Ace In The Hole

by eiranerys

Shido has barred the Shadow Operatives from action for two years. But when the Phantom Thieves appear, Mitsuru decides that they have to take action. Luckily, there's a certain former member Shido doesn't seem to be aware of: Ken Amada. But when Ken meets the Phantom Thieves in person, he can't help but agree with their goals. He can't help but befriend them. Phantom Thief!Ken AU.

56. 55: A New Start

Chapter 55

A New Start

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Monday, February 13th, 2017

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The door suddenly swung open with a loud creak, making Ren look up.

"Amamiya, a visitor for you," his guard said, his voice sounding almost… bored. "Don't keep them waiting."

Ren just gave a tired nod before trudging to his feet. He followed the guard out, going down several hallways. Ren couldn't help but stare as he sank down in his seat, taking in his visitor.

"...Sae?"

"Long time no see." Sae smiled at him, pure relief shining in her eyes. "I'm happy to report we finally managed to prosecute Masayoshi Shido. He'll likely be found guilty. I'm grateful for your cooperation with the trial."

Sae then hesitated, closing her eyes for a moment.

"And… Goro Akechi has turned himself in. His testimony and yours were enough to implicate him and a great deal of his associates. It will take some time to prosecute them all, however…"

A great deal… would that mean that some people managed to buy their way out? Ren couldn't help but frown at that. But… there was a bigger thing that caught Ren's attention.

"Akechi just… turned himself in. Really?" Ren asked, unable to stop himself from feeling skeptical.

Last time he saw Akechi, he was so adamant that he was in the right. He wouldn't listen to any of them. It must've taken nothing less than divine intervention for Akechi to change his mind.

"He did. His trial for his part in Shido's plans will be scheduled soon." Sae's expression had been somber as she explained this; it made sense, given their old partnership. But then her face then lit up with a warm smile. "Shido's confession also shed light on the truth of your case."

"We were able to prove your innocence in the original assault charge that led to your arrest," Sae continued. "And thus—your sentence has been rescinded. You're a free man now."

"I-I don't understand…" Ren said. "Y-You're not joking, right?"

"Ren-kun…" Sae smiled sadly at him. "I know… the system has failed you multiple times. But I would never joke about this kind of thing. Everyone worked so hard for your sake. They had found something to believe in so strongly. They even brought in the woman who was the victim in your case as a witness. It was certainly not easy, convincing her to testify…"

Her smile turned rueful at that. He was… shocked that they had managed to track her down, let alone convince her to testify. Given… what happened before. But then Sae spoke again.

"And not to mention, there was an unbelievable amount of support has come in from various other places as well."

"How much?" Ren asked, puzzled.

Sae smiled. "We'll be here all day talking if I went into detail about it. But the bottom line is that—you are blessed in your friends and allies. And all that remains is for us adults to lead society in the right direction."

Leading society in the right direction… it would be an uphill battle, but it was for a good cause. But… he trusted his allies, like Sae and Yoshida.

Ren smiled back at her. "I trust you."

But his mind couldn't help but float back to Akechi. He couldn't believe that Akechi had actually turned himself in. Ren had forced himself to focus on the mission at the time, but at the back of his mind, the question of Akechi's whereabouts had nagged at him. Where did they even find him…?

And how was he even convinced? He doubted it was a pleasant conversation. Turned himself in… that meant they didn't have to force him. That… was unreal.

"Thank you, though," Sae said. She was quiet, seemingly pondering over something as she rubbed her forearm. "I'm glad that I was able to help overturn your sentence. Hearing the news… was the happiest I've been my entire life. I'm not quite sure how to put it, but… saving your future meant more to me than my own career. I feel like you even taught me how to live."

Ren couldn't help but crack a smile. "Jeez, feeling a little sappy?"

Sae gave him an exasperated look before she shook her head.

"I mean it," she said firmly. "After my father died, I was… so intent on punishing criminals. I completely forgotten my way. You have my thanks for reminding me of what was really important. Sometimes I think about how… Makoto might've cut me off eventually if I hadn't found my way back, thanks to you."

"Sae, I don't think—"

Sae shook her head, a rueful smile on her lips. "I know… it's only a possibility. But I can't help but think of the what ifs, and how I'm grateful it did not come to pass."

Ren looked down. "You know… Makoto actually got your Shadow to cease fire eventually. Even the darkest part of your mind was able to listen to what she had to say."

"Oh… you didn't tell me that before," Sae remarked, tilting her head. "Hmm…"

"Something on your mind?" Ren tilted his head as well.

She remained silent for a few more seconds, glancing off in the distance. She let out a sigh and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.

"It has come to mind from time to time…" she admitted, then she suddenly lowered her voice to a near-whisper. "But I was wondering… what was my Treasure?"

Ren blinked. "Why do you want to know?"

"Just out of curiosity, I suppose." Sae then gave a wry smile. "I suppose it does not matter anymore… my Palace is gone."

"Sorry for that, by the way," Ren said with a sheepish smile.

Sae chuckled and shook her head. He could help but notice it all of a sudden, but when she smiled, she kinda looked like Makoto. They didn't look too much alike despite being sisters, but in this moment, he could see his friend in Sae.

"It's all water under the bridge now." Sae said.

She suddenly paused, looking thoughtful.

"There is… one more thing. I haven't even told Makoto about this… but I realized something after meeting all of you. My most prized 'treasure' is the justice I use to protect those important to me. Makoto helped show me that as well."

Ren smiled. "Yeah… I can relate to that."

A part of him had craved so much to be… justified after what happened with Shido that night so long ago. But he realized now that it was… all about enacting justice. Helping others downtrodden by people in authority.

It had made him distrust so many who had authority. But things were different now. He trusted Sae to make things right again.

"But I'm thinking once the Shido case has settled… I want to switch careers. I'm thinking of becoming a defense attorney."

Ren blinked. "Huh… so fighting for the underdogs now?"

Sae chuckled. "I suppose you could say that. I wanted to reform the system, but… I've realized that I want to enact justice for others—not just myself—more."

"The conviction rate is pretty high here in our country, and I can't imagine some in your field would like this switch. You're going to become an underdog yourself against huge odds," Ren said.

"Yes… I suppose that's true." Sae frowned.

Ren couldn't help but smile slyly. "That's very Phantom Thief of you, I approve."

Sae looked a bit surprised at that response, but she quickly smiled again after a moment.

"Yes… I suppose I would be," she nodded.

Ren then added, "And you don't have to worry too much, I think. A defense attorney who knows how the prosecution thinks? That would make for a powerful defense that the accused needs. Plus… Makoto does have pretty strong aspirations to change the system herself. Would be good to have her as an ally one day."

"So she's told me," Sae said, smiling proudly.

Ren couldn't help but notice how much she was smiling today. Sae looked… so much lighter now.

"I would love to talk to you some more but…" Sae glanced over her shoulder. "I really should check up on your paperwork. They're filing for your release as we speak."

"I can really go home?"

Ren still could hardly believe it. It just didn't seem real. He was actually free to go? He can see the others again?

Ren quickly pinched himself. A sharp pain told him that he wasn't dreaming. Ren lowered his head, fiddling with his glasses.

"Really," Sae said, nodding. Her expression suddenly grew morose and she wrapped an arm around herself. "And… I want to apologize to you again. You shouldn't haven't had to suffer like this… I hated myself for not finding another way."

Ren frowned, wondering how to address this.

"With all due respect, I've learned that sometimes life really wants to treat you a shitty hand. But…" Ren swallowed. "It's how you learn how to handle it, roll with the punches… I know I wouldn't be able to handle it without the support of my friends."

"Ren-kun…" Sae then let out a laugh, shaking her head. "Really, it surprises me how mature you can be."

Ren just raised an eyebrow at her. "Is that a compliment or insult?"

Sae just laughed again. "I'll let you decide. But give me a moment to check up on your release papers. Hopefully, we'll have you out of here soon."

She got up, giving one last wave. The door closed behind her and Ren inhaled. He pressed a hand to his now racing heart.

It was over. Shido's trial was practically here. And… he was getting out of here.

---

The sun shone brightly, especially for a day in February. Ren tilted his head up, basking in the sunlight. He didn't think he'd get to feel sun on his face ever again.

His brain kept trying to soak it in but he still couldn't grasp he was actually free to go. It felt like he'd wake back up stuck in that place and not out here.

He was suddenly snapped out of his thoughts, when a car suddenly honked, making him jump a bit.

Sojiro pulled up to the curb with a grin. "Need a ride?"

"What happened to only giving rides to girls?" Ren asked as he slid into the passenger seat.

Sojiro snorted. "I guess you're the one exception."

Ren couldn't help but grin. It felt too good to hear his voice.

"But come on. Let's head home."

Ren couldn't help but fidget as they approached Yongen-jaya. He was… a little nervous about seeing his friends again…

"You're really blessed, you know," Sojiro said suddenly. When Ren looked at him, he smiled. "They worked their butts off to save you from this unfair sentence. Most people don't get this kind of second chance."

"I don't plan on squandering it… ever," Ren said, before giving Sojiro a lopsided grin. "But don't be so modest, I bet you helped."

"Heh… only a little. And glad to hear it, you better thank them all as much as you can," Sojiro said with a smile. He suddenly scratched his cheek. "But anyways… we're here."

"Back to the mother henning…" Ren mumbled under his breath with a laugh.

He pulled to the curb, gradually coming to a stop. Sojiro waved a hand at Ren, gesturing for him to climb out.

"I'll go park the car and I'll join you after," Sojiro said. "They're waiting for you, you know."

Ren let out a breath. "Okay… thanks, Sojiro."

He got out of the car, shutting the door behind him. His footsteps slowed as he approached Leblanc's door. He looked up and down with a nostalgic smile.

It was such a familiar sight to him. But… there was something better waiting for him inside. He pushed the door open, the familiar bell's jangle like music to his ears. He took in a moment to breathe in the deep, rich scent of coffee before he let his eyes wander the café.

His friends' beaming expressions were really a sight for sore eyes.

But Anne. Anne. She seemed frozen for a second before a wide smile spread across her face, making her entire face light up. She was so beautiful when she smiled.

But then Anne bolted for him, wrapping her arms around him. She squeezed him close, burying her face against his shirt. He could feel something dampen his shirt. She raised her head before giving him the gentlest smile he's ever seen.

"Ren… welcome home," she whispered.

Ren wrapped his arms around her, breathing in her scent. It suddenly crashed down on him.

He was free.

"Anne… I'm sorry…" he whispered.

Anne smiled, even as her eyes grew glassy with tears. "Ren… don't apologize. We get it, okay?"

He just nodded and pulled her close again. She smelt just as he remembered. He could just feel at peace breathing in her hair fragrance. If he didn't, he might wake up from this dream.

"Okay, okay, you got your mushy reunion!" Futaba interjected. "You can continue the gushy bits later."

Annnd leave it to Futaba to kill his peaceful mood.

"Ugh… fiiiine…" Anne said with a pout.

Futaba pounced on him, giving him a fierce hug. He couldn't be too mad, he missed them all so much.

"Welcome back!" she exclaimed.

"Took us a while…" Ryuji then grinned, draping an arm around Ren. "But we're glad to have you back."

"I can't…" Ren shook his head. He cleared his throat, all but choking out, "I can't believe you did this for me… I feel like I'm dreaming."

There were several times where he would wake up by now, but he hadn't. He was back home…

"Oh, Ren-kun…" Haru sighed, giving him a sad, but understanding smile. "It's not a dream, I promise."

Anne suddenly grabbed his hand, giving it a firm squeeze. Ren got the message—I'm here. Ren just squeezed her hand back, reveling in being able to hold her hand once again.

"How are you feeling? Physically, I mean," Makoto said.

"Okay, I guess." Ren shrugged. "The food wasn't the greatest, I'll admit but…"

"Ah we gotta get Sojiro to make food for Ren!" Futaba interjected. "Like right now!"

It was in that moment Sojiro walked in.

"Oh, perfect timing!" Futaba cheered, pumping a fist. "Sojiro, food! For Ren! Pronto!"

"Futaba, don't be so demanding…" Ken chided, shooting her an exasperated look.

Ren couldn't help but smile, hearing the usual banter.

"I'm glad that you're back," Yusuke said. "Truly. It has not been the same without you."

Ren looked at his friend. "It feels good to be back."

Sojiro sighed, shaking his head. "Well, Futaba does kinda have a point about food. Give me a bit to grab some groceries and I'll whip up a feast for everyone."

"Ha!" Futaba stuck out her tongue out at Ken, who just rolled his eyes in response.

Sojiro just chuckled. "Just sit tight. I'll be back soon."

He then turned to leave, the bell chiming as the door shut behind Sojiro. It was only then that Ren let go of Anne's hand to sink into the nearest booth.

"You guys… didn't give up," Ren said. "Even with Mementos gone?"

