Cherry Red Flight

by JosElynne

SIOC fic. What happens when an SI is reborn as the younger sister of Akai Shuuichi and Haneda Shuukichi and the older sister of Sera Masumi? Two shots that morphed into multi-chapters.Spoilers for episode 1018 and Chapter 1037 onwards. If you're not updated on the anime or manga, read at your own risk.

7. What Happens in New York

Beta used: Grammarly.
Disclaimer: Meitantei Conan and Harry Potter doesn't belong to me.

Guys, sorry for the long wait. This version if the fifth one I made. I was excited for this fic to catch up with the series but I want to include the New York scene. The next chapter might include the Roller Coaster Case. Thank you for tuning in!

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As months and years passed by, I became increasingly anxious about what was happening around the Beika district. I've distanced myself from the media as far away as I can in the past, but since work now requires me to be in the media, it's proving difficult. Bloomsbury announced me during the first signing event for Deathly Hallows. It was supposed to happen in England as my first official signing event. They plan to show a short film about the history and making of the series. But I requested that we do it in Japan, to the delight of Seizansha, my Japanese publisher.

They even rented a whole theatre and made it look similar to Comic-Con. I haven't been at one, but I saw videos of it when the cast of The Avengers was announced in my previous life. The actors sit on a long table facing the crowd. The crowd asks questions, and the actors answer them. Seizansha's version is the same. Yusaku-sensei, my English, American, and Japanese publisher, will be on the panel and hosted by Takayama Minami. I only realised why the name was so familiar when I met her backstage. The crowd is a mix of local and international fans of Harry Potter, along with the media from around the world. The reactions were mixed when I was introduced as the author, JL Roberts.

My life now consists of book signing events, book readings, interviews, promotional tours, and never-ending meetings. I'm sick and tired of people asking if I'm the one who wrote it. Maybe I'm just a ghostwriter taking all the credit, which, in my personal opinion, is halfway true. Harry Potter wasn't technically my idea. It was written by somebody else from my previous life. However, the Harry Potter books now are written by me with a few differences from the original.

My publisher and editor came to rescue me from accusations because they recorded and documented our meetings, recorded our brainstorming with Yusaku-sensei, and even filmed me signing the first printing of one hundred books of Philosopher's Stone. I did wonder why my editor insisted I draw the entirety of Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and Hogwarts again so he could capture the process on camera. I just realised they were doing a documentary when it was played during the first signing event. I would have presented myself properly on the recordings if I had known. Or at least take a shower and fix my hair. Some clips showed me drawing Hogsmeade while I had Sailor Moon hair with pencils and paintbrushes stuck on it. At least they captured me wearing a decent pair of trousers and an oversized jumper while oil painting a 60 X 100 inches canvas of Hogwarts while Hogsmeade is peaking on the lower left side. It's the same painting I made in my previous life but much bigger. I was proud of my hair that day because I managed to wash and braid my hair that morning after not caring about hygiene for a week because of deadlines. Embarrassed and blushing, I answered questions from the media and fans, and my knowledge of the lore gave them more proof. Yusaku-sensei offered to help with my credibility, but I told him it was time I step up and do this myself. I got a proud smile from him in return.

Oh, yeah. I changed my last name. Shuukichi already changed his name after high school, so I asked his help processing the paperwork and selecting an appropriate last name for me. We had to return to England during my term break to submit the request, as Shuukichi did. I thought Mom would be offended, but she encouraged it, seeing the advantage of a different name as a cover to conceal our identities for protection and distance ourselves from Dad and Shuuichi. It's also why she and Masumi changed their last name to Sera.

The shouts of disbelief from the crowd during my graduation were similar to my announcement as JL Roberts but with more surprise than disbelief. My classmates admitted to me after the ceremony that they knew me as Kudou Masami. They assumed I was related to Yusaku-sensei as I would accompany him to his work. We were also photographed together, and I'm sometimes shown behind Yusaku-sensei in articles or news about him. I admit I didn't correct them and jokingly said that Yusaku-sensei is my Uncle. But I didn't realise they would take my joke seriously. After all these years, I still have sarcasm that the Japanese people don't understand.

"I was thinking of representing red, maybe a phoenix," I remember telling Mom and Shuukichi. We were in Mom's flat, where she lived with Masumi. It's not the same lively apartment we had when we were young, though, as they rented a mews flat behind a row of terrace houses. It's hidden from the main street and tucked at the end of the street. A perfect home for a retired MI6 agent to live in.

We thought of variations of red like vermillion, crimson, and carmine. Masumi came home after school to find us surrounded by takeout boxes of curry and sausage rolls from Greggs. She learned what we were doing and suggested Shuzaku until Shuukichi pointed out that the bird is more of a sparrow or raven than a phoenix. I was slightly disappointed.

"Mou, just write down Okiya, then!" I yelled in frustration. Masumi just looked on in amusement and wrote down the name on the application form. I frowned when I remembered I had to choose the kanji when I returned to Japan. Fun.

If Shuuichi still needs to fake his death and live at the Kudou house under the name Okiya Subaru, no one would question why an unmarried couple lives in the same house. I dreaded that we had to pretend to be a couple to make that happen. If I wasn't reborn as his younger sister, I'd be delighted to play the part.

Shuukichi gave me a weird look when Mom and Masumi completed my paperwork as I nibbled on a piece of naan. I refused to look in his direction when I signed at the bottom. He must have remembered that one profile I gave Shuuichi has a similar name. I didn't offer any answer, which frustrated him more. We had the paperwork submitted that week before returning to Japan, and it wasn't official until a few months before my graduation ceremony.

I celebrated my graduation by lazing around the house and doing nothing except to eat and sleep. I didn't even attend the graduation after-party. Instead, I celebrated with Shuukichi at some izakaya in Akihabara three days after the ceremony. I had such fun and might have drunk myself into an early grave. At least, that's what it felt like the next day. I only drank one glass of wine and one pint of beer (maybe some shots of tequila, but who's keeping tabs), but Shuukichi decided he needed to bring me home. He must have called Shuuichi at some point because I woke up with a massive headache the next morning with a scolding from my eldest brother on the phone. Even though Shuukichi insisted that we go out to drink, I was the one who got scolded by Yusaku-sensei when I came down from my bedroom as I nursed my massive hangover. I'm unsure if he took it seriously, as his moustache twitched in amusement while Yukiko and Shinichi sniggered at me in the background. I learned that day that I have a low tolerance for alcohol.

