiting. The cameras they'd placed had their feed visible on the six monitors.
"It's the same in every room of the house." Mai told them. "A constant feeling of unease. Like the very walls are watching and assessing me."
"Our equipment isn't picking anything up." Naru furrowed his brows. "If and when we get some sign of activity, we'll focus our cameras to those areas and put the rest away. We need to pick and choose what we allow to run. The generators can only take so much."
John offered Mai a thermos of tea. Taking a seat at the low table in the middle of the room, Mai knelt on the tatami mats and accepted it.
The rest of the day was a bust, despite everyone staying up past midnight, there was no sign of activity. Taking turns to change in the lone downstairs toilet, everyone rolled out the futons they brought and prepared to get some sleep.
Mai set her futon up by Naru, not caring if anyone else had a problem with it. She slipped into her covers and rolled to face him. He stared back at her, his dark eyes searching for something in hers. In the dim lighting of the electric lantern, he looks almost worried.
Ayako bent down to touch the top of Mai's head on her way to her own futon. "Sweet dreams, Mai."
"Sweet dreams." She whispered before shutting her eyes. She didn't bother to open them again until someone finally turned off the lantern.
The next afternoon, after they'd once again ordered food to eat, they decided to give exploration another try, bringing along their EMF readers. Splitting into groups, Mai headed towards the third floor with Ayako and Monk. Up there, they found all the rooms void of a single furnishing. The floors groaned underfoot, making them question the stability of being up there. They were about to head back down when Mai found something.
She knelt down, to look more closely at the floor in one of the rooms. The floor was even more warped there, with a dark brown stain. "This may be dried blood."
Monk knelt with her and scratched the floor, flaking up some of it. He rubbed the dried substance between his fingers. "Maybe."
"What do we know about the house and its history?" Ayako asked.
"Yasuhara hasn't been able to find out anything besides a general list of births and deaths. No big story that might explain things better. The Torappu family seems to have always been very private." Mai stood upright.
"What if it's an earth spirit?" Ayako suggested. "They can present themselves in various ways."
Monk smirked. "I could've put money on you suggesting that."
Ayako crossed her arms. "You got any better ideas?"
He held his hands up in mock surrender. "No, I guess I don't."
Mai chewed on her lip as she looked around the room. That feeling of unease still hasn't left. Even warding the base last night didn't help it. Leaving Ayako and Monk to bicker, she left the room and walked further down the hall, her eyes on a set of sliding doors directly ahead. They had a faded pattern of waves painted on them. She'd barely managed to touch the doors when Ayako called for her.
"Mai, don't wander off!"
Dropping her hand, Mai turned back around and returned to Ayako and Monk. The three headed back down together.
That night, Mai dreamed she was back on the third floor.
Mai opened her eyes to find her futon laying on the ground of the third floor, in the room with the supposed blood stain. Getting up, she reached for the stain. While she couldn't see anything of note, she could hear the sounds of footsteps, followed by angry voices.
"Dad, can't you see? We're sitting on a goldmine. When this place sells, we'll be able to both retire and live in luxury."
"This house has been in the family for generations! That you would even suggest selling it makes me think less of you. If you ever suggest such a thing again, I'll change my will, so the house goes to your cousin. Just you watch to see if I'm serious."
These words were followed by sounds of a struggle, then a sickening metallic sound. Mai shivered, not quite sure what to make of it. The sound reverberated around the room again and again. Unable to bear it, she covered her ears and fled the room. She stopped as the doors with an ocean motif came into view. She stared, feeling drawn to them.
Walking forward, Mai reached out her hand. She felt determination in her gut, urging her to open the doors. Just as she reached them, the dream faded.
Mai sat up quickly. Looking around the room, she found the sun had risen and everyone else was awake, eating breakfast. She rubbed her eyes, disoriented.
"What time is it?"
"About ten." Monk told her. "We didn't wake you, did we?"
She shook her head. "No...weird dream."
Everyone perked up. Joining them at the table, Mai went over the details she remembered. Naru looked up at the ceiling. "That room you mentioned is locked. I couldn't get the door opened, so left it be. I'll try to contact Mister Torappu. We may get his permission to force our way through the doors."
The idea of doing that sent a wave of unease through Mai she couldn't quite explain. The boldness she felt in her dream was gone. She wants nothing to do with that room. She tried to settle herself.
"I may be able to get the doors open without damaging anything." Monk said. "It's an old house with traditional sliding doors. There's a hack for them."
"Best we wait for Mister Torappu. If you did break something in this historic house, the restoration costs would be staggering." Naru took a long sip of tea. He stared down at the cup, clearly disappointed. Mai got up and went to kneel in front of their electric kettle. Boiling some fresh water, she made Naru his preferred tea.
He looked surprised when she handed it to him. She smiled tiredly. "You never do seem to enjoy anyone else's tea."
He flashed a very brief smile before taking a sip of the new cup.
"Today, I want to try something a little risky." Ayako said. "We should try a more antagonistic approach."
"Antagonize the spirits out of hiding?" Monk raised a brow. "That sounds like it could backfire spectacularly."
"Oh, you're no fun. Come on. Let's just try something besides sitting around, waiting for a sign."