Anne slid next to him, turning to look at him. "We didn't know what to do once you were gone… But then we realized something. Even if we don't have the Metaverse or any other special powers, we can still change reality."

Ryuji and Yusuke sat in the booth across the table from him and Anne. Makoto took a seat at the bar. Futaba and Haru sat in the booth behind Ryuji and Yusuke. Ken didn't take a seat but stood next to Makoto and leaned against the bar.

Ken just nodded. "Anne really gave us a wake-up call. She made us realize that we couldn't just sit around and mope about what happened to you."

"I-I didn't do much!" Anne sputtered out.

"Already achieving your dream of being a ray of light for people, huh?" Ren teased her lightly.

Anne bumped him in the shoulder with her shoulder, a blush on her face.

"Quit teasing me, I really didn't do that much…"

Ren couldn't help but chuckle. She was so cute when she got flustered sometimes. But he couldn't help but smile warmly at her still. It was so good to see her again, and he couldn't help but be touched hearing how she rallied everyone.

"Alright RenRen, stop making goo-goo eyes at Anne… so anyways, we were runnin' around everywhere we could since the new year. It musta been over a month," Ryuji mentioned.

Haru smiled, her eyes glowing with happiness and pride. "Not just us. Everyone who believed in you joined us."

"Not just your associates either," Yusuke stated. "Even some of the people we had helped."

Ken nodded. "And everyone had been happy to help. Mitsuru-san felt pretty bad that she couldn't do anything to stop this as well."

Futaba got on her knees and peered over the booth, grabbing onto Yusuke's shoulder and pushed her face forward.

"Mishima even put out a SOS on the Phan-Site," Futaba said, only for her to grin proudly. "My idea, of course."

Yusuke narrowed his eyes at Futaba but it was Ryuji who actually pushed Futaba back. She stuck her tongue out at Ryuji. Ryuji just chuckled and Yusuke shook his head.

Ryuji then tilted his head. "Or maybe it's SOR—save our RenRen."

"Actually, SOS isn't an acronym," Makoto interjected. "It's a Morse code signal."

Ryuji snorted. "Figures you'd know that sort of trivia."

Makoto shot him a glare and Ken just put a hand on her shoulder. Makoto scowled at Ryuji for a moment more but settled down.

Ken interjected, "But either way, I'm glad that we pushed through."

Futaba pushed through again, but trying to be less in Yusuke and Ryuji's personal space.

"Yeah, we have you back now, Ren!" Futaba beamed at him.

"Guys… thank you." Ren swallowed down the lump forming in his throat. "I didn't expect any of this…"

"Come on, man." Ryuji shook his head. "I mean, you took the hit for all of us. It was the least we could do."

Everyone just all smiled and nodded as Ryuji said this. Ren couldn't believe how lucky he was to have such a great group of friends who wouldn't abandon him. He was distracted from his thoughts when he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder.

"They treated you fine, right?" Anne bit her lip. "It looks like you lost some weight… you look a little skinnier than before."

"It would be understandable… I've heard the food in prison is quite foul," Yusuke noted.

"What didja eat?" Futaba interjected. "Was it bugs? Fermented mackerel? Or maybe durian?"

"Durian's not that bad…" Ken grumbled.

Makoto sighed. "You're both missing the point."

Ren couldn't help but laugh. That cut through whatever debate Futaba and Ken were about to have. Futaba snickered along with him and Ken smiled with a sigh.

"Um… a lot of times it was stuff like… porridge," Ren said before he grimaced. "It was pretty nasty though. Almost like mushy rice."

"Eh, you're gonna get some good food soon enough though. Boss is out gettin' stuff for our party right now. C'mon, everyone's back together!" Ryuji pumped his fist. "It's time to celebrate!"

A small frown appeared on Ken's face and his eyes became distant. "Well… not everyone."

The room got dead quiet. Everyone's eyes became downcast and the mood immediately turned melancholic. The only sound was the TV still on in the corner. They all stayed quiet for only a minute but it felt longer.

"Mona-chan…" Haru's eyes suddenly grew misty before she reached up to rub at her eyes.

"It's not fair that we couldn't get everyone back," Futaba mumbled out.

"Yeah…" Anne sighed out.

Makoto sighed. "He may have been the key person on this whole mission. We even considered what he would do when we were about to give up."

"Not to mention that me and RenRen might've been in deep shit if we didn't spring him from Kamoshida's Palace," Ryuji said, shaking his head.

"And he was the one to tell us about stealing hearts to begin with…" Ren said quietly.

He remembered the first several nights in jail had been… pretty bad. He had never realized how used he had been to Morgana's presence in his life. He still remembered how much Morgana weighed on his chest when they first started to share Leblanc's attic. But now… he missed it.

"Mona totally woulda done something, right?" Ryuji then cracked a grin. "That cat would never quit on you."

Haru nodded. "He was always there to pull us forward."

Yusuke commented, "Morgana truly was the engine of the Phantom Thieves."

Anne let out a weak laugh. "He was a car, after all!"

Futaba sighed, bowing her head. "I wanna see Mona again…"

It was quiet for a moment. But then the door suddenly creaked open, ever so slowly.

"Huh…?" Ren couldn't help but voice.

That was weird; he didn't think Sojiro would be back already—

"Ughhh… not exactly the cool entrance I wanted."

A black cat was awkwardly dangling from the door knob.

"That voice…!" Ren thought as he shot to his feet.

"Morgana?!" everyone blurted out at once.

Ren could feel his heart thumping hard in his chest.

Morgana smiled sheepishly, dropping from the doorknob to the ground. "Hey guys."

"So, you disappear for nearly two months," Ken said flatly, but then his voice grew testy. "And all you can think of is say 'hey'?"

Morgana gulped. "L-Look, I have an explanation—"

"Where the hell have you been?!" Ren demanded.

Morgana let out a yelp before Ren picked him up. Morgana squirmed in his arms but Ren didn't care. He just squeezed Morgana tighter, unable to believe that he was here.

"Jeez, Ren! You don't—you're smushing me!"

Morgana wiggled free, jumping onto the nearest table. He let out a small sigh of relief.

"Morgana, what are you doing here?!" Anne blurted out. "I-I mean… we all saw you disappear!"

Morgana ducked his head. "Uh, well… it's more the me in the Metaverse disappeared."

Makoto blinked before tilting her head slightly. "So… you stayed in reality as a cat?"

Morgana nodded. "When I woke up, I was out in Shibuya looking like this."

"That don't make any sense though!" Ryuji frowned. "I mean, if you were alive, you shoulda come back right away!"

"I…" Morgana rubbed his head with one paw sheepishly. "It was right after I had said goodbye. It would've been awkward to come back so soon…"

"That's such a dumb excuse," Ryuji grumbled out. "What's the real reason?"

He was a cat so it's not like you could see him blushing but Ren could almost feel like Morgana was blushing. He just looked so embarrassed and sheepish.

"I… I got lost." Morgana mumbled, his ears drooping.

Ryuji and Futaba exclaimed in unison, "For this long?!"

"Yes! Mock me all you like! But I was lost! There is the truth! You happy now?! You see why I'd rather say I was waiting for the right moment?!"

Ken finally sat down at the bar, still next to Makoto, he looked so perplexed.

"How could you be lost for this long?" Ken asked. "It's been seven weeks."

Morgana pouted so indignantly and began to explain.

Morgana didn't wake up long after he said goodbye. He felt embarrassed but it was late and didn't know how to reach the others. So he actually ran over and crashed close by Iwai's shop for the night, from roaming around that area often while Ren was with him he knew it well and knew safe places to sleep. And told himself he'd figure it out in the morning.

He then for the next two weeks decided to hang around Shibuya hoping to see the others, often sneaking around places he remembered Ryuji, Anne or Yusuke would frequent when Ren would run into them. He would wait by train stations hoping to see any one of them. He eventually gave up on that plan and decided to return to Yongen-Jaya on his own.

He had several failed attempts to sneak onto the train. And there was one time a little girl tried to pick him up at the train station and attempted to convince her parents to let her adopt him. Fortunately they didn't budge and had her take him out the station. But that left him back at square one.

It was during this that he had realized how much he relied on Ren when getting around. He knew his way around Yongen-Jaya, he knew his way around pocket areas of Shibuya, he didn't know how to get from Shibuya to Yongen-Jaya, without Ren to smuggle him on a train. And… reading maps really confused him.

He kept getting turned around. Got chased by dogs and got turned around into an unfamiliar area of Shibuya. Then he ran into some old lady who smelt of cats… many cats. For the next week she kept hunting him down. At some point he ran into Hifumi which while a familiar face and kind, she didn't know him and it's not like he could communicate with her. She tried to drop him off at an adoption center and he had to make his escape again and got even more lost. He wasn't even sure if he was in Shibuya anymore at that point. He lost track of days.

He also had to worry about feeding himself the whole time. So he would sneak into stores and steal any fish or treats he could get away with stealing. Eventually he ran into someone who did recognize him. Kawakami had found him this morning. Luckily from all the visits with dusting Ren's attic she knew he was his "pet" and planned to return him to Sojiro. She actually drove him to Yongen-Jaya but he ran out of the car the second he recognized the scenery. He felt a bit guilty and asked Ren if he could message her and thank her.

"Kawakami to the rescue!" Ryuji picked up Morgana and smiled at Ren, giving a peace sign.

"Hey! Put me down!" Morgana complained.

Ren just smirked and took a picture of Ryuji holding Morgana and immediately texted Kawakami and thanking her for finding him and returning him. She expressed relief hearing from him again and he thanked her again for helping the others get him home and now Morgana too.

"Put me down already!" Morgana shouted again.

Ryuji stuck his tongue out. "Punishment for making us worry so much."

"Okay, okay, I'm sorry!" Morgana exclaimed and Ryuji set him back down. "I'm… glad that Ren was allowed to go free too. That being said, I'm impressed you pulled it off without me."

"Here we go again…" Makoto sighed but she was smiling.

"But still… I'm sorry that I worried you all." Morgana bowed his head. "Though, uh—could I use the shower before anyone else hugs me? I was stray for so long I think I might smell."

"This ain't the time for a shower, you stupid cat!" Ryuji said, exasperated. "Dammit, this isn't funny! We probably missed you several times! What the hell?!"

Haru exclaimed, "You worried us so much and you were okay this whole time! And you're worried about a bath?"

Futaba just stood up, scooping Morgana in her arms and giving him a tight squeeze.

"Hrgh….! Stop 'ith!" Morgana tried to wiggle free but Futaba held on tighter. "Agh—Ren! Help me! Haven't I been through enough?! Come on!"

"Futaba's just showing her love." Ren shrugged. "But do go easy on him guys, he didn't mean to make us worry."

Even as he kept his voice light, Ren couldn't help but feel elated. Somehow Morgana had survived.

"It's great that you're back and all, but what're you gonna do now?" Anne asked. "I mean, you spent so long wanting to looking into Mementos…"

"But now that point is moot," Ken commented, "And… aren't you technically from the Velvet Room, are you going to return to be with Lavenza and the others?"

Morgana said sheepishly, "I was created by Master Igor actually to follow the Trickster, so my place is by his side… I mean if you still want me."

Ren just smiled and gave him a nod. "You're one of us, always."

Everyone smiled and some nodded. Morgana just mumbled a thank you and Futaba snickered, pinching his cheeks and he batted her away. After some chuckles, things got still again. They all noticed a contemplative look on Morgana.

"You know, I've been thinking…" Morgana said.

Anne blinked. "About what?"

"How to become human, of course," he answered.

Makoto blinked. "Oh really?"

"I might've learned that I'm not a human now, but that doesn't mean I can't turn into one!" Morgana exclaimed.

Ken placed a finger on his chin looking up as he tapped his chin.

"Hmmm… well, Teddie-san did grow a body." Ken said. "It might be possible."

"Better get to doing sit-ups, Mona!" Futaba said with a teasing grin.

Anne and Ryuji both giggled along with Futaba at that suggestion. Yusuke couldn't help but smirk as well but hid it before Morgana could see it.

Morgana pulled a face at her. "Besides that! It's just… I think there's a reason I survived like this."

Yusuke nodded. "Whether there is a reason or not, regardless we are glad to see you're safe."

"And I appreciate that, but just listen… now this is just a guess… but I think I'm still here because you all remained cognitive of me. Even after the world's distortions disappeared, you kept me in your minds. That means you guys think there's a place for me in the real world." Morgana bashfully rubbed his head with a paw. "I guess… you were right. I do belong with you guys."

Futaba gave a firm nod. "Of course this is where you belong, Mona!"

Haru giggled. "She's right, Mona-chan."

"It's good to be home…" Morgana said. "You know, I didn't think much about Leblanc when Ren first brought me here but… it really feels like I'm back now I'm in Leblanc again."

Ren couldn't help but smile. "I feel the same way."

He couldn't help but feel resentful when he had first arrived to Tokyo. Sojiro had been a real ass to him and it felt like he was being dumped like trash. But over time, Leblanc had begun to feel like home to him.

"Home…" Ryuji suddenly muttered; then he tapped his fist against his palm. "That's right!"

Ren and Morgana both quirked their heads towards Ryuji. Ren couldn't help but raise a brow.

"Hm?" Ren looked over to Ryuji. "What's up?"

Ryuji looked down. "Uhh so, Boss mentioned that your probation will be over in a month. You should be heading home soon…"

Ren looked down. Back to Shimoda… honestly, it wasn't something he quite looked forward to. He was much happier in Tokyo. Beside him, Anne seemed to wilt. She then looked to him with… guilty eyes?

"Ren… there's something you have to know," Anne said quietly. "It was about your parents."

"Yukari-san told me that on Christmas Eve, they came to see you," Ken spoke up. "They were worried sick about you and desperate to find you with… everything that happened after Mementos merged with the real world."

Ren couldn't help but snap his head back up.

Ren's eyes widened. "They… did?"

He wasn't sure what to think. His parents didn't care… right?

"They also aided us in our cause." Yusuke nodded, but there was sympathy in his eyes.

Ren looked down, swallowing hard. They had helped him get free? Ren… couldn't believe it. Sae hadn't mentioned anything about that to him when she came to release him.

"I see." Ren coughed, clearing his throat. "Have you… talked with them?"

"A little bit," Haru said after a moment of hesitation.

Even if they were sorry, did it really matter? He was allowed to not forgive them. But all this time… he had thought they hadn't cared. He wasn't sure what to think.

He shook his head and clasped his hands together under the table. He couldn't look at the others at the moment, he could feel them all looking at him sympathetically.

"I'm sorry… it's a lot for me to take in, " he admitted with his head still down.

"It's okay, Ren," Yusuke stated, he then smiled ruefully. "Learning of something you never expected from a parental figure… it turns your world upside down."

He couldn't help but feel a little ungrateful. This was a good thing. Especially after Yusuke, Haru, and Makoto having experienced learning hard truths about people that were either family or just as good as family in Yusuke's case.

"Yusuke-kun…" Haru said softly to him.

"I'm all right now, Haru." Yusuke smiled.

Ren let out a heavy sigh. He finally looked up at the others and sure enough there was nothing but sympathetic gazes his way. He sat up and walked over to the coffee pot, luckily Sojiro still had some in there before he left. It was cold, he decided to heat it up.

"I just… I don't know," Ren let out another sigh.

The timer went off and he poured himself a glass. There was just enough to fill just one glass, and it was Ren's favorite blend too. He gave a half-hearted smile. Sojiro must have left some for him on purpose for him to reheat when he brought him back. That was just like him. Sojiro said he was weird but would sometimes not put things back on the warmer because he knew Ren loved to reheat it himself.

In the back of his head, he knew that he would have to face his parents… eventually. But with this in mind, he suddenly felt unsure and even uncomfortable.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to be a downer," Anne apologized.

"No, don't apologize." Ren sighed. "I appreciate you telling me now instead of later."

The coffee was the perfect temperature now and he gladly took a sip as he moved to sit back down next to Anne. Sojiro always did make the best blends. Ren could feel himself relax a little just from the taste and smell again. He could almost forget about these past couple of months and his parents… almost.

"But hey, maybe they would agree to letting you stay in Tokyo?" Ryuji asked; when Ren looked at him in surprise, he just shrugged. "I mean, even with us clearing your name… I dunno. Would you be happy in Shimoda?"

Ren shrugged as well. "Maybe… although, not sure if Sojiro will even wanna put up with me for another year. Of course, there are other options but I would have to scramble to find housing otherwise. In like… six weeks? I'm not sure if I can anyways."

"I could make Sojiro agree to it! You don't have to be in the attic this time if you don't want to, we can find a way to make space for ya! I mean unless you like the attic…" Futaba piped up. "Orrrr maybe you could stay with Ken, their place is pretty spacious! And you'd get great meals every day!"

Ken sighed. "Futaba, you realize where I live is really owned by Mitsuru-san, right? Also why are you volunteering us? You need to ask Mitsuru-san and Shinjiro-san if that is something they'd be okay with."

"Ren's living situation is far more important and you'll convince them obviously." Futaba smirked.

Ken glared and was about to argue but Makoto cleared her throat, stopping them both. Futaba sheepishly giggled and sat back down. Haru giggled and shook her head next to her.

"And besides that, there's nothing saying that Ken is going to stay in Tokyo for his studies," Makoto said. "I took a few exams for schools outside of Tokyo myself."

"Really?" Ren couldn't help but feel surprised by that. "I thought you would aim for Tokyo U."

"It would be nice to attend such a prestigious school, with it being Sis's alma mater," Makoto admitted. But then she smiled. "But my priorities have changed."

"So in other words Ren could take Ken's room is what I'm hearing." Futaba giggled quietly.

"Give that a rest." Ken shot her a look.

Makoto just rolled her eyes and Morgana laughed to himself and rolled his eyes as well at Futaba's antics. Ren couldn't help but smile but still felt some uncertainty as he stared at his half full coffee mug.

"It would be nice if I could stay in Tokyo," Ren admitted, only to sigh. "But it all depends on my parents. They have final say on this, since I'm still in high school, you know?"

Ryuji's face fell. "Yeah… I guess you guys are right."

"But it means a lot that you want me to stay," Ren hastily interjected.

Makoto pressed her lips together before clapping her hands together once. "Come on, we were all so happy to have Ren back. Let's not try to get down about all this."

Ken managed a smile. "Yeah… you're right, Makoto. We should celebrate."

"Both Ren-kun returning from jail and Mona-chan coming back to us," Haru chimed in.

Ren held his mug up and flashed his friends a smile despite his mixed emotions and finished off his coffee.

"Although… that reminds me, will Boss and Futaba take in Morgana then?" Yusuke asked.

Ren sighed. "I'll… try to talk to my parents. My dad's never been crazy about animals. Said something about dealing with enough chaos growing up."

"Enough… chaos?" Ken repeated, raising an eyebrow. "What is that supposed to mean?"

Ren shrugged. "I dunno. When I asked, he always changed the subject. But I'll do my best to persuade them. I don't want to leave Morgana behind."

"Ren…" Morgana suddenly ducked his head, rubbing at his face with a paw.

"Dude… are you crying?" Ryuji asked.

"N-No!" Morgana quickly denied. "It's just dusty here! Like jeez, does Boss ever dust here?" W

"It's okay if you wanna cry," Futaba teased with a snicker.

"S-Shut up! It's just super dusty here, okay?!"

"Don't worry Mona-chan, if Ren's parents say no, I definitely take custody of you, so dry your tears," Haru said sweetly.

"Hey no way! Sojiro and I got dibs on the crying Mona!" Futaba protested.

"I am not crying!" Morgana hissed.

---

Ren had forgotten what it was like to eat until you felt you were fit to burst. He wasn't exactly starved for food while serving his sentence, but he was hardly satisfied with the food he was given.

But he was settling down back in the attic now, taking a moment to look around now that his friends were leaving for their homes.

It was really good to be back.

"Ren?"

He looked up to see that Anne had come up the stairs. She lingered by the doorway, as if she was unsure about coming in.

"You can come in, Anne," Ren said, looking to his girlfriend.

Morgana looked at Ren and then Anne before running downstairs.

"No excuse this time, huh?" Ren asked with a quirked brow.

Not that he minded, at least Morgana knew that they probably needed some privacy.

Anne just let out a small giggle, shaking her head before turning her attention back to Ren.

"Hi."

"Hey." Ren tried for his usual carefree smile.

The hesitant smile on Anne's face suddenly wavered and she burst into tears.

"Oh shit!" Ren thought as he hurried over to his girlfriend. He put his arms around her. "Anne, don't cry. It's okay."

Anne sniffled, lifting a hand to rub at her eyes for a moment. "It's not that… It's just—I can't believe you're back! It didn't feel real…"

Ren sighed, cupping her cheek for a moment. "Yeah… I know what you mean."

Anne sniffed. "I'm sorry, Ren."

"What are you apologizing for?" Ren couldn't help but feel bewildered as he lowered his hand. "I'm the one who should be apologizing, I hurt you by walking out on you. I didn't even have the guts to tell you to your face."

It ate him up inside still. If only he wasn't such a coward and was honest with her, to her face, like she wanted. That was all she asked that night. And he couldn't bring himself to do it. He only could write her a note.

He just couldn't bear the idea of looking at her in the eyes as he broke her heart.

"Oh Ren…" Anne took a moment to rub at her eyes before taking his hand. "It's okay, Ren. I understand that you were worried about all of us. I'm just—I hate that you had to take the fall for us. That you had to bear that burden, dealing with the guilt, and on top of that, the fact that you had to go to prison."

What did he do to deserve her? It was a relief she wasn't mad at him for it but he still feels like she should at least be a little mad. But if she's willing to let it go, then he should too.

He smiled at her sadly however and cupped her face with one hand and squeezed her hand tightly with the other.

Ren declared, "I'd do it again. If the alternative meant you'd be put in danger, I would do it a hundred times over."

Anne just squeezed his hand back, smiling despite her tears.

"That is so you, Ren…" she said with a rueful smile. "I just hope that it'll be over this time. I don't know if my heart could take it."

"Anne…"

Ren looked down, even as his stomach twisted itself into knots.

Anne said, "Makoto's sister said that Shido's trial is finalized. It should be over… right?"

Her voice wavered at the last part.

Ren answered before finally lowering his hand from Anne's cheek, "I think so. Sae told me that Akechi turned himself in."

"Makoto told us, we couldn't believe it when she dropped the news. We were all so sure that he had left the country." Anne nodded.

For a moment, Ren couldn't help but wonder how Ken felt about all of this. He was still extremely mixed on Akechi, after all. A part of him still found it difficult to digest that he and Ken were cousins, when how they seemed so different. Ken talking about his past always felt so distant to Ren, even though Ken obviously carried some deep regrets about what happened.

But he still couldn't reconcile the person who gleefully wanted all of them killed, especially Ren, had turned himself in. Just what was said to Akechi to convince him to stop running and actually face the music? And who? Not that they were close buddies but he refused to even listen to reason from Ken, the only blood relative that wasn't a conspiratorial, power-hungry, corrupt despot. And probably the only person who understood what Akechi been through. But then again, Akechi refused to understand why Ken let things go and move on. Closed himself off to see Ken's side of things and his experience he gained from those hardships that shaped him, and what really mattered.

Which made him turning himself in all the more baffling. He pushed so hard to get revenge and eliminate any who would get in his way. He wished Sae wasn't in such a hurry when she came to meet him. There is so much more to this. Was there a plea deal? Like a really good one? But he doubted Akechi would bite just for that. This was going to nag at him for a while.

Maybe he'll ask Makoto later when things are settled down a bit.

"So, wouldn't his trial be soon? To use his testimony against Shido?" Ren wondered.

Anne frowned. "Yeah… I think so. It's been very hush-hush so far though, not even the media has caught wind of it yet. Then again, they didn't even report on you being arrested again either. I don't get it, but my guess is Shido's goons are scrambling and in panic mode."

"That sure is something…" Ren muttered, "But there is also a law about reporting on suspects underage."

"Oh really?" Anne quirked her head.

"Yeah, Makoto mentioned it to me when I asked why they didn't unveil my identity after arresting me. I don't understand the full gist of it. You'll have to ask her. But it's probably a combination of me and Akechi's age, but also if things about us come to light, then it shines a spotlight on all of them too," he explained.

Their corruption and arrogance combined with him being underage ironically helped them a lot with his fake death.

"Mm-hm, that does make sense." Anne nodded before biting her lip. "Look, Ren… about your parents—"

"Do you think I should forgive them?" Ren blurted out.

It ate him so much inside. He made sure not to squeeze her hand too tight, trying to reign in his emotions.

Anne's eyes went wide at his question and she… hesitated for a moment before speaking.

"I think… you should consider it. But you need to hear them out first. They… explained a little to me, the day of your arrest. I think it would shed a lot of light on their behavior. I'm not saying you should forgive them, definitely. I think… only you can decide that. But listen to them. Really listen to them, Ren."

He wanted to protest but it died in his throat. She wasn't being unreasonable. She wasn't saying he has to make nice with them. She was being quite fair in fact.

He let out a heavy sigh through his nose and a small nod.

"Okay… but they treated you fine, right?" he asked.

He wouldn't be able to condone his parents treating Anne poorly. Ever. That was just not negotiable.

Anne nodded. "Yeah, don't worry. Though, I swear your dad contributed very little to the gene pool, aside from your messy hair and the eyes. You take a lot after your mom in looks."

Despite his ambivalent feelings, he couldn't help but snort with a small smirk.

"Well, she always lamented that the hair's genetic," Ren said.

He recalled more than one instance where Mom had broken a comb in an (unsuccessful) attempt to tame his hair. He could just see her reaction if he had a kid in the future with messy hair like him.

Anne giggled, the sound music to Ren's ears. "Though, you could've told me that your mom's a retired idol! No wonder you're such a show-off every time we play BBR!"

He gave her a smarmy grin.

"You're just jealous of my skills."

Anne pushed him away and he laughed.

Anne scoffed, rolling her eyes. "You do extra dance moves and steps while playing. If that's not being a show-off, I don't know what is."

"Well, I have to play well when a kiss is at stake," Ren said, raising an eyebrow at her.

Anne slapped at his shoulder before she coughed, clearing her throat.

"Well… you can kiss me now, you know."

He actually paused for a moment. It had seemed more natural to go in for a kiss before his arrest. Well he needed to start making up for it.

"Well… if the lady asks," Ren said, sitting down on the couch and drawing Anne into his lap.

Anne smiled before he leaned in, kissing her gently. Anne's hand moved to cradle the back of his head and his arms went to her waist. It was a slow and languid kiss, the two of them enjoying just being in each other's arms. Ren would've been content to just sit there with Anne but then a voice cut through air.

"Anne? ANNE?"

Ren pulled away from his girlfriend, levelling a frustrated look at Futaba, who stood not far away from them.

"Can't this wait?" Ren asked, unable to hold back his annoyance.

Futaba snickered. "Nope, sorry Romeo. We talked about doing Valentine Day chocolates together at Haru's place! Makoto even got Fuuka-san and Minako-san to come!"

"Huh? They're here?" Ren said in disbelief.

Futaba rocked back and forth on her heels as she nodded.

"With Shido's powerbase crumbling they could afford it," Futaba said with a grin. "Fuuka-san's obviously here for Shinjiro-san and Akihiko-san and Minako-san came up here, since his paternal leave is running out and they wanted to do something big. That's what Ken said anyways."

Anne sighed before getting off of Ren and he was unable to hold back a pout. Anne giggled, bending to kiss his temple.

"Aww, don't pout, Ren. I'll spent plenty of tomorrow with you," she said, giggling. "And with chocolates!"

"But I want to spend time with you…" Ren grumbled out.

Anne smiled. "I know… but I'm sorry, I already made a promise with the girls. I'll stop by later if it's not too late, kay?"

"Fine, fine…" Ren huffed. "Have fun with the girls."

Anne beamed at him before kissing his cheek. "You should go hang out with the guys in the meantime. Love you!"

Ren watched them go, a small smile on his face even as Futaba griped to Anne about the display of PDA.

Even with his pending departure looming over their heads, things were looking up. Finally…

---

It didn't take a genius to see what the girls wanted.

Minako watched with amusement as the girls unpacked chocolate ingredients and molds. Haru, especially, had brought several types of molds and chocolate melts.

"Haru-chan, did you forget the kitchen sink?" Minako asked, unable to hold back a laugh.

Haru blinked. "I beg your pardon, Minako-san?"

Anne let out a laugh. "Figure of speech. Minako-san's saying we might have gone a little overkill with our supplies."

Haru gave a bashful smile. "O-Oh, well… I've never done this before so…"

They started to spread out all the supplies on the counter. Anne began to separate all the bowls they would be needing for the chocolate melts. Haru looked a bit embarrassed as she glanced over the large stack of different chocolate melts she bought while she pulled out the utensils they needed.

"It's okay, Haru-chan." Fuuka-san smiled, patting the younger girl's arm. "Everyone has to start somewhere."

"Do I have to remind you about your first Valentine's Day giving Shinji chocolate, though?" Minako couldn't help but tease.

Fuuka blushed, ducking her head. "W-Well, we had only been together for a few months by then… B-But Haru-chan doesn't have a partner, anyhow. She's just making friendship chocolate, right?"

"Y-Yes!" she squeaked out.

Haru began to fidget as she started dumping one of the milk chocolate melts into a bowl and placed it in the microwave.

"Wow, Haru, you might as well announce who you're sweet on," Futaba said, snickering. "It's so obvious you've got a thing for Inari."

Fuuka blinked in confusion, cocking her head. "Who's Inari?"

"It's Futaba's nickname for Yusuke," Makoto explained.

"Ohh… because of his mask?" Minako asked. "But you're sweet on Yusuke-kun, Haru-chan?"

Haru ducked her head but everyone could see how pink her cheeks had become. "I-It's well… He's just so kind to me. It feels like he understands me better than anyone."

Futaba started to snicker and sneaked up behind Haru and ran the whisk up her back. Haru squeaked and Makoto just took away the whisk and shook her head.

Futaba poked Haru's shoulder. "Hehe… sorry. But you know Haru, do you have any fox shaped molds?"

"I… would he like that better? I don't think so. I grabbed many but I don't think there were any foxes." Haru started to look through the molds.

Makoto sighed in exasperation.

"Futaba, stop picking on her."

Minako and Fuuka watched the younger girls with amusement. Minako has her elbow on the counter while holding her chin with her hand.

"Aww, man, I wish Ken-kun would tell me this kind of juicy stuff," Minako said, slightly pouting.

Fuuka just giggled. "Minako-chan, I think you're expecting a little too much of him."

"Well, he should pay attention to that kind of thing!" Minako exclaimed. She then turned to Kiyomi, who was sitting in her baby carrier. "Kiyo-chan, promise me that you won't be so dense like your daddy and Uncle Ken."

Kiyomi just gurgled in response.

"I think Akihiko-san would prefer it if you did," Makoto said with a small laugh.

"Don't jinx her like that, Makoto-chan!" Minako gasped, her eyes growing wide.

Futaba groaned. "Can we just get on with the chocolate making? I'm starting to think that I should've just gone with store bought…"

So far Haru was the only one who mostly got started, Makoto was cleaning off the strawberries at least at the sink. And… Anne was in the corner eating chocolate chips. The rest of course were just gabbing…

"Okay, okay!" Minako laughed. "So… any ideas for what you wanna do?"

Anne nodded. "Well, for Ren, I wanted to mix in some coffee into the chocolate. Boss really got him into coffee this year."

"That's a good idea, Anne. For me… um…" Makoto ducked her head but Minako saw that her cheeks had already started to go pink. "I-I was hoping that you could point me in the right direction, Minako-san and Fuuka-san. I know that Ken has received a lot of chocolates over the years and he's a bit picky with sweets, so…"

Minako and Fuuka exchanged a quick look and Minako couldn't stop herself from laughing.

"I guarantee that Ken hated like 99% of them," Minako said.

Minako almost laughed again seeing Makoto's panicked expression but stifled it because she didn't want to be rude. Not like she would know why Ken hated a lot of it. She kinda started to pity her. She's sure Ken will accept whatever his girlfriend made him, but it definitely would now put pressure on her knowing the truth of Ken's standards due to… his admirers.

"Dang, didn't know Ken was that picky," Futaba said with a snicker.

"There were some… um… interesting attempts from some girls. They really wanted their chocolates to stand out," Fuuka said, shaking her head before looking over to Minako. "Didn't one year someone attempted to make him chocolate covered persimmon slices?"

"Ewww!" Anne immediately recoiled at that. "They should've just gone with chocolate covered strawberries if they wanted to give him fruit too."

"I'm guessing they never realized his favorite fruit is oranges then?" Makoto asked.

Minako just grinned. "Ohhh, so you figured that out, huh?"

Makoto sputtered out, "H-Huh? I mean, it's in most of his bento lunches. Shinjiro-san gives it to him for a reason."

"I mean, you said it yourself. The others girls never figured it out," Minako said, snickering.

"Minako-chan…" Fuuka sighed out, shaking her head.

"But anyways, here's a little secret about Ken!" Minako had to smother a grin at this. "You see, Ken-kun actually really likes his chocolate spicy. You should add hot sauce!"

"Hot sauce in… chocolate?" Makoto blinked.

Minako had to fight the urge to laugh. She actually bought it!

"Yeah, look up spicy hot chocolate. It's definitely a thing!" Minako said, nodding furiously.

Makoto's brow furrowed, as if she was trying to decide if Minako was messing with her or not. Fuuka sighed, giving Minako a look.

"Ignore Minako-chan, Makoto-chan, she's just pulling on your leg. It's a joke—Minato-kun convinced Ken-kun once that he drank hot sauce with his coffee rather than cream and sugar."

"And Ken bought it?!" Futaba snorted with laughter.

"W-Well, he was only eleven, right?" Haru offered.

Fuuka just nodded and went back to opening up one of the other chocolate melt bags and pouring it into a bowl.

"Aww, Fuuka-chan, why did you have to ruin the joke?" Minako huffed.

"Don't be mean, it's her first Valentine's Day with Ken-kun," Fuuka admonished. Then she turned to Makoto. "As you know, Ken-kun doesn't care for sweets all that much… but there is one exception."

Makoto perked up at that.

"Really?"

"Mm-hm." Fuuka smiled. "He's partial to dark chocolate with caramel filling. With a little sprinkling of sea salt. I can show you how to make that, if you'd like."

Makoto nodded. "That would be wonderful, thank you. Do you think he'd like chocolate covered oranges as well? It was something I was thinking about earlier today."

"Hmm… he might, but sense this is a special occasion I think it's safer to go with what I know for sure will work for him, you could always test that later for a normal date." Minako suggested.

"Is Ken really that picky?" Futaba asked, raising an eyebrow.

"You'd be picky too if you received as much chocolate Ken did over the years," Minako said with a grin. "He'd get mobbed so much after soccer games. It was funny to see him be polite about the girls gushing about how cool he is while his eyes screamed 'HELP ME'."

Makoto rolled her eyes as she started to pour the chocolate Fuuka just melted into one of the molds.

Makoto then huffed. "That reminds me of Ken's first day of school. He got swarmed by girls that day too. I had to intervene to get them to leave him alone."

"But now you have a more effective way to stop them, no?" Minako teased.

Makoto's hand jerked at that and she wound up accidentally missing one of the molds with the spoon covered in chocolate. She muttered something under her breath before she quickly cleaned it up and moved back to carefully filling the molds again.

Makoto coughed, her cheeks turning pink. "I suppose… you could say that."

Futaba groaned. "Ugh, enough talk about Makoto and Ken giving each other goo-goo eyes."

And Makoto accidentally missed another mold again as her face turned red.

"Goo-goo eyes?!" Makoto sputtered. "We do not—"

"Sure, sure." Futaba flapped her hand at Makoto, only to slam her hands on the counter. "But I want deets!"

Futaba ignored Makoto glaring at her while she cleaned up the little mess and moved back to carefully filling the molds again.

"On…?" Fuuka turned, blinking at Futaba.

Futaba suddenly grinned. "Any embarrassing stories about Ken? I bet you have a gold mine!"

Makoto groaned as she finished up with the mold, placing it on the cookie sheet and got started on the next batch.

"Well…" Minako drawled out. "How about equivalent exchange? I still haven't dragged out how Ken-kun and Makoto-chan started dating from either of them. We just know that Shinji walked in on them and he asked Mitsuru-senpai if her scientists can develop mind bleach."

Futaba snorted with laughter and Anne giggled. Makoto's face turned red… again. Wow, and she thought it was easy to make Ken blush.

Haru gave a nervous giggle. "Mako-chan hasn't told any of us. It was all very private—"

"B-Besides, how Anne and Ren started dating might interest you more," Makoto blurted out.

"Makoto?!" Anne cried out.

"Oooh, really?" Minako turned to the blonde, suddenly intrigued. "So Anne-chan—"

"I plead the fifth!" Anne said hastily, her eyes wide with panic.

Fuuka blinked. "Isn't that an American law?"

"Not important!" Anne exclaimed, waving her hands. "A-Anyways, shouldn't we get back to actually making the chocolate?"

Haru giggled. "Yes, let's get back to it. Anne-chan, do you want me to show you how to brew the coffee? Ren-kun has shown me, so I think I have a solid grasp on how he likes his coffee."

"Yes, please!" Anne exclaimed.

---

"I'm home—"

Ken stopped short at the sight of Mitsuru-san sitting in the loveseat, idly sipping at a cup of tea. Shinjiro-san just shrugged when Ken looked to him for an answer.

"Don't ask me—she came in like an hour ago. Said she wanted to talk to you 'bout something important."

"Oh… I see," Ken said slowly.

Mitsuru-san just smiled at him, gesturing for him to sit. "I apologize for springing this on you, Amada, but… I felt this couldn't wait."

"It's okay, sorry if I kept you waiting."

Ken took the seat across from her and waited for her to speak up as she took another sip of tea. She gingerly set the cup back down on the coffee table and glanced back at him. Ken couldn't help but feel awkward, wondering what she wanted.

Mitsuru-san just chuckled. "It's quite all right, Amada. I understand that Amamiya was released today, it's understandable. How is he?"

"I think he finds it all surreal at the moment," Ken answered, "And um… Morgana is alive."

Mitsuru-san's eyes widened at that before her eyes softened. "That's wonderful. I'm glad to hear that."

But even then, there was a sadness in her eyes as she reached for her cup to take another sip. Ken sighed softly to himself. If only Minato-san could return to them like Ren and Morgana had…

"Yeah… we were quite surprised too. But happy all the same. But… what was it you needed to talk to me about?" Ken asked, hoping to redirect Mitsuru-san.

"Ah, yes." Mitsuru-san then lowered her cup, setting it down, before her eyes met Ken's. "Tell me, Amada. What do you intend to pursue after you graduate?"

Ken blinked. He had an inkling on what he'd like to do. But he wanted to keep that to his chest, a little longer.

"Well, I want to go to university," he answered, resting his hands in his lap. "Um… I know that I wanted to join the Shadow Operatives full-time before. It was something I would think of often when I was in junior high."

Mitsuru-san pressed her lips together. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Shinjiro-san going a bit… stiff. He had never liked that Mitsuru-san had allowed him to be part of the auxiliary team. And Shinjiro-san didn't like the idea of him coming to Tokyo, though he had eventually come around.

"Is that not the case anymore, Amada?"

Ken slowly shook his head. "Don't get me wrong… I think the Shadow Operatives are still important. But… I realized it's not the most important thing to me anymore. If you have need of me, I will gladly help you... always. But there are other things I'd like to pursue now."

"And there's nothing wrong with that, Amada," Mitsuru-san reassured him, then smiled gently. "Your time here has really matured you. Granted, you were always on the mature side but… I feel that you have come in your own."

Ken felt his cheeks warm. "I don't really feel that different, if I'm being honest."

Shinjiro-san snorted and Ken shot him a look. What was that supposed to mean? Mitsuru-san smiled at Shinjiro-san and nodded. That confused him.

Mitsuru-san just hummed. "Sometimes change is so gradual. You don't need to be modest."

Ken was about to protest he wasn't but Mitsuru-san's expression grew a bit serious.

"But… may I ask, have you thought about living arrangements?" she inquired. "For wherever university you choose to go to."

Ken nodded. "Um… I took examinations for mostly universities in Tokyo. For money, I've got some money saved up due to being put back on the Shadow Operatives payroll. I have enough saved up to be okay for a couple months, but I would need to look for a part time job."

Mitsuru-san tilted her head. "So, if you wish to stay in Tokyo… why not stay here?"

"Stay here?" Ken couldn't help but be flabbergasted. "I mean… we only live here because of the mission."

Shinjiro-san took Mitsuru-san's empty cup and headed back to the kitchen while they still talked.

Mitsuru-san chuckled. "Amada, the 'mission' technically stopped when you came clean with the Phantom Thieves. And it is under my family's name, not the Shadow Operatives. I would be happy to let you stay here, if you need housing in Tokyo."

Ken protested. "Mitsuru-san, you've done so much already for me… I can't ask you to just let me stay here with no rent."

Mitsuru-san's lips quirked up in an amused smile. "Shinjiro-san has really left his mark on you, hasn't he?"

"Hey, I'm not that bad," Shinjiro-san snapped from the kitchen.

"If you're sure, Shinjiro," Mitsuru-san dismissed with a wave of her hand and then she looked to Ken. "Amada… won't you consider it?"

"I don't know…" Ken said, biting his lip.

"Hmmm… might I offer a compromise?" Mitsuru-san offered. "Stay here for another two years. You'll be twenty by the time your second year of university ends. More housing options will be open to you once you're of age."

Ken tapped his foot and crossed his arms while looking at the ground, contemplating Mitsuru-san's suggestion. It was true that he would need Shinjiro-san's permission to be able to rent. And looking at Mitsuru-san, she seemed… really intent on this.

"Okay, okay, you win…" Ken grumbled. "Until I finish my second year of university."

---

Tuesday, February 14th, 2017

---

Ken started sorting out books on his desk, his classmates chattering around him, but then felt a buzz in his pocket. He reached in and pulled his phone out to read whatever message he received.

[Daichi]: Sooo

[Daichi]: It's your favorite day of the year, Ken :3

[Ken]: really, Daichi?

[Kazuki]: well, tbf

[Kazuki]: It always was fun getting chocolate from you

[Daichi]: and now we don't get ANY chocolate

[Ken]: so much for claiming that you have a girlfriend, huh?

[Daichi]: HEY

[Daichi]: I swear you've gotten even more sassy ever since you left for Tokyo

[Ken]: yes, you can blame Ren for that

[Kazuki]: are we ever gonna meet your friends from Tokyo anyways?

[Ken]: things got… really busy around New Year's, sorry. Maybe during summer break.

"Ken-kun! Good morning!"

Ken jumped from where he was absorbed in texting his friends. It was Haru, approaching him with her usual sweet smile.

"Good morning, Haru," he replied, slipping his phone in his pocket.

Haru smiled gently before she reached into her schoolbag, pulling out a small white bag with a pattern of pastel pink hearts and presenting it to him. "Happy Valentine's Day, Ken-kun! I just want to say—thank you for being my friend."

Ken felt his cheeks warm. "It was nothing, really."

"It's not nothing." Haru's smile turned to bashful. "I still think about how you and Mako-chan gave me the first push to really… start thinking about what I wanted. So… thank you."

"We just gave you a nudge, that's all." Ken smiled. "But um, thank you for the chocolates."

Haru giggled, holding a hand to her mouth. "Of course! I hope you like them. Minako-san, um… divulged about some of the interesting chocolates you've received over the years."

Ken just groaned. Of course, she would. He could only hope that Minako-san hadn't shared any embarrassing stories about him… or tried to convince them to put coffee and hot sauce together to mix in the chocolate.

"But um, Ken-kun…"

"Hm?" He looked up to see Haru fidgeting.

When she saw that she had his attention, she clasped her hands behind her back.

"I know you want to spend Valentine's Day with Mako-chan today…" she said slowly. "But I was wondering if I could get your advice on something after?"

Ken blinked. "Is this about Yusuke?"

Haru squeaked, her cheeks growing red. "What? N-No!"

Ken raised an eyebrow, skeptical of her claim. She pressed her lips together. She crossed her arms then and started to slightly fidget.

"It's not, honest! It's um… there's a reason why I'm asking you. I wanted to hear your perspective on an idea I have."

"An idea?" Ken couldn't help but feel confused, not quite following what Haru was alluding to.

"But another day," Haru said, waving a hand.

Before Ken could ask more about it, Haru scurried away. Ken couldn't help but stare, baffled.

"What was that about?" he thought to himself.

He then shook his head. Well, Haru said they'd talk about it eventually. He just hoped when he stopped by his locker later it wouldn't be practically exploding with love letters.

---

The school bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. Makoto watched out of the corner of her eye as girls rushed to press chocolates onto her boyfriend.

But still, she couldn't help but chuckle at the mildly disgruntled look on Ken's face. She didn't feel so much as a twinge of jealousy. Not when Ken so obviously was not thrilled with it.

"It's not funny," he muttered, all but pouting.

Makoto leaned in, pecking his cheek quickly. "Then don't pout about it."

"I'm not pouting."

"Uh-huh."

Ken huffed before shoving the chocolates in his bag. Makoto had to hold a hand to her mouth to stifle a laugh.

"I'll give these to Anne tomorrow," he grumbled out. "She'll be more than happy to eat them."

Makoto laughed. "And have Shinjiro-san scold you for encouraging her to eat more sweets?"

Ken rolled his eyes. "I'll live. I'm more worried there aren't some weird ones in there. I'd feel bad if I gave something like… well I'm sure Minako-san blabbed about it."

Makoto winced but giggled. She then wrapped both her arms around Ken's left arm as they walked side by side, she couldn't help but smile more seeing his disgusted look.

"She gave us some ideas… of the types you got." Makoto said sympathetically.

"Yeah… never gonna forgot those unfortunately." Ken involuntarily twitched but settled down quickly and smiled down at her. "But anyways, I was thinking… I know it's still a little cold but I thought it'd be a waste to just go to one of our apartments and spend the afternoon in. Do you want to go somewhere for a bit before?"

Makoto blinked. "Do you have somewhere in mind?"

"Uh… I saw something online yesterday?" Ken scratched his cheek for a moment. "I think it's called Hanegi Park?"

"Oh, Hanegi Park." Makoto smiled. "It's been a while since I've been there. I remember my parents took me there a couple times when I was a little girl. It's too bad that there won't be no vendors around, since it's a weekday."

"Vendors?" Ken looked at her quizzically.

Makoto explained. "Oh, well my parents would always take me around this time of year. There's some kind of plum festival and they sell specialized food and other knickknacks with the theme. I do remember that it's very pretty anyways so… I think it would be fun."

Ken replied. "Well, there's nothing stopping us from going again during the weekend. If you want to go, anyways."

"Let's go. I don't think I haven't been there since I was little." Makoto smiled, a feeling of nostalgia hitting her.

"Really?" Ken asked as they headed out together.

"Mm-hm. Dad had to pull more hours at work to support me and Sae." Makoto shrugged. "It is what it is."

Ken just took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"This is just telling me that I should've taken you out more," Ken mused.

Makoto just chuckled. "Well… things have been crazy lately. I'm just glad that we could make some time to spend some time together."

It really felt like they had hardly had a moment alone together since Christmas Eve. They only were able to go on a couple more dates before Ken had to stay inside the penthouse after they rescued him. So she could understand why Ken suggested this.

"Besides studying together?" Ken craned an eyebrow at her.

"Yes, besides that," Makoto said with a laugh.

They finally reached the station and took the nearest station to Hanegi Park.

The park itself was fairly modest. But seeing the plum blossoms… it was a sight to behold. While the plum trees weren't in full bloom, there were several branches with a mix of plum blossoms and buds. The sight of the soft pink blossoms made her smile.

"It's really pretty…" Makoto breathed.

"I'm glad you like it," Ken said and rubbed the back of his neck. "Looking into this made me realize that there was so much of Tokyo I haven't seen yet and I've lived here for nearly a year."

Makoto smiled, turning to him. "Well… maybe we should try to find more spots to go then. We finally have some time, right?"

Ken smiled. "Yeah… finally. Sorry it's been so long that we've been able to go out."

"Oh, Ken…" Makoto sighed. "It's not your fault. And besides, I liked those dates too."

She felt she got to see a different side of her boyfriend. It still made her smile, thinking about the times Ken would ramble on and on about Feathermen trivia. And even talking about spinoffs, like Zephyrman. Shinjiro-san occasionally came across them talking about it, flustering Ken by teasing him about his near-encyclopedia knowledge, but Makoto found it endearing.

And it made her happy to be able to share the interests that Makoto had hidden for so long. It had made her feel subconscious about her knowledge of martial arts but Ken found it interesting. He even enjoyed it when Makoto analyzed why she disliked or liked a fight scene.

Ken smiled sheepishly. "I liked them too. I just feel that we've only gone out a few times and we've been dating for nearly four months now."

Makoto chuckled. "Well, there's no time like the present, right?"

The park was small and quaint, but they still enjoyed walking through the park together. It was a little disappointing that there were no stalls, due to it being a weekday but Ken was right in that there was nothing stopping them from coming again. And the sights were beautiful.

But eventually they decided to rest their feet and sit at a bench, facing out the lake. Ken seemed to fidget.

"What's wrong?" Makoto asked.

"It's… well…" Ken suddenly looked to her; his eyes serious. "I wanted to talk to you about um… what university I ended up going with. I got into… Nihon University."

Makoto's eyes widened. "You did?"

Nihon University was a private research university. It wasn't quite the caliber of Tokyo University but… it was still a very good school. Makoto herself had chosen Waseda University. She had taken the entrance exam, not really expecting to pass… but miraculously she had managed to pass their exam, enough for Waseda to accept her.

Ken nodded. "I wanted to tell you first. I haven't even told Shinjiro-san yet."

"Really?" Makoto was speechless.

She knew that Ken had confided into her a lot, that she knew many things about him that he hadn't spoke about to their friends. But Shinjiro-san… he was different. He was a strange mix of both a father figure and an older brother to him.

Ken nodded. "Shinjiro-san will always be important to me… but I just wanted to tell you first."

"Ken…"

Makoto couldn't help but feel touched. But a sudden thought struck her and she cleared her throat.

"But wait, what about lodging?"

Ken sighed, shaking his head. "Mitsuru-san spoke to me last night. We discussed… a lot but she convinced me to stay where I am for now. Two years. She reasoned I would be twenty and I would have more options for housing when I'm an adult."

Ken looked exasperated, but a small smile came to his face.

"It's because she loves you," Makoto said. "But… what are you pursuing? As a major?"

"College of Law," Ken said. "But my major will be journalism."

"Journalism?"

But even as the question left her lips, it… made sense. Ken seemed rather interested in Ohya-san's work, speaking animatedly to her about the work process. Shinjiro-san even let her take him to Shimoda and he had talked to her about it quite a bit. He had… even ran into one of Ren's old friends, apparently his oldest friend.

Ken ducked his head, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah… Ohya-san kinda inspired me. And… I couldn't help but think, maybe there are other kids affected by crimes being covered up. Adults too but…"

Makoto squeezed his hand. "You don't have to explain that part to me, Ken. I understand."

Ken just gave her a grateful smile.

"And… I think it's wonderful, Ken," Makoto said sincerely, taking his hand. "I think it fits you. And… it fits a former Phantom Thief."

Ken smiled sheepishly. "Thank you."

The breeze around them started to pick up. It felt really nice. And the air smelt so beautiful. The mix of the water and the flowers. But even as she enjoyed the weather a question lingered in her mind.

"Though… what about the Shadow Operatives?" Makoto inquired. "Are you stepping down?"

Ken gave a light shrug. "It's pretty much the same as I am now. I will help out in emergencies. After everything, I realized… I wanted to do more with my life than just fight Shadows. And besides that, Mitsuru-san has already built up a strong base within the Shadow Operatives."

Makoto's eyes widened. "This means the Tokyo branch will be reestablished."

Ken nodded. "In time, Shido is behind bars now but there's still a lot of cleaning up to do."

However, something about what Ken said struck Makoto.

"So… it's not just SEES and the Investigation Team, who are Persona-user members of the Shadow Operatives?"

Ken looked out to the lake for a moment. "Mm-hm. You'd be… surprised. There are a couple more prolific members of the Shadow Operatives."

"Like…?"

"Kei Nanjo for one."

Makoto's eyes widened. "The Nanjo Group CEO?!"

"Mm-hm." Ken just nodded. "And Eriko Kirishima. And Eikichi Mishina."

Makoto frowned. "I know Eriko Kirishima is a fashion designer but… I'm not familiar with the last one."

"Oh, he's a rock musician. Junpei-san's a big fan. They're both auxiliary members. But Nanjo-san is pretty highly ranked, only below Mitsuru-san and Minako-san." Ken answered.

Makoto shifted in her seat next to Ken, crossing her legs and leaning closer to him. This revelation made her wonder just how big Mitsuru-san's network was.

"I see…" Makoto trailed off. "Are there any other Shadow Operatives in the police force? I'm kinda curious, between Akihiko-san, Chie-san, and Naoto-san…"

"There's one other I know of," Ken answered. "Katsuya Suou. He and his wife, Maya-san, are also part of the Shadow Operatives. I've never met them in person though. She isn't a cop though I believe."

"Oh that's interesting…" Makoto nodded. "Maybe we'll meet them some day."

"Maybe…" Ken said, nodding. "What about you, though?"

"Me?" Makoto couldn't help but be taken aback.

Ken smiled wryly. "You're in the same boat as me, you know. Mitsuru-san will probably ask all of you someday, but for now, she's more concerned about you and Haru. Since we'll be graduating soon."

Makoto bit her lip. "For so long, I've been trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my future. I think a lot of it is still in the air but… I think I would like to do the same as you. And… who knows? Maybe we'll be placed on the same mission together. Someone has to keep you out of trouble, after all."

Ken pulled a face. "Not you too…"

Makoto just laughed, leaning to kiss his cheek quickly.

"Can't I worry for you?"

Ken simply grumbled in response.

She then reached into her bag. Well… maybe this would help distract him.

"And before I forget… happy Valentine's Day, Ken."

"Thanks." Ken gave her a smile before tugging the ribbon loose and removing the lid.

Makoto bit the inside of her cheek, hoping that Ken would like the chocolate. She had gone with the typical heart mold. She thought it might be better to do something simpler. This was her first time after all.

Ken suddenly picked out one and took out a bite. Then his eyes lit up before he popped the rest in his mouth.

"So you like it?" Makoto finally voiced.

Ken nodded. "It was delicious. I like how you rolled in some nuts; it gives it a different texture. It goes really well with the caramel."

That had been an on-the-spur choice but Minako-san had complimented her on that.

"I'm glad… I wanted you to enjoy the chocolate. I've never done this before," Makoto admitted, with a sheepish smile.

Ken blinked. "Well… if it's from you, I would've enjoyed it anyways."

"Even though Minako-san and Fuuka-san are both excellent bakers?" Makoto asked.

Ken suddenly huffed. "You should've seen Fuuka-san before. I should know, I was one of the people she cajoled into being a taste tester. She only got really good once Shinjiro-san started to teach her about cooking methods."

His expression suddenly softened.

"Shinjiro-san made me learn how to cook during the same year. He wasn't… pleased that I brought home convenience store bento lunches."

"Well, they add a lot of preservatives and extra salt to help it hold longer. It was good that he had you learn how to cook!" Makoto sighed. "I had to teach myself when I was younger…"

She remembered Dad having a distant look on his face every time he put dinner on the table for them. Probably since… Mom cooked before.

So Makoto had resolved to start teaching herself how to cook, if only to lessen the burden from him. She'd use her allowance to buy cookbooks to learn recipes. Sae just about had a heart attack when she had walked in on Makoto standing on a stool, trying to cook some eggs.

Ken put a hand over hers. "I'm sorry about that. But my point was… you didn't have to hold yourself up to a standard. I'd be happy with anything you gave me because you went through the effort to give me something."

Makoto looked down at her lap. "I was overthinking it, wasn't I?"

Ken laughed, bending his head to kiss the top of her head.

"If it makes you feel better, I spent over two hours trying to figure out a spot to take you for today. And I'm sure I'll be fretting over what to get you for White Day in a couple weeks," he admitted.

Makoto chuckled, holding a hand over her mouth. And to think that he brought it up so casually.

"Well, I'll be happy with anything you come up with," she said truthfully.

Ken just laughed. "I'll keep that in mind."

---

"So… any plans for Valentine's Day?"

"Anne's coming over," Ren answered. "But she mentioned getting a last-minute gig so it'll probably be a little l—"

He was interrupted by the doorbell chiming. Anne came in right on cue.

"You should've told me sooner," Sojiro chided. "I would've left the shop to yourselves."

Ren snickered. Morgana darted out as Sojiro held the door open.

"Oh, I guess you should leave the lovebirds alone too, huh?" Sojiro chuckled before scooping Morgana up. Then he looked over to Ren, a knowing grin on his face. "Well, enjoy yourselves."

"We will, thanks," Anne chirped as she moved to stand next to Ren.

Ren moved around the counter as the door banged shut, hastily wiping his hands.

"Hey… sorry about that." Anne winced before giving her an apologetic smile.

"No worries," Ren reassured. "Shall we, my lady?"

Anne smiled softly. "I never thought I'd hear that again…"

Ren dropped a kiss against her brow. "I'll say it again. However many times you want."

Anne giggled. "I'll hold you to that."

After Ren made them some coffee and they had sat down together, Anne reached into her bag and drew out a box of chocolates, wrapped in gold with a bright red ribbon.

"Happy Valentine's Day, Ren!" She held it out with both hands, a bright smile on her face.

"Happy Valentine's Day," Ren echoed. "Was making the chocolate from scratch worth it?"

Anne giggled. "It was fun. Though, Minako-san almost made Makoto believe that Ken likes his chocolate spicy."

Ren snickered. "I'd pay good money for someone to actually do that to Ken."

Anne slapped his shoulder, a small pout on her face. "Don't be mean. And aren't you going to try my chocolate?"

"As my lady wishes." Ren chuckled before tugging at the ribbon, letting it fall to the table.

He lifted the box lid up, revealing several pieces of chocolates shaped like cherry blossoms. A few of them were a bit lop-sided, but honestly, that just endeared Ren to it more. He knew that Anne was a decent cook when she did try, but she struggled with some cooking techniques, like cutting everything evenly. So to think that Anne had made something just for him… it was a nice thought.

He picked up one piece before popping it in his mouth. The rich taste of coffee melded perfectly with the decadent sweetness of chocolate.

"This is really good!" Ren said.

"Yay!" Anne beamed, clapping her hands together. "I'm so glad! Haru helped me brew the coffee… Minako-san and Fuuka-san gave me some good tips when making the chocolate too! But I added a couple things too, like a little bit of vanilla."

Ren smiled. "You did a great job."

"Hehe… I'm glad." Anne's expression suddenly faltered and she reached up to brush a tear from her eye. "I'm just… really glad that you're here, Ren. That we could spend our first Valentine's Day together."

"Anne… don't cry," Ren said, taking her hand and gently squeezing it.

Anne just smiled, even as tears continued to fill her eyes. "They're happy tears."

But nevertheless, Ren hugged his girlfriend, kissing her temple. She wrapped her arms back around him and buried her face into his neck, her pigtail tickling his nose. Not that he minded.

"I'm sorry. I put you through hell."

Anne bit her lip. "I know we talked about it a little already but I really wished you had told me. Not just put in a letter…"

Ren sighed. "I'm sorry, Anne. Really, I am."

"It's okay, Ren. I understand. I'm just so glad I didn't leave when I almost did. I would feel awful knowing what I know now," Anne said.

She pulled her head back slightly from the embrace, still staying close but only pulling back her right hand to wipe her eyes.

"I wish you didn't feel bad about it. It's not—"

Anne interrupted him, giving him a wobbly smile. "Ren, it's okay. It's in the past. No need to dwell on it, we're together again. That, I'm so—so thankful for."

Ren nodded. "That makes two of us."

"And that just means that we have some time to catch up on!" Anne then ducked her head, her shoulders hunching over. "Before you have to move back to Shimoda at least…"

"Hey… It'll be just for a year." Ren tried to comfort his girlfriend. "Believe me, my bags will be packed the day I graduate."

Anne giggled. "I look forward to it. And well… in the meantime, I want to focus on my studies. I've been studying French and Italian since well—Paris and Milan are some of the biggest fashion centers in the world. Of course, I have English down pat. But once I have more modeling under my belt, I want to look to international gigs. I thought about looking into studying internationally but… I think I'll stay here for now."

"You'll do great, Anne," Ren said, his lips curving into a smile as he watched how Anne's eyes shone.

Anne giggled, ducking her head for a second. "Hee-hee, thanks. Your support means so much to me, Ren."

"I didn't do much," Ren said honestly.

Anne shook her head. "You listened to me. After everything with Kamoshida… that means the world to me."

Then she leaned her head on Ren's shoulder, letting out a small sigh.

"I love you, Ren."

Ren draped an arm around her waist, giving a gentle squeeze.

"I love you too, Anne."

They spent several moments, just enjoying each other's company. But then Anne slowly lifted her head, taking the moment to slide into Ren's lap.

"So… we have the place all to ourselves, right?" Anne said, batting her eyes at him.

Ren's lips quirked into a grin. "You heard Sojiro, didn't you? He said to enjoy ourselves."

Anne giggled. "Well then… shall we follow his advice then?"

With her sitting on him, it was all too easy for Ren to scoop her up in his arms, making her give a delighted squeal. Ren took a moment to bend his head and steal a kiss from her.

"As you wish, my lady."

---

Wednesday, February 15th, 2017

---

Ren's return to Shujin had been… eventful. Though nobody outside his friends and acquaintances really bombarded him, he could see people's eyes on him. And not in their usual manner, whispering like he was a curiosity at best. It was… weird.

But Ren was grateful to be back… even if he would be staying for just a few more weeks. Haru and Makoto had sought him out as well, each giving him a box of friendship chocolate. He was surprised to also get some from Kaori as well, before heading to find a story to cover for the school newspaper. He was even surprised Hifumi, Kawakami, Takemi, Chihaya, Ohya with Lala-chan all gave him friendship chocolate.

He ran into them all on the way home. Futaba gave him some friendship chocolate too before he left for school… he had way too much chocolate. Maybe he'll share some of it with Anne. He appreciated the sentiments from all his friends. But this was too much potential cavities in the making.

One downside was… him missing out on an entire month of schoolwork. At least he didn't have to take any make-up tests. That would've really been a pain. Grateful for Kawakami's assistance there and for covering up for his absence.

But Ren figured he should probably head back to Leblanc and get started on the catch-up work. He hoped Kawakami would finagle some extra time for him to study and catch up some time this week though.

But then Ren was suddenly snapped out of his musings when he heard someone yell his name.

"Ren! RENNNN!"

Ren caught Futaba by the shoulders before she could barrel him over.

"Whoa, where's the fire, Futaba?" he asked, taking a moment to fix Futaba's glasses which had been knocked askew.

Futaba gulped, taking a moment to wring her hands.

"It's… It's…"

"Don't just stand there, spit it out already," Morgana sighed.

"It's your parents, Ren!" she blurted out. "They're in Leblanc, waiting for you!"

It took a moment for her words to sink in.

"What?" Ren croaked out. "They're… they're here to see me?"

Futaba nodded. "Sojiro closed shop for them to talk to you but I ran to find you. I thought… you deserved a heads up before…"

She trailed off, biting her lower lip.

Ren took a deep breath even as his stomach did a flip. He suddenly felt anxious… like pins and needles were being dumped into his chest. Dread bubbling up inside him as his decent mood evaporated into thin air.

"Futaba… thank you," he mumbled out. "I can't go there now. I'll just go to the diner to study, then."

"Y-You're just gonna go?" Morgana asked.

"I can't!" Ren cried out. "I don't know what to think, not what with Anne told me… I'm just so… so confused. I don't even know how I should feel or think!"

Morgana sighed. Ren felt him climb out of his bag and onto his back, placing a paw on his shoulder. Ren still felt the pins and needles but paused still for a moment, looking to his friend.

"I know how you feel. But you can't keep running away from them. Don't you want to hear the truth from them, instead of from a secondary source?" Morgana said.

Ren stilled at Morgana's words.

Morgana shook his head. "Ren… you've been running away. You hang up when they call, you ignore their texts… it's not healthy. You have to address it. If only for your sake."

Ren bit his lip.

"Sometimes, what we fear the most is something we make bigger in our heads than it actually is, "Morgana's voice was serious but it became gentler. "And running away from it makes it worse. Talking it out with those you love, honestly and open, is scary. But it will give you some form of closure, you deserve that."

It suddenly occurred to Ren why Morgana felt so strongly about this. He understood from experience about not wanting to face your insecurities and hurt.

Ren let out a heavy exhale and ran his left hand through his hair, ran all the way to the back of his neck then he started scratching it.

Why was he so afraid? After everything they had gone through?Maybe it was because as Joker, he could fight back. But with this… he was at a disadvantage.

"You're right, Morgana."

"If only you said that more often," Morgana muttered out.

Ren quirked a half-hearted smile at Morgana's joke, but it didn't reach his eyes.

"Do you want me to come?" Futaba asked. "As… support?"

Ren smiled at her before rubbing the top of her head. "Thanks, Futaba. I appreciate it. But… I think I'll be okay."

Futaba bit her lip. "Okay. I understand."

"And… thank you for the tip," Ren said.

"O-Of course!" Futaba said with an anxious smile.

"Don't worry Futaba, I'll stay with him." Morgana nodded, slinking back into his bag.

Ren reached in to pat Morgana on the top of his head.

"Of course, I have my trusty therapy cat," Ren sarcastically said with low energy.

Morgana grumbled, "I'd normally make a sarcastic comment back but since aren't in a good mood, I'll let it slide."

Ren gave another half-hearted chuckle, before swallowing a huge lump. He did not want to touch that doorknob, but Futaba and Morgana gave him much needed moral support and he didn't want to back down. Especially not after what Morgana said.

"G-Good luck Ren." Futaba looked at him sympathetically.

"Thanks… I'll need it."

Ren squared his shoulders before taking a deep breath.

Okay, he could do this… hopefully.

He all but dragged his feet getting to that doorknob, but Ren found himself standing in front of Leblanc. He exhaled before his fingers found the door handle.

He forced himself to push the door open.

"Ah, you're back," Sojiro greeted.

Ren kept his eyes on Sojiro but he cleared his throat, shuffling awkwardly before he gestured towards the tables.

"You have a couple of visitors." Sojiro said evenly, but pity was in his eyes.

Visitors. That sure was one way to put it.

Finally, Ren forced himself to look at the couple sitting at the table closest to the door.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Sojiro staring at them. Ren fought the urge to sigh before walking closer.

He silently sat down, opposite of his parents. He hadn't laid eyes on his parents since their terse goodbye at the train station, before they shipped him off to Tokyo.

"Uh… I have to go get some groceries. For my daughter," Sojiro said in a stilted voice. "Have a nice talk."

Then he all but hurried out of the café, the door shutting behind him.

Ren just sighed, cradling his cheek in his hand.

'Really smooth, Sojiro…' he snarked to himself.

For several moments, an awkward silence stretched on and on. Morgana managed to slip into Ren's lap, under the table. His parents didn't notice, even as Morgana nudged Ren's side with his tail.

But Ren kept silent. He didn't know what to say. He was leaving it in his parents' court. It was on them to initiate.

They both looked at each other, his father looking down at his lap, while his mother bit her lip. She was the first to clear her throat.

"Ren… we're sorry," Mom said finally. "We should've listened to you with a cooler head instead of pushing and pushing at you."

"Yeah. You should've." Ren couldn't stop bitterness from seeping into his voice. "And it took you an entire year to realize you messed up."

"Ren—"

"Why?" Ren couldn't stop his voice from cracking.

He remembered what he'd promised Anne. But it hurt. It still stung, remembering his parents' disappointed faces. They had already decided that he had committed a crime.

"Why didn't you hear me out?!" Ren demanded, his voice catching in his throat. He forced himself to gulp for air. "Why did you side against me? Why didn't you believe in me?!"

For so long, he had gone without an answer. And now, facing his parents after nearly a year… brought all of his resentment and anger bubbling to the surface.

He could still recall it, as if it happened yesterday.

---

Ren felt like he was being boxed in, sitting in the detention center. He could feel the cops' eyes on him. A pair of younger cops were murmuring to each other, but with how they glanced towards him, Ren could tell that they were talking about him.

Ren glowered at them, though he bit his tongue so he wouldn't say something he would regret.

Why were they giving him the third degree, after he tried to do the right thing? For crying out loud, he was trying to stop a woman from being assaulted! Why was he the criminal here?

It was just… bullshit.

But suddenly the door opened.

A cop stepped inside, followed by… his parents, their faces stony. Ren cringed as they approached. This wasn't going to be pretty…

Mom pursed her lips together before she folded her arms in front of her and gave him the look. The look that screamed, "You're in trouble, Mister!"

As if he wasn't in enough trouble already…

But she stayed silent. The cop instead folded his arms over his chest.

"You lucked out, kid. Your parents were able to make bail for you."

Ren scowled. "Lucked out, huh?"

The cop then smirked. "Yeah… but your luck will run out. Especially during the court case."

"Thank you, sir," Dad said, his voice polite but firm. "We are allowed to take our son home now, yes?"

"Yes, yes. Your son will be assigned a defense attorney for his court case, unless you intend to hire one yourself."

"Thank you," Dad said to him, then looked to Ren. "Let's go."

Ren followed his parents to the car. He wasn't blind to the… glances his parents shared. They had such… mixed expressions. Concern… and disappointment. Ren's hands balled into fists.

They… didn't believe he was innocent. It was as clear as day.

The car ride was silent… Ren felt awkward, just sitting there. But he didn't dare break the silence. They eventually pulled up to the house, to Ren's relief. He got out, following his parents inside. Ren grimaced, walking in after them. He knew this wasn't over… might as well rip off the band-aid.

"Sit." Dad spoke for the first time, pointing to the couch.

Ren sat down, waiting for the explosion. The lectures. They had been lecturing him a lot lately…

Mom took a deep breath before looking straight at Ren.

"Ren, this is the first we hear about your whereabouts? From the cops?! What happened?!"

So much for staying calm… but Ren knew that Mom was always the more emotional out of his parents. Out of the corner of his eye, Ren noticed Dad was quietly watching them.

"Uh… well…" Ren grimaced. "I can explain…"

"Just what were you doing in the middle of the night anyhow, Ren?" Dad frowned sternly at him. "And what's more—you ignored our calls!"

Ren winced. His friends had been feeling restless, after a fun winter break. They hadn't been thrilled with being stuck in class again. They had all agreed to have fun, goofing around. They didn't want it to end, even after they had gotten chased by a cop for doing some parkour tricks. They had lost him though. But all the while… Ren hadn't noticed until it was too late that his phone had died.

"Just was with my friends," Ren muttered. "My phone died."

Mom threw up her hands. "Really? That's the best excuse you got? All your friends have phones, Ren! You could have used one of theirs to call us! Ren, how many times have we told you to call us when you want to stay out with your friends?! And you are far past your curfew! I just about died when we received the phone call! For all we knew, you had broken your neck with one of those stunts of yours! And what's more—you got arrested for assault! Do you know how serious that is?!"

"What were you even thinking?! Heckling a drunk man?! Assault Ren! It will follow you wherever you go!" Dad exclaimed.

That was what the cops said? That's bullshit!

"You've always found trouble so easily but… this… this is too much," Mom mumbled out, shaking her head.

They… believed the cops over him. They actually believed them over him? They weren't even entertaining the idea it was at least some horrible mistake!

"It's not what it looks like—" Ren tried to say.

"Really? Your oldest line you try when you're in trouble?!" Dad snapped out.

But the words were stuck in his throat. How could he begin to explain to his parents…

"I… I…"

Ren's eyes searched his parents' faces. They were… so disappointed in him. Angry… but disappointed. They had taken the cops' story at face value.

After everything today… this was the metaphorical cherry on top.

Of course, when he tried to do the right thing, he was punished. Stabbed in the back by the lady who he was trying to save. And of course, his parents would rather believe the cops than their own flesh and blood, their only son.

Something in Ren snapped.

"Are you even going to listen to me?!" Ren spat out. "It seems pretty clear that you have your minds made up! I screwed up, right? Why should I even bother explaining the real story to you? You won't believe me! I bet you think that I've turned into some kind of delinquent, huh?"

His parents looked surprised at that. Ren scoffed; he was done.

"Yeah, I thought so," he got up. "Screw this, I don't have to answer to you. You've already decided that I've screwed up my life. Why should I bother further?"

"Ren! Wait—"

Ren glared at them. "No! If you think I'm a criminal, then think it! I'm not gonna waste my time and energy with failing to talk you out of that! Believe what you want! I'm done being lectured by brick walls!"

Before either of his parents could reply, Ren stomped over to his bedroom and slammed the door shut. He locked it behind him too. He was not going to let one of them come in, he didn't care if they started banging on the door.

He collapsed onto his bed with a groan. This was… the worst night of his life.

---

Ren sighed heavily, pressing a hand against his face. He hated that he couldn't forget, that he couldn't… move on.

And yet, even as Mom flinched and winced, Dad remained calm.

"It's because we thought we had failed."

Somehow that simple statement pierced through his anger. He glanced up at them, bewilderment evident on his face.

"Huh?"

Dad took a deep breath. "Ren… I can't speak for your mother but I remembered the first thing that came to my head that night. And it was 'I failed Ren'. I thought… I made the same mistake as my father did."

Ren blinked, staring at his father.

"Is this where you tell me that your father neglected you and you're taking it out on me?" Ren deadpanned.

"Ren, don't talk to your father like that," Mom rebuked, giving Ren a stern glare. "You don't know—"

"Yuri," Dad interjected, holding up a hand. "It's all right."

Ren eyed him suspiciously. Dad then took a deep breath.

"I should've told you this a long time ago," he said quietly. "But when I was young, my mother died. I was the oldest of four children and I suppose… in a way, I lost my father as well. He worked himself to the bone to provide for us and I was left to take care of my siblings. And over time… we became distanced. And our distance became too wide to breach."

"Uh-huh…" Ren said slowly.

Dad explained. "He didn't understand my wants. He pushed me into a career choice I wasn't very interested in, insisting that it was for my good. I felt like I couldn't talk to him. And… I was afraid that's what happened with us. I had thought I had failed in what I had sworn the day you were born."

Ren exhaled.

"So, you jumped to the conclusion that I had gone delinquent. I thought you of all people would've known me better."

"Do you blame us for how many times you blew us off by claiming you were just spending time with one of your friends, only to find out that you nearly broke your neck doing parkour for 'fun'?" Mom asked, raising an eyebrow. "Ren… we love you, but you've always had the penchant for sticking your nose into something you shouldn't have."

She rubbed at her face before taking a deep breath.

"Ren, I only say this because we want you to understand. We were worried sick when we got the news. Emotions were high and… things came out wrong. We should've been calmer and asked for your side of the story in a better way."

Ren blinked. His mother's voice echoed in his mind.

"What happened?!"

That… was her way of asking his side of the story?

"You could've come off better," he said finally. "You were both just yelling at me and just going into lecture mode."

"We did come off as too strong that night," Dad admitted. "We were worried sick and… well it all exploded. I've run that night in my head countless times."

Ren huffed. "Yeah…"

"We really are sorry. And for not… being able to reach out since then," Dad sighed, bowing his head.

Ren silently eyed his parents, scrutinizing their faces. They were somber yet… there was an earnest look in their eyes.

"Why didn't you say anything to me then? Before I left?" he said warily.

"Ren… we tried," Mom sighed. "But you shut us out… every time."

Ren's brow furrowed.

Did he…?

He remembered the guarded, almost cold looks in his parents' eyes. Had he misconstrued what they meant because of his own hurt? He remembered Futaba's situation with her mom. Was he… misremembering how they looked at him?

"After talking about it, we agreed to give you space," Dad continued. "Obviously that was a mistake but we thought that we needed to let you calm down. And then… well…"

Ren almost motioned to take his false glasses off but forgot he ditched them after starting school again. He had no need for that mask anymore, the need for it was long gone.

He then exhaled, rubbing at his eyes. He felt like an idiot. All this time… wasted. Being bitter when they could have talked sooner if his parents were actually ready to hear him out.

"But… Sojiro said that you told him that I was a pain in the ass," Ren said. "And… you didn't even wish me a happy birthday this year.

His parents shared an alarmed look.

"He said what?!" Mom scowled, a dangerous light entering her eyes. "We—we never said that! We were frustrated but we… never said those exact words! I'm going to have words with him later…"

Ren held a hand up, the last thing he wanted was Sojiro to get in trouble after everything they've been through. Sure, he was a hardass at first, but so much has changed since then.

"Mom please, it's fine. He's done a lot for me, it was a rough start, but he probably only said it to… I don't know, make me stay in line or something…" Ren rubbed the back of his neck.

"But still…" she frowned.

"Mom… it's long passed. I didn't bring it up so you'd rake Sojiro over the coals." Ren pleaded.

She let out a heavy sigh. "Alright. I'll let it go."

She leaned back in her seat and relaxed a little. His father however sat up straighter. Ren turned his attention to him; it was clear he wanted to comment on what Ren said.

"Well, as for your birthday… didn't you receive our package?" Dad genuinely looked confused. "We sent you a care package, with some sweets from the bakery back home, a book of your favorite Shakespearean plays, and…"

He trailed off and sighed heavily.

Wait… a Shakespeare book? Ren wracked his brain, trying to remember if he ever got a package like that.

Packages in late May or early June…

He could've sworn the only packages he got were from the Sunday shopping program—

"Wait no, could it be…?" Ren thought.

"I guess you never got it… maybe the package got lost? But I swore I got a confirmation from the tracking number that it was delivered," Dad said, his brow furrowed. He then pinched the bridge of his nose. "Postal services can seriously be so dicey…"

"Give me a sec," Ren spoke up, making his parents look at him in surprise.

Morgana immediately shifted to the booth seat, allowing Ren to get up. Ren then went upstairs and grabbed what he thought his dad was referring to, shoved into his desk drawer. He returned to the table, holding up the book.

"Did you mean this?"

Mom gasped. "W-What? That was not how we sent it to you!"

Ren sighed, eyeing the waterlogged book ruefully.

"There was a thunderstorm and it got dumped outside of Leblanc pretty late. The package got torn and I couldn't even read the packaging slip. The book got pretty beat up and the cookies… well, I had to dump them in the trash."

Mom's face fell and she bit her lip. "I-I see…"

They did care… Ren felt a new pit form in his stomach. But this time one of guilt.

He never messaged them as to why they never got him a gift for his birthday because he was so bitter still about their fight and assumed he got no present. As for this gift, it didn't say who it was for, so he and Sojiro kinda shrugged the damaged box off, especially sense he couldn't even read who it was for.

It was a string of bad luck for his parents, and Ren assumed the worst due to that. It felt like some kind of bad joke. Had he reached out even back then, perhaps things could have sorted themselves out.

"We… we're sorry Ren. We should have messaged you to make sure you got your present. But we were so… hesitant that you'd just hang up on us. But even still we should have texted you about the package," his father sighed.

Ren rubbed his neck as he tried to ignore the pit that kept growing in his stomach.

"Speaking of which… that was another thing I didn't get… why didn't you try to talk to me over text?" Ren asked.

His parents grew quiet.

"I remember holding my phone. Slowly typing messages and just… deleting them," Dad said with a heavy frown. "I just… couldn't think of the right words to say to you. I didn't know how to convey my feelings."

Ren sharply inhaled. He remembered how his heart would leap when he got a text message… only for his hopes to be dashed, upon seeing that it was a message from Ryuji or Anne. He had hoped so much in the first couple months that his parents would say something to him.

But he slowly lost more and more hope as the months crept by. He had thrown himself into the Phantom Thief work, as well as spending time with his confidants.

He didn't need them, that's what he had told himself to make himself feel better.

"That makes two of us, I guess," Ren finally admitted. "I was so sure that you didn't care… it felt like you were just ignoring me."

"We did handle it very poorly. Perhaps if we had reached out sooner… maybe it wouldn't be so… messy," Mom said.

"Why did you reach out then?" Ren asked.

His father paused for a moment, reaching over to hold his mother's hand as she nodded at him.

"My sister, Sora, reached out to me last October," Dad explained. "I hadn't spoken to her in nearly twenty-five years. She left me a voicemail. She apologized to me in it… and to Yuri."

To… Mom? To be honest, Ren didn't know the full story about why Dad was estranged from his family. Just that they didn't approve of Mom for some reason. So Ren had really only known his mom's parents, as extended family went.

"But Sora explained to me that our father had passed last August and it was a wake-up call to her."

Dad's voice made Ren snap back to attention. He then gave a sheepish smile, rubbing the back of his neck.

"I'll be honest, I deleted the first voicemail before she even finished talking. But… she didn't give up."

"It got Junto thinking… maybe it wasn't too late for us," Mom said gently.

The question was… was it too late for them? Ren wasn't sure…

Mom studied him closely, a small frown on her face. Then… she looked over to Dad, their eyes meeting. Dad gave a slight nod and Mom, in return, smiled sadly at him. Then she looked back to Ren.

"But Ren… Junto and I have been talking," Mom said carefully before she took a deep breath. "After seeing all the friends you've made this past year, it seems that you were really happy in Tokyo. You've left such a strong impact on them. We would like to try and start over with you but… we can't force you, if that's not what you want. Your needs are the most important."

"So, if you want to, we will arrange for you to stay in Tokyo," Dad finished. "It doesn't have to be with Sakura-san necessarily. Unless of course, you prefer. But we will find you housing so you can finish your schooling in Shujin. If that's what you want."

Ren's eyes widened. They would let him stay in Tokyo…?

"I…"

"But if you choose to stay with Sakura-san we're adamant you won't stay in that attic. I don't care if you even like it Ren. You deserve a proper roof over your head that is not some dusty—"

His mother trailed off in some ramble, something about properly meeting his needs and something about an apartment but her words drowned out, he wasn't really listening as everything of this entire conversation was truly sinking in.

He never expected this outcome from this conversation and the part that he found the oddest was his mixed feelings he was starting to have. One part of him wanted to say yes but another part of him wavered.

Why?

He loved Tokyo. It was his home now. He came to love Leblanc like his home. He had his friends here, he had Anne. He'd be able to see them every day…

So why was he hesitating?

"I… need time," Ren mumbled.

"If that's what you need, that's fine," his dad said with a nod. Then he turned to Mom. "Come on, Yuri."

Mom nodded, rising to her feet, but Ren noticed that she gave a little sniffle, her hand drifting up to brush a tear from her eye.

Ren's heart dropped to his stomach, watching his parents go. The door slammed behind them, the bell jangling loudly. It was quiet for several moments, until Morgana broke the silence.

"Do you… feel better?" Morgana asked.

"No... I…"

If anything, he felt even more confused about his parents.

"It's okay Ren, it's okay to not know how to feel. I'm proud of you for facing them."

"Thanks Morgana," he sighed to himself. "The next hurdle will be explaining you."

Morgana just chuckled. "One thing at a time. Let's worry about that later. I'm with you though, no matter what."

Ren smiled gratefully at Morgana, pulling him close. Thankful he didn't complain about it.

---

Thursday, February 16th, 2017

---

It had been a while since Ken had to handle classroom clean-up duty but he didn't mind. He got to skip it during the near-month he was under house arrest anyways. It provided a sense of… normalcy.

But he was done now so he had grabbed his bag and headed out. It hadn't been Makoto's turn to help clean the classroom but she mentioned she was going to go to the library. Normally both of them didn't mind waiting for the other, but Makoto had yet another thing on her plate.

She had been asked, as student council president, to write a speech for Graduation Day, just a few weeks from tomorrow. Ken offered to help her practice but she said she'd like to get at a complete draft down before she let him see.

Seeing Makoto was probably out. He should probably at least check up on her, make sure she's drinking water still. But then his phone suddenly buzzed. Ken fished it out of his pocket, noticing a text from Ren.

[Ren]: hey Ken

[Ren]: I was wondering, do you have time today to talk? I need some… advice.

Ken raised an eyebrow. First Haru and now Ren was looking for advice. Though, granted, after talking to Haru yesterday afternoon, he understood why Haru insisted that it had to be him.

[Ken]: Is there something wrong?

[Ren]: I… guess? I'm just confused about something and I was wondering what you'd think.

Ren was many things but easily confused he was not. Ken frowned. Well, if Ren needed advice that bad, he wasn't opposed.

[Ken]: I'll meet you at Leblanc. I'm still at school but I can be there within the hour.

[Ren]: OK. thanks

After texting Shinjiro-san saying that he'll probably be coming home late, Ken went to catch a train to Yongen-jaya. Unfortunately, since it was time for everyone to go home from work, it took a while.

But soon enough, he was stepping onto the Yongen-jaya station and heading to Café Leblanc. Sakura-san was standing at the bar, wiping at the counter. He looked up when Ken entered.

"Oh, hey," he greeted. "Are you looking for Ren?"

Ken nodded. "Yes, Sakura-san. He asked me to come over."

Sakura-san frowned. "Yeah… that makes sense."

"Huh?"

"Never mind that." Sakura-san waved a hand. "But Ren should be upstairs."

That was weird. Why was Sakura-san behaving like this? Did he know what was bothering Ren?

Ken sighed to himself. Well… only one way to find out. So, he climbed up the stairs to the attic, where Ren was sitting on his bed. He absentmindedly petted Morgana, who was on his lap.

Morgana raised his head.

"Ren… Ken's here."

Ren seemed to snap back to reality, his eyes shifting over to Ken.

"Uh… hey. Thanks for coming over."

He then took Morgana off of his lap, gesturing for Ken to join him on the bench. Ken thought to initiate the conversation but he stayed quiet. The look on Ren's face was… tense, his jaw clenched.

"My parents came to see me yesterday."

Suddenly everyone being off made a lot of sense.

"I see," Ken said after a moment. "How are you feeling?"

"It's—" Ren sighed, pressing a hand against his face. "I don't know how to feel. They told me their side of the story. Dad explained some… stuff to further explain his reaction. I guess I kinda understand their reasonings but I'm just… so confused on what to do. How I should feel. I did some thinking last night. And I needed some… advice, I guess. I know that you disowned your crappy uncle and all. Am I a bad person for being mixed on about whether or not to let them back in?"

He sounded so… vulnerable. Ken bit his lip as he racked his brain on how to respond.

"I guess my first question is… did they ever ignore you or your needs?" Ken sighed. "My uncle doesn't live in Port Island. But when I met him, he basically ignored what I tried to tell him about Mom and told me that I shouldn't focus on that. I should really focus on my studies."

"He told a nine-year-old that?!" Morgana spoke up for the first time, sounding flabbergasted.

Ken looked down at him; Morgana was curled up right by Ren's feet.

"There's a reason why Minako-san was ready to deck him when she first met him," Ken muttered.

"Did she, though?" Morgana asked.

It was clearly evident from his tone he was hoping the answer would be, yes. Ken just sighed, shaking his head.

"Akihiko-san stopped her so she wouldn't get arrested," Ken answered. "But to answer your question, it really wasn't much of a choice on my part. I didn't need to stop and think about it. My uncle… wasn't much of a presence in my life. But was it the same for your parents?"

Ren was quiet, looking down at his hands in his lap. "No… I remember my parents always sitting down with me when I was a kid. Helping me with homework and other stuff… Mom even helped me with training my voice, when I showed an interest in drama. I guess it's not the same."

Ken leaned against the back of the bench. Crossing his arms and tapping his left elbow with his right finger. Trying to think of the right words to say next. He paused a few more seconds, and took a short breath.

"I will say—I know both sides of the coin. Remember how I mentioned that Fuuka-san basically cut off her parents when they pushed her to break up with Shinjiro-san, due to them believing that he just held her back?"

"Sheesh…" Ren muttered. "What's their damage?"

"They were difficult people from what I've heard," Ken said.

He never had the honor of meeting the Yamagishis in person and he wasn't interested in it.

"But it was both that and the lack of genuine care for her that contributed to her breaking ties with her parents," Ken finished.

Ren raised an eyebrow. "And that would be?"

"Ignoring the fact she was missing for ten days." Ken scowled.

Ren sharply inhaled at that. "So, they 100% deserved it."

"Yep…