I didn't talk to Shuukichi for a few weeks after that incident. It felt like he was avoiding me for some reason, but he reached out again and invited me for dinner to celebrate his recent win. I grilled him about his silence, but he only brushed it off awkwardly and said it was due to the stress of the upcoming competition. This is after he told me he feels no stress when it's close to a match. I didn't want to argue, so I accepted his explanation.

Now that I'm home most of the time, Yusaku-sensei and Yukiko have embraced their second honeymoon phase, leaving Shinichi and I alone for longer periods. I may be sleeping until ten, but I did not neglect chores. I ensure Shinichi is well-fed and the house is clean and secure before I plop in front of the TV in the living room. Sometimes, Shinichi would come home from school to see me sleeping on the living room couch. I assumed it was the case as I'd wake up with a note on my forehead. At least he hasn't thought of writing on my face with a permanent marker.

After weeks of lazing around, I returned to reality and started work. It's inevitable as reporters from various TV stations, international and local alike, are stationed outside the Kudo residence. I first thought they were for Yusaku-sensei, so I threw Shinichi into the pack of wolves outside when he left to go to school one morning. He came home later that day, looking harassed with his hair ruffled messily as usual, and told me the reporters were outside because of me. I had to have groceries delivered to the house to cook food for the two of us. I'm so thankful that the store understands my predicament, as they delivered the groceries to the back of the house while the reporters camped at the front.

It's been a year of chaos. I was not used to popularity, but it blared to my face with no warning once my cover was out. I came home one day, tired from another signing event and a meeting with my publisher, to see Yusaku-sensei sitting in the living room, a full tea service on the coffee table with two pots. It's a bit late for a full tea service as it's already nine in the evening, but tea is always welcomed any time of the day.

I threw my bag on the living room floor, sighed heavily, and collapsed on the couch front first. I buried my face in one of Yukiko's pillows and sounded my complaint with a loud groan.

"Otsukaresama deshita." He said amusedly, taking a bite of his digestive.

"You know," my voice is muffled because of the pillow, but I know he can hear me. "I worked as your secretary since I was sixteen, and I've seen what you do first hand. I'd seen you harassed by your editors and reporters but never, in a million years, thought it could also happen to me." I resurfaced from the pillow, unravelling my hair bun and letting it flow down my shoulders and back. I accepted the cup of tea he offered to me. Hmm, Black tea— over brewed. Just the way I like it.

He frowned at me in disgust as I enjoyed my tea. "Why you like drinking over-brewed tea is beyond me. Loose-leaf tea is such a waste on you."

I like bitter tea. Steeping it isn't enough for me, as I like to taste the bitterness more, so I boil it—overboil it. Yusaku-sensei was horrified when I made a pot using the tea he bought from China. "I don't drink coffee that much; it always leaves me feeling jittery. And I don't like mellow-tasting tea. Drinking the bitterness makes me forget deadlines."

Yusaku-sensei just chuckled. "Now you know why Yukiko and I go out of the country for a holiday. It's for destressing but also to escape my editors."

I huffed in annoyance. "I know. I thought I was safe since my publisher's in England, but would you believe they sent my editor's team to live here in Japan because of it?"

"What?"

"Yup," I took a piece of cucumber sandwich from the tray and took a bite. I almost spit it out. Trust Yusaku-sensei to make it authentic by adding Marmite to the cucumber sandwich. "They encouraged me to write another series within the Harry Potter universe even though I told them the contract was only for seven books." I frown into my tea, my mind swirling. "They think they can make me agree if my editor pesters me daily, which is why he moved to Japan. Thank God, the apartment given to him was far from here."

"Hmm," Yusaku-sensei only said. I looked up, and he looked like a canary who found the cream.

"What?" I asked him, suspicious.

"You're refusing to write anything, yet you already have an idea for a story."

"What?" I said again. "No, I don't," I denied.

He just chuckled and smiled at me. "Dear, I'm also a writer. One look at you, and I know you have ideas for a new story. Tell me about it?"

I glared at him but couldn't deny what he said. I definitely have ideas for a second book series.

In JK Rowling's series, only one vampire is named: Sanguini. I wondered if I could explore that side of the lore and already hinted at Stregone Benefico and the Volturi in the books. Reading Harry Potter and Twilight crossover fanfictions is also my guilty pleasure in my past life. Thankfully, Archive of Our Own exists here. I've written fanfiction materials in this life, but only for me to read and enjoy. Besides, I'm unsure if I can write Twilight if Stephanie Meyer's already forming that lore for herself. I got lucky with Harry Potter because I'm a huge fan and know the lore inside and out. And JK Rowling died here before she could think about Harry Potter. I think.

My first idea was to go on a prologue route like they did with Fantastic Beasts, but I'm thinking of making the main plot include the witch burnings, the Statue of Secrecy and the formation of Wizengamot. I do love 16th-century politics and fashion.

My second idea is to focus on America. Scholastic tried hinting at this by asking me questions about the American Ministry of Magic and whether the United States has a wizarding school. Honestly, JK Rowling's only making Ilvermorny the only school in North America is not enough. My headcanon back then was at least five schools spreading across America. However, if I focus on this, it will not be just seven books.

The latest idea I got is Mahoutokoro, the Japanese Wizarding School. I only knew the school's name from JK Rowling's Pottermore, and the information about the school was limited when I first saw it. I teased the existence of wizarding schools around the globe in one interview, and my editor pounced on the information afterwards. This is why they're pestering me to write another book series. The concept of a magical girl in anime and manga is well used in Japan, so the idea of a female Japanese character in the wizarding world is too tempting for them to pass up.

I sipped my tea again but met with nothing. I looked down and didn't realise my cup was empty. I placed my teacup on the table, and Yusaku-sensei filled it up with tea from the second pot, his face still fixed into a wide grin.

I groaned in defeat. "Okay! Okay, I have mulled the idea of a Japanese magical school." He perked up at that, his eyes lighting up with curiosity and excitement. He proposed that idea before, but I was indecisive back then. "I teased that information in an interview anyway, and my editor's already in my face to write about it. But I don't know…"

"You need more time to hash out the details?"

I nodded.

He hummed again. Then, I noticed a bunch of fliers on the coffee table. I picked one up, and it was a flier for an American university. I looked up at him.

He coughed. "Well, Yukiko was offered a role here in Japan for a TV drama, so we will stay for a while. The contract is for a year with a potential renewal, adding another year if the audience liked it." He gave me an amused smile. "I thought you'd like to go abroad and maybe get a master's degree. I have many friends in New York, Hawaii, Rhode Island…"

I didn't let him finish as I hugged him for dear life. "My start as a writer is different than yours," he explained, patting my head as he reciprocated my hug. "You immediately got a best-selling while I was gradually eased into the fame. Granted that no one knew you wrote the books, I assumed correctly that fame is getting on your nerves." He laughed when I tightened my embrace and nodded against his neck. He gently dislodged my arms from his airpipe and settled me beside him. "So I thought you could go abroad and continue your studies while you write your second series. Though this time, no more brainstorming sessions with me." He winked at me playfully.

Bloomsbury, especially my editor, was disappointed when they learned I was leaving. Still, I could tell them that it was only for two years and that I had considered their proposal about a second instalment and working on Hogwarts' school books. They bombarded me with questions, with one closer to the concept of Fantastic Beasts and Quidditch Throughout the Ages, but I refused to say anything else.

I knew Shuuichi would jump at the chance to spend time with me when he learned I was moving to the US for higher education. He tried hiding his excitement, but the protective older brother kicked in. He must have remembered the crimes in the US and insisted that I live with him. I refused. He insisted that I find a school in New York so I'm closer to him. I refused again. He even tried to bully Shuukichi into moving to New York with me. Shuukichi's going places to compete for his crowns and forcing him to live with me full-time for two years would halt his progress. Shuuichi tried to convince me that New York was a good idea by highlighting Broadway to see plays, Times Square during New Year's, and stroll in Central Park during spring. I admit I was swayed a little. He sweetened the deal when he told me he would look for an apartment for me. Hook, line, and sinker.

I gave him the specifications of the apartment I wanted—two bedrooms, so I could use the second bedroom as an office— a washer and dryer inside the apartment, and a balcony is negotiable. Asking for an apartment with a view of Central Park might be pushing it too far, so I told him it doesn't matter if it has a balcony as long as it has a good greenery view. I also sent him a huge cheque. He insisted the apartment would be ready to move in once I arrived.

I admit, I'm unsure if he listed down what I requested.

It was mid-July when I flew to New York and arrived just a little over lunchtime. It took a while for me to find him after I got my luggage from the carousel, but I found him smoking near the exit. His hair is longer than the last time we saw each other, loose and swaying with the wind. His outfit hasn't changed— he's still wearing that grey trench coat with the collar on top of a collared black shirt, trousers, and leather boots. However, instead of his signature black knit cap, he has on the grey fedora hat I gave him for his birthday. He finished his outfit with dark sunglasses. I get the sunglasses, as it's summer, but the trench coat is just out of season. I don't blame the people walking around, as they gave him weird looks. I have on a long spaghetti stray sundress in light blue with a cotton lantern sleeve cardigan over it, a flat-top straw hat, and round sunglasses, which are appropriate for the weather.

Shuuichi-nii-sama, you're supposed to be FBI. Catching the attention of civilians is not something an FBI agent should do. What's wrong with a simple cotton-white shirt and trousers?

He's accompanied by a long-haired woman wearing a dark green business suit and a burly, tall man wearing a tracksuit. He took off his sunglasses and smiled when he saw me. A smiling Akai Shuuichi must not have been the norm as his companions dropped their jaws and followed his line of sight. I waved at him and walked closer, pushing my heavy luggage trolley in front of me.

"How many packs have you smoked?" I scolded him in Japanese, hands on my hips as I approached their group. "Because I refuse to kiss and hug you while you smell like ash."

He ignored me and just tugged me closer to his chest as he threw his cigarette away. "Ack! Get off me! You do smell like ash!" I exclaimed as I pushed him away.

He just sighed. "Nice to see you too, Masami," he greeted me in Japanese.

I inhaled, held my breath, and hugged him tight. I might not like the smell of cigarettes, but a hug from Shuuichi is a treat. He's skinny as bones like the last time we saw each other, and he has bags under his eyes, but he's still my brother.

"I missed you," I whispered in his ear.

"I missed you, too," he smiled.

"You haven't been sleeping," I mildly scolded him, poking the heavy bags under his eyes. "Bad case, I presume?"

"You know I can't tell you anything about my work—"

"It's not like I'm asking for details." I rolled my eyes at him and hit his shoulder lightly. "I'm asking if it's a bad case or not. You know Shuukichi-nii-sama told me to look after you because every time you video call him, you look more like a skeleton than a human."

"I don't need looking after," he grumbled. "I should be looking after you."

I glared at him. "Thinking that you don't need looking after just means you need looking after." I bit my lip. Maybe staying at his apartment might not be a bad idea. I could cook and force-feed him until he gained weight.

Then I remembered the Swedish protein bars from Mean Girls that Cady gave to Regina so she could gain weight. They did exist when a sweet shop created it to commemorate the movie, but only for a limited time. Out of curiosity, I made them before when I found a video of a recipe on YouTube. Thank god Shuuichi likes peanut butter, and despite liking black coffee, he favours milk chocolate. I immediately listed the ingredients to buy them later or tomorrow: crunchy peanut butter, unsalted butter, confectioner's sugar, milk, rolled oats, cocoa powder, almonds, and milk chocolate.

I was broken from my thoughts when someone cleared their throat. I turned to his companions—their jaws still slack and their eyes wide as gold balls. "Erm…"

Shuuichi and I have been talking to each other in Japanese. His companions must be feeling left out because of the foreign language.

Shuuichi cleared his throat and set his face into a neutral expression. He settled me beside him and wrapped my shoulders with his arm. Switching to English, he said, "Right, this is Jodie Starling, and that's André Camel. Guys, this is my younger sister, Masami,"

I thought it was Jodie and Camel. I didn't recognise them. Well, their appearance greatly differs from what I've known of them. Jodi has long hair past her shoulders, and she does not wear eyeglasses. Without the glasses, her baby blue eyes stood out more. In Anime, André Camel doesn't have eyebrows, but in real life, André Camel has them, though they're thin and all over the place. He has a short buzz cut, and I thought he was bald at first. He's sweating a bit like he had just finished a run.

Huh, I thought as I clung to Shuuichi's neck. This is new. I remember that Jodie won't meet André Camel until the Kir Arc. I wondered what changed. Oh yeah, me.

"Masami, you're heavy."

"No, I'm not!" I let go of him to swat at his arm before clinging to his neck again.

Their eyes continued to swerve back and forth between Shuuichi and I. They must be asking themselves if we're really siblings. With my bright, cheerful smile and Shuuichi's brooding exterior, no one would think we are related. It's a reverse reaction whenever people see me with Shuukichi back home. Jodie and André snapped from their shock, and we exchanged greetings. Shuuichi took my carry-on, André took charge of my trolley, and Jodie linked my arms with hers as we walked towards the car.

I told Shuuichi I'd attend New York University so he could look for a nearby apartment. I checked Google Maps and kept in mind the Federal Plaza building and the surrounding areas. So when the street names suddenly looked familiar, I got quieter and quieter. My lips were on a thin line when we arrived at the building, but my face was fixed in a scowl when we entered the apartment Shuuichi found for me.

"Are you serious?" I frowned at Shuuichi. "Really? How is this away from you? The FBI building is two blocks away! And this place is filled with security cameras!" I counted seven in the open living, kitchen, and dining area alone. Granted, the condo was already furnished, and it looked homey. It was also warm when we came inside. Jodie and André followed us and walked from room to room as if they'd been there. I narrowed my eyes at my brother. "Is this an FBI safehouse, nii-sama?" I asked dangerously.

My brother just shrugged, but his eyes betrayed him. He can tell I'm annoyed. I mostly use Nihongo for everyday chores like shopping and interacting with neighbours, but I switch to English when I write and while I'm working—most of the people I work with are from England. But I lived in Japan for fifteen years since I was eight, so my Queen's English mellowed. However, it sometimes appears whenever I'm angry, annoyed, anxious, or excited.

I saw André trying to suppress his laugh while Jodie smiled in triumph. "It may be close to the office, but let me assure you, this isn't an FBI safehouse," she assured me. "Shuu was just picky with the apartment, and this is the best compared to the others we've seen."

André came from the bedroom from dropping my luggage off. "Though your brother did thorough background checks on all tenants in the building before giving an offer for the apartment," André said helpfully, sniggering.

That earned me an eye twitch. Shuuichi ignored me, took his phone off his coat, and sent a text. There was a ping, and I saw Jodie and André fish their phones from their pockets and read the text. I suddenly got a suspicion.

I narrowed my eyes at my older brother again. "Where is your apartment, nii-sama?"

Jodie and André burst out laughing. "I told you she'd suspect it," Jodie said. She turned to me and placed her arms on my shoulders. "Don't worry— Shuu doesn't live in the same building." She sent an amused look towards Shuuichi and then winked at me. "Why don't I give you a tour?"

The apartment's on the fifteenth floor. It has two bedrooms, with the smaller one furnished as a small office. Two huge bookcases are already filled with books I sent to Shuuichi in advance. The closet is also huge, begging to be filled with new clothes. I only brought three weeks' worth of clothes and plan to shop for more in a few days. I opted not to pack winter clothes, which will take up space and weight.

On the opposite side of the power room is the laundry area with floor-to-ceiling shelves half-filled with laundry products. This means I wouldn't have to share the washing machine with the other tenants in the building. The kitchen is also huge, with a full-sized dishwasher, quite the opposite of what you'd expect in New York. The sink has a window that overlooks a post office. Three small pots of thyme, basil, and oregano are on the windowsill, looking healthy and soaking up the sunlight. I'm slowly falling in love with the living room with a bay window overlooking a small park and the steel gas fireplace. I can imagine myself curling up on the soft padded cushions of the bay window during a snow day while I enjoy the fire by the fireplace while reading a book. My selling point is the rooftop access, a gym on the fifth floor, and a pool in the basement. This means I wouldn't need to pay for membership as the gym downstairs is included in the building's monthly dues. The furniture is also simple yet sturdy looking. The apartment also has underfloor heating instead of radiators, which is a plus. The walls are white and bare of any art, but that can be remedied. There were also a bunch of fliers on the coffee table for internet connection, the tenancy contract, delivery food pamphlets, a book about New York City's tourist spots, and a list of shows on Broadway.

"Some furniture is from Ikea, and most is from vintage shops. I made sure to select neutral colours, though. Shuu didn't tell me your favourite colour," Jodie explained.

"You furnished this apartment?" I asked.

"Well, it wasn't hard. I did my apartment," she shrugged. "André and Shuu helped me to assemble the furniture. The apartment's paid for the next three months, so you only need to send post-dated checks to the property management." She handed me a packet and a thick envelope. "There was some money left from what Shuu gave me, so I made sure to buy pantry essentials and fill up your fridge." She opened the overhead cabinets in the kitchen and showed me the basic spices, dry pasta, risotto rice, cereals, and tea bags. The cabinet underneath the sink contains cleaning materials, basic cleaning products, kitchen towels, and sponges. Even the powder room has a huge package of toilet paper. The fridge includes fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, soda, water bottles, and orange juice. There's even ice cream in the freezer next to two boxes of hot pockets. Beneath that shelf is a space filled with frozen chicken, beef, and a bag of seafood mix. I think that's a New York steak. The ice tray is full, too. I wrinkled my nose when I saw the six cans of beer.

"Thank you, but please take the beers. I don't drink."

"More for me then," Jodie said happily. She removed the beers from the fridge and crouched down to open the wine fridge. "You wouldn't mind if I take home the wine, do you?"

I won't repeat Drunk Masami™ (I still don't know who she is, what she did, or what she said), but I cook with wine. After determining the red wine was good enough for a stew and that I could use the white wine for a risotto I planned to make within the week, I kept a bottle of each and gave the other two pairs to Jodie.

There was a ding from the front door. "Food's here!" André announced. He strolled over the front door as I fished money from my wallet. He waved me off and took the bills from Shuuichi's outstretched hand. "Don't worry, he's buying." He pointed at Shuuichi as he suppressed a laugh. Shuuichi just scowled.

Jodie showed me where the plates and silverware were, and André returned, holding three huge pizza boxes and two pink boxes with labels different from those on the pizza. Right, I got to get used to American serving size. Still, five boxes are an exaggeration, but I understood quickly when André's stomach growled like an angry lion. Followed by mine. I went to the bathroom to wash my hands and cover the blush on my cheeks. When I returned to the kitchen, all the pizza boxes were open, and André was chowing down while Jodie watched in disgust. Shuuichi got a half-eaten pizza before him, and all have opened beer cans between them. There are even half a dozen jelly-filled doughnuts, which I assumed came from the pink rectangular box. The other box has a New York-style cheesecake with blueberry compote on top.

I drooled at the sight of the cheesecake. I love Japanese cheesecake, but sometimes I find it too soft and airy. I'm proud to say that I make a mean baked cheesecake because it's enough to blackmail Shinichi into backing out from football training.

I sat down beside Shuuichi and pulled the cheesecake closer to me. However, it was snatched away, and he placed a slice of pizza before me. He stood up, cheesecake in hand, and put it inside the fridge. He came back with a can of orange soda for me.

"Eat your pizza first, and then you can eat how much cheesecake you want," he said, sitting beside me. I just ignored him and scarfed down the huge slice. I was hungry. My plane landed at JFK International Airport at six in the afternoon, and I only ate half of my lunch on the plane. I took another slice from the box after I finished the slice.

In retaliation, I snagged the beer he was about to drink and placed a second slice of pizza on his plate. "You shouldn't be skinnier than me. Eat three slices, then you can drink beer."

Jodie and André just watched us in amusement.

I spent the first few days in the apartment alone, sleeping off the jet lag and listing what I needed and wanted to do and buy before school started. I have two months, after all. I also looked at maps online to familiarise myself with the shops near my apartment. I took a walk on my fourth day and found a farmer's market just fifteen minutes from my apartment, which was convenient. A street over that has shops on either side. I found a butcher shop that makes their own sausages and a small Korean grocery store right next to it. Two streets from there are all pubs and restaurants. I enjoyed an authentic spicy Lo-Mein for lunch at a Chinese restaurant at the end of that street, right in front of an antique bookstore. I only realised that the area is part of Chinatown. I later learned Shuuichi frequents the restaurant because, among the several photos on the wall, I saw one with Jodie, André, Shuuichi, and an elderly man with salt and pepper hair and a thick moustache who I presumed to be James Black. All three are smiling at the camera while Shuuichi just looks on, nonchalantly stuffing his mouth of dumplings from a huge bamboo steamer in front of him.

I decided that I had done enough procrastination and accepted Jodie's offer to show me around. I called her yesterday and invited her to go shopping.

I expect that Jodie and I would be walking to most places, so I pulled my stretchy denim from my closet and paired it with a loose, faded yellow crop top on top of a sports bra, slip-on trainers, and my favourite David Harleyson red leather jacket that Shuuichi gave me for my twenty-second birthday a year ago. I went to my small jewellery box to put on my usual pieces. I only own five anyway— the emerald necklace on a silver chain mom gave me as a high school graduation present, the stretchy rainbow seed bead bracelet Masumi made for a class project when she was twelve, the pearl drop earrings Shuukichi gifted me as an eighteenth birthday present and a Pandora rose gold watch that Shuuichi sent me when I graduated university. I was fortunate to own one before Pandora stopped selling them in 2014 in my previous life. Fate must have aligned itself for me because I got the same watch in this life, though Shuuichi selected rose gold instead of silver.

The last piece is a custom gold signet ring I had made with a phoenix engraving. It has my two sets of initials: JLR for Josephine Lowe Roberts and AOM for Akai Okiya Masami on either side of the phoenix. It also doubles as a hanko and a wax stamp. It is arguably the most expensive thing (disregarding the car because it was a necessity) I bought after Half-Blood Prince was published, but it is symbolic. I thought it appropriate and ironic.

I spritzed on my favourite YSL Libre perfume, which Yukiko and Yusaku-sensei gave me as a souvenir from one of their trips. I was horrified when Yukiko nonchalantly told me the price of the bottle. I tried to give it back, but she told me her friend was an ambassador of the brand, and she was given two bottles, and one was enough for her. I still have a quarter left. Maybe I can find a dupe of it somewhere?

I grabbed my small brown leather crossbody Fusae bag from my bedroom and stuffed it with my essentials— wallet, phone, a small tube each of hand cream and SPF, my rainbow infinity scarf, an extra scrunchie, a small bottle of hairspray, a pocket comb and a handkerchief. I debated if I should bring the self-defence kit Shuuichi gave me. It's not illegal to carry around in Japan, but you can get in trouble if you use it, whether it is reasonable or not. Deciding that Jodie and André were enough to keep me safe, I closed my bag and styled my hair into a simple Dutch braid, applied lip cream on my lips— not even bothering to apply full make-up— shoved my oversized round sunglasses on my face and left my apartment to meet up with Jodie, making sure to lock up.

"Oh, Shuu's gonna kill you," Jodie pointed at my half-exposed stomach before kissing me on the cheek as a greeting.

"He won't be meeting us today, right? It's still the three of us?" I asked her nervously.

I've been wanting to wear slightly risky outfits since graduating high school. I'm not talking about micro miniskirts and low cleavage enough for people to see my breasts. One summer, The Kudou family and I went to Italy for a holiday. Yusaku-sensei and Shinichi went on a tour while Yukiko and I ventured shopping. She saw this red backless silk cocktail dress that was so low, It was dangerously close to exposing my butt crack. I grudgingly tried it on, and when she saw me, she dared me to wear it for an event in the future.

"Yukiko-san—"

"Yu-ki-ko," she corrected me for the nth time.

"If I wear this dress to an event, my brothers will get wind of it, and they will kill me," I said, getting an image of Shuuichi and Shuukichi scolding me. I shuddered at the thought. "If I'm still alive, my mother will certainly finish the job."

"Oh, tosh!" Yukiko exclaimed, grabbing the dress from my hands and adding it to her pile of 'will buy.' "You're an adult. You can wear dresses like this. Besides, this will surely get attention from attractive men." She walked away as she cracked like an evil witch.

The other is a little black dress on display in a Parisian shop. It instantly reminds me of Jamie Lee Curtis from True Lies. When I first saw it, I had to have it, but it's another dress I won't dare wear out in public. Hmm, maybe for a date.

"It's still the three of us, but he mentioned eating dinner at your place after his stakeout," André said, greeting me with a wave, albeit looking embarrassed and sad at what he said for some reason.

Ah, yes. I promised to cook Chili for dinner today. My plan is now to fatten Shuuichi— host dinner at least once or twice a week. I already left the Chili to cook in the crockpot at home. It should be done and still warm once we get back. I'm pairing it with cornbread, which is already mixed and chilling in the fridge. I only need to transfer it into a baking dish and bake it in the oven for fifteen to twenty minutes. That's enough time to prepare the garnishes and put our shopping bags away. I'll pester Shuuichi to shower before dinner and convince him to sleep the night in my apartment. If he meets us for dinner after a stakeout, he'll probably still wear work clothes. I already bought tracksuit bottoms and vests for him a few days ago. It's stretchable, so it will fit him. I can put his work clothes in the laundry, which will dry in a few hours. I also bought frozen pizza dough from the bakery downstairs. I can stuff it with leftover Chili, which Shuuichi and André can take home. For dessert, I made Lemon Cake. I only covered it with a crumb coating last night, and it's also chilling in the fridge. I'll finish it off with the rest of the cream cheese buttercream icing later.

I just shrugged. "Oh well, that won't be for a few more hours yet. Now, let's eat lunch. I want a burger."

André just chuckled and opened the car door for us. "I know just the place. Ladies," he bowed at us. Jodie and I giggled like twelve-year-olds as we got into the car.

We agreed to eat lunch before shopping, so André dropped us in front of Shake Shack on 36th Street and left to park the car. I forgot about the American serving size again as I gawked at the burger served to me. I had to return to the counter to order a smaller burger, leaving the bigger one for André to eat. He offered to carry our bags in exchange for food anyway, so that was his first portion. He appreciated the meal when he returned from parking the car.

I lived in a busy city in my previous life. I also live in Tokyo and am used to busy shopping districts. However, nothing can compare to New York City. Every street we walk by is filled with tall buildings. It's not as clean as Central Tokyo, but it's as busy, if not more. We passed men and women wearing suits walking the streets while talking on their phones. Some jog as late as 1 pm, while others are like normal people with dogs out for a stroll. The iconic yellow cabs are everywhere, along with buildings under construction.

We stopped by several shops to buy whatever caught our eye. I got some make-up and hygiene products from MAC and Ulta. I purchased several jumpers and denim trousers from H&M, and a mini chopper, a small rice cooker, and an electric kettle from Target. They will be delivered in two to three days. We stopped by a sports goods store for new trainers and yoga leggings. Before we paid for our things, I insisted I get André new trainers. When I met him at the airport, I noticed he wore an old pair. He was embarrassed and shy but pointed at plain red and black trainers that were on display on the shelf. When we arrived at Macy's, André's two arms were filled with shopping bags. He went to the car to leave the bags there before meeting us inside. We had fun teasing him, though. Jodie and I went to the underwear section, giggling like twelve-year-old girls with a blushing André behind us. He sat down on a bench in defeat when he figured we wouldn't leave for some time.

"So, Shuu tells us you're a writer?" Jodie asked as she took a bite of her ice cream. We're currently resting our feet from all of the walking around. Craving for more cheesecake, Jodie led me to The Cheesecake Factory. I'm almost tempted to order three, but I reminded myself of American-size portions again and the Lemon Cake I made last night for Jodie as a thank-you for giving me her time today. I settled on a Salted Caramel cheesecake and a pot of tea. It's not over-brewed, but it will do.

"Oh, yeah," I took a bite of my cheesecake, ignoring André demolishing his second helping of Chicken Alfredo with gusto. "I'm currently writing my second series, though it's related to the first book series I wrote."

"Oh? I'm not sure if it has reached the US yet. What is it all about?"

Maybe Shuuichi hasn't told them?

"Oh, well," I spluttered. It still embarrasses me whenever I talk about my work outside of work. This is why I prefer to just do phone interviews. "I use JL Roberts as a pseudonym."

Luckily, I ducked my head to bite my cheesecake because Jodie sputtered into her cocktail, and André choked on his Alfredo.

"You wrote Harry Potter?!"

"Shhh!" I clamped my hands on Jodie's mouth and looked around. The other patrons looked over but didn't give us that much attention afterwards. I smiled at them awkwardly before turning back to my companions. "Maybe the news about me hasn't reached America yet because no one recognised me at the airport, and I plan to keep it that way," I whispered, ducking my head down. "I will mix school with work here because my American publisher is based in New York. So I'm going with it until the cat's out of the bag."

The sudden realisation filled her eyes. "So that's why."

"Why what?"

"That explains the apartment, for one." she pointed out, glancing at a still choking André. She pats his back a little harder. He gasped and took a big swig of water from his glass, murmuring his thanks before demolishing his plate like nothing happened. My face and Jodie's wrinkle in amusement and disgust. "And he spoke with our boss requesting a team for some protection detail. Not in your apartment," she hastily added when I narrowed my eyes. "I just heard when a protection detail is needed, a team will be readily available for him at his disposal."

"He's overprotective," I complained, blowing a raspberry immaturely.

Jodie just laughed.

Now, I never really expected anything major to happen while I was in New York. I mean, most Black Organisation jobs happened in Japan, right?

Right?

However, another surprise came speeding into my life one year into my stay in New York.

"Bwah?" I woke up with a start. I jerked up from my bed, eyes still closed, and tried to feel my way around my nightstand. I got a hold of my alarm clock and threw it across the room before snuggling back to bed. It was supposed to be the weekend, damn it!

However, the blaring sound kept ringing, and I realised it was the buzzer from the front gate. I scampered from my bed to the front door and pressed the speaker button.

"Yeah?" I answered before letting out a bear-like yawn.

"Nee-chan? Are you there? I need help!"

I woke up instantly. I only know three people who calls me that. One should be in England and the other two should be in Japan. Through my squinted eyes, I was surprised to see Shinichi on the screen, soaking wet.

"What the? Shinichi? Is that really you?"

"Yes, it's me! Please let us in. I have Ran with me, and she fainted!"

I pressed the buzzer so the front gates could permit him. I ran towards my bedroom to grab my sleeping robe and tied it securely around my waist. I grabbed two towels from the linen closet and went back to my front door to unlock and open it. While waiting for Shinichi, I ran a hairbrush through my tangle-filled long hair while wracking my brain about why Shinichi was here in New York.

Then I froze mid-brush.

Murder Case in the Sky. The Judgement of Paris production.

Vermouth.

The squeaking of tiles broke me from my thoughts and Shinichi appeared on my threshold, holding an unconscious Ran in his arms, both of them soaking wet.

"Living room, place her on the floor," I instructed him. "Wait!" I grabbed one of the towels and laid it on the floor. I gestured for him to lay Ran on top. I adjusted the thermostat for the floor heating and turned on the gas fireplace—I distinctly noticed Shinichi and Ran shivering from the cold. It hasn't snowed yet, but the temperature outside must be freezing. I ran back to my room to snag more towels, a pair of my pyjamas from my closet and a pair of Shuuichi's spare clothes.

"Here," I said, giving Shinichi the clothes and a towel. I felt his forehead and neck. He was shivering but otherwise had no fever. "Go take a hot shower, and I'll take care of Ran. Leave your clothes outside the bathroom door, and I'll take care of it later." I shoved him towards the bedroom, ignoring his protests.

I removed Ran's clothes, including underwear, and dried her hair and body as best as possible. I put her in my warm pyjamas, carried her over to the couch, and covered her with my weighted blanket that's always on my couch. Her lips are turning blue now, and her breathing is slow and shallow. I returned to my bedroom, grabbed my fluffy thermal socks and hand-knit gloves, and put them on her.

I can't do anything more for her. Her body must gradually return to the right temperature, or she'll be even sicker. I grabbed her clothes, went into my bedroom to grab Shinichi's clothes, and placed them inside the washer. It should be clean and dry within two hours. I glanced at the clock above the TV and decided to serve dinner. Though I only have leftover burritos in my fridge that I plan to eat once I wake up, it won't be enough. Delivery might take an hour at least, and I don't want someone to go on their way in this weather just to deliver food to me. It looks to be raining cats and dogs out there. The quickest meal I can do is to cook instant noodles. The warm soup should fill their stomachs and help with the cold. I grabbed three packs of Korean Black Shin Ramyeon from the overhead kitchen cabinet, an unopened soymilk tetra box and a big pot. I added half soymilk and half water to the pot and turned on the stove to boil it. I filled up the kettle with water and turned it on to boil. I can hear Shinichi finishing up from my room, and he should be out in a few minutes. I took out three eggs and the leftover steak from the fridge I brought home this afternoon.

I was stirring honey in my tea when Shinichi came out of my bedroom. He went straight to Ran to check up on her. Her shivering stopped a while ago, and she's now sleeping peacefully.

I handed Shinichi a cup of black coffee— I don't think he'll appreciate my over-brewed tea. "What happened?" I asked.

He was quiet for a while before he turned to me. "Mom invited Ran and me to New York, and we came to see some play on Broadway," he said, sitting on the bar stool on the kitchen island. I slid him a bowl of instant ramen and a pair of chopsticks, and he nodded in thanks. Someone killed one of the stage actors. Mom and I helped in the investigation. She's at the police station now, giving her statement."

I stared at him incredulously. "How long have you been in New York? Why didn't Yukiko call me?"

He gave a start, noodles and steak midway from the bowl to his lips. "Mom didn't tell you?"

I snorted. "If she did, I wouldn't be sleeping in."

"Nee-chan, it's seven in the evening."

"I have some night classes," I defended. "Most of my classmates, unlike me, work a nine-to-five job, so the school has to accommodate them."

"You have a class today?"

"I don't have class on a weekend," I said, serving myself a bowl of ramen, steak and eggs. "My classes end at two every Saturday, but I have work tomorrow afternoon."

"You're being careful, right?" he asked worriedly. "We landed a few hours ago, and I'm already hearing about a street slasher…"

I remember hearing that from Shuuichi. When the first incident became known, Shuuichi started stalking my apartment and calling me to ask where I was. I kept on reassuring him that I now always carry the self-defence kit he gave me, and even though I always walk from school to home, I now take a cab, especially at night. He relaxed after that.

"A Japanese man with long hair, yeah," I said. "It was on the news. I would have warned you if I had known you and your mom were visiting."

He snorted, finishing his bowl. "I bet she wanted it to be a surprise. She didn't tell us either until we were in the taxi to the airport."

"Yeah, that sounds like her."

He sighed in annoyance, combing his hair with his fingers irritably. "Anyway, we met Sharon Vineyard, and she gave Ran a keepsake, but she lost it while we were in the taxi. She had to find it," he rolled his eyes in exasperation. "And we met the serial slasher."

I jumped in surprise, almost choking on my tea. "What?" I shouted. I glanced at Ran, who still looked sound asleep. "I didn't see any wounds on her. Are you alright? Were you injured?"

"I'm fine," he yanked down his shirt and shoved my hands away. "No wounds, no injuries, just cold from the rain."

The phone rang, and I went to answer it. "The remaining food on the pot is Ran's. If you're still hungry, get anything from the fridge or the cabinet for food."

He nodded and went to open the fridge.

"Hello?" I answered the phone. I had to yank the receiver from my ear when Yukiko's frantic shouts came blaring from the speaker. "Calm down, they're here in my apartment."

"Masami-chan? Shin-chan and Ran-chan are with you?"

"Yeah," I ran my hand through my hair. Damn it, I forgot to brush it through, it's still tangled. "Ran is close to hypothermia, but otherwise, alright. Shinichi's wearing fresh clothes, and their clothes are in the washer. He's fed, but Ran hasn't woken up yet."

"Oh, good," she let out a relieved breath. "I went to the police station, but I realised that I didn't tell them which hotel we were staying. I tried to call Shin-chan, but he did not answer his phone."

"Well, both of them are soaked to the bone. His phone is probably water-damaged from the rain. They can stay here for the night. I don't have an extra room, but Ran and I can share the bed. Shinichi can sleep on the couch."

She thanked me profusely, and I scolded her. "It was supposed to be a surprise!"

"Yukiko-san—"

"Yukiko," she interjected, as per usual.

"—You could've told me in advance. I'm more than happy to arrange hotel accommodations for you. But what's done is done."

We exchanged banter, and I scolded her some more. She finally said her goodbyes meekly. I replaced the receiver on the phone and went back to the kitchen.

Only to see Shinichi sputtering something in his mug. "Nee-chan, what the hell?! What is this crap?!"

I just tsked, seeing my teapot half empty. "That's my tea. You know I like my tea bitter."

The commotion woke Ran from the couch. She almost fell from it, but Shinichi was fast. He grabbed her and settled her on his side. "Ran, you awake?"

"Shinichi? Where are we?"

"We're in Masami-nee-chan's apartment."

Her eyes flew up and landed on me. I waved weakly in greeting. "Nee-chan?"

"Hey, are you feeling alright?" I asked. I took a mug from the drawers and poured her coffee. "Here, this should warm you up even more."

"That's not tea, is it?" Shinichi asked, his eyes narrowing.

I glared at him. "Leave my tea alone. I gave her coffee." I turned back to Ran. "I don't know how you take your coffee, but there's milk and honey on the counter. I also made instant ramen. It's still warm and not too spicy— I cooked it in soymilk."

"Why am I wearing mittens?" she asked, looking perplexed. "And I'm not wearing underwear?"

Shinichi released her like she was contagious. I hid my laugh at his blushing face. "Sorry, you were soaking wet, so I had to remove all your clothes. Don't worry, Shinichi was taking a shower while I changed you. Both of your clothes are in the washer and should dry in a few hours. You and Shinichi are staying the night," I stopped her protests. "I won't let you go out in this weather. Shinichi can get the couch. You and I can share the bed."

She nodded in acceptance, her face also red. She removed the gloves and socks and sauntered towards the kitchen counter, dragging the weighted blanket behind her. I slid the cream and honey closer to her, and she proceeded to dump a load of cream on her mug. Shinichi just watched her fondly before filling up a new bowl of instant ramen and sliding it in front of her.

I went to my bedroom to grab a thick jumper and gave it to Ran. "Here, this should be more comfortable than the blanket. You can use it later in bed. Do you want more noodles?"

She shook her head, slurping the noodles hungrily, but I saw Shinichi looking eagerly at the pot. "I'll make some more, but I don't have any more meat. Are just eggs alright with you?" I asked Shinichi.

"Thanks."

The next morning wasn't better. Shuuichi called me last night to check up on me but I guess that wasn't enough. I woke up with a knock on my door. It's a good thing that Ran and Shinichi are still sleeping.

"Are you alright?" That was his first greeting when I opened the door for him.

I blinked at him. "Why wouldn't I be? I told you I'm home." I said, letting him enter.

"The serial killer was sighted near here, so I had to check up on you."

I was surprised by the news. From what I remember reading the manga, the police caught the serial killer. "The killer is still on the loose?"

"Yes, so no leaving the apartment at night. If you have to, take a cab. You know the number for the cab service, right? Do you still have work this afternoon- Who's that?" He froze and glared at the couch. He took out his gun and cocked it menacingly.

"Nii-sama, that's Yusaku-sensei's son!" I hissed at him, trying to keep my voice low. Ran and Shinichi are still sleeping. He straightened up and let go of the trigger, but he was still tense and hadn't placed the gun away. "Remember the family I stayed with in Japan? That's their son. He came in last night soaking wet with his friend." Then he looked around to look for a second person. He glared at my bedroom door when he didn't see anyone else in the living room and kitchen. "Female friend," I stressed out. "Please put your gun away and relax." I pleaded. "They're only sixteen-year-olds."

His face may look calm and composed, but I can tell he's worried.

"Masami," he snapped, but he uncocked his gun and placed it back in his shoulder holsters. "What did I tell you about permitting strangers into your apartment? Didn't I tell you that only Jodie, André, and I are allowed? If you want to bring your friends, tell me first."

I crossed my arms on my chest and glared up at him. "That's a ridiculous rule, and you know it. Besides, they didn't tell me they were flying to New York. The kids only knew when they were on their way to the airport. I doubt that they had time to properly pack clothes."

I glanced back at the living room, checking if Shinichi was really sleeping or pretending to be. He and Shuuichi should meet at the right time. I don't want to eff up the future by messing up the timeline.

I turned to look at Shuuichi, really look at him. If the FBI jacket isn't telling, he's still wearing his work clothes. His hair and clothes underneath his jacket are ruffled and wrinkly. He has enormous bags under his eyes. One improvement from last year was that he seems to have gained weight.

His phone rang. "Yes?" he answered in a whisper. He listened to what the person on the other line said. "I'm on my way," and he promptly ended the call.

I knew what he'd ask next, so I beat him to it. "I cancelled my meeting this afternoon, and I won't be leaving the apartment until tomorrow or if my publisher calls, we can have a video meeting instead. My pantry needs filling up, but I can pay for delivery. I don't have classes on Monday either. My phone is always with me, and it's not on silent. One ring, and I'll answer it, I promise."

Sometimes, an overprotective Shuuichi is suffocating. But seeing him now, on the verge of collapse and worry etched on his face, I only had to breathe and do what he asked me to.

He relaxed a little bit and gave me a lingering hug. "I'm sorry."

"I know," I sighed, returning his hug tight. "I don't know if you'll be busy later on, and I don't know when the kids will return to their hotel, but I expect you, along with Jodie and André, for supper. No excuses."

He just hugged me tighter.