Monk reached over to put a hand on Ayako's belly. "Try to remember you're pregnant and should be careful."
"Stop treating me like I'm delicate, you oaf." Ayako scowled at her takeout bento box. "I'm not planning anything crazy. But, what if we tried the isolation method, for starters?"
"Explore the house separately?" Monk calmed down. "I suppose. We could try it once during the afternoon and again, once the sun sets."
Kuroda looked up from her food nervously. "You mean I have to go off by myself?"
"This house has shown no signs of activity. It's a safe enough environment for you to practice solo investigation." Mai pat Kuroda on the back. "We've been over what you need to do. Now's the time to try it."
"That's the spirit." Ayako smiled.
After lunch, everyone got up and took a flashlight. Even during the day, with as much dust as there is caking the windows, some of the rooms can be dark. Mai separated from the group and headed for the old kitchen in the back of the downstairs right wing. Shining her flashlight around, she tried to ignore the anxiety starting to surface.
This is the first time she's truly been alone in quite a while. Certainly since the near kidnapping. Swallowing heavily, Mai walked through the kitchen. She paused at the sliding door leading to the backyard. Opening it, she could see a large shed further back on the property.
Imagining the bugs she might run into investigating it, Mai shut the door and left the kitchen. She headed into the pantry next. She paused. Food. Canned goods. She checked a few dates, finding them all expired.
Backing up to leave the pantry, Mai accidentally caught her bracelet on a rotted shelf, ripping it off. She gasped, scrambling to grab it off the floor. She got down on her knees, searching desperately. Locating it, she held it to her chest, her heart hammering.
She got up and hurried out of the pantry, back to the base. She found Ayako. "Hey. I was about to head out. Find anything?"
"My bracelet's clasp broke." Mai sniffed. Something about Naru's gift to her has been so comforting to Mai, as of late. Nearly losing it had shaken her.
"Aw. Let me see." Taking the bracelet, Ayako looked it over. "The ring just came loose on the clasp side. We can have it repaired after the case. You should leave it in here, so it doesn't get lost."
Mai sighed. "You're right. I honestly shouldn't have worn it for the case at all. It's too precious."
She sat it down on the table. Heading back out, Mai stuck by Ayako until they got to the second floor, then split off.
The afternoon was a total bust. Not even Kuroda, who managed to startle herself, saw or heard a thing. Returning to the base, everyone prepared to order dinner, plans to resume their independent investigations as soon as they've eaten.
Mai froze. Her bracelet. "Ayako, it's gone!"
"What's gone?" Naru spun around.
"My bracelet! The one you gave me!" The panic returned.
Naru grabbed Mai's hand, pulling her to him. "It will turn up. We're the only ones who have been here."
"Maybe, a spirit took it." Monk suggested. Everyone gave him weird looks. "What? It's possible. As a child, I swore there was a ghost hiding my toys. They'd disappear and turn up a week later, at the foot of my bed."
Ayako ignored Monk, turning to Mai. "We left it right here, then went to investigate. Maybe, you put it too close to the edge of the table and it fell on the floor. Let's look."
Getting on their hands and knees, Mai and Ayako searched around. They even lifted up some of the tatami mats. It was nowhere to be found. "It's like it vanished..."
Mai fell back on her bottom, her eyes vacant. Looking truly worried, Ayako fretted over her. "Hey, it'll be alright. Like Naru said. It'll turn up."
Mai got up and walked out of the room, unable to take Ayako's reassurances. Her eyes welled up with tears, practically blinding her. She followed her sense of direction towards the main doors, needing some fresh air. Opening it, she stepped outside and took several deep breaths. She wiped at her eyes.
A gust of wind whipped her hair around. She turned her head to keep her hair from getting in her mouth, her eyes settling on the large old shed. Something on the shed was glinting in the light of the setting sun. She slowly approached, walking further down the drive. The closer she got, the more clear the glint became.
Mai balked. It's her bracelet! It's hanging from the latch of the shed! Grabbing it, she held it to her chest tightly before putting it in her pocket. She took a step back, confused. How the hell did it get out here? Maybe, there really is a spirit...
The hairs on Mai's arms stood on end as the wind returned, rattling the shed door. The old, rusted lock looked about ready to fall off. She rested her hand against it, to steady it, only for the lock to actually fall off. The shed door swung open, nearly hitting her in the head. She hopped backwards just in time.
She quirked a brow at the sight of something or other in the center of the shed, covered with a dirty old tarp. She wished she'd remembered her flashlight. A large part of her hesitated at the entrance to the shed, scared to go inside alone. She glared into the darkness.
Don't be afraid. If she becomes too afraid to do her job, Kimoi wins. Squaring her shoulders, she marched into the shed and grabbed the tarp, ripping it away and letting it fall to the ground.
Her legs gave out from under her. She fell to her knees, her mind racing. Underneath the tarp, she found a motorcycle. Solid black, with shiny silver trim, just like the one Kimoi drives. Her heart hammering so heavily, she couldn't hear anything else. Her breathing became shallow, her body developed a layer of sweat. She was so dazed, she didn't hear the footsteps behind her until she was hit over the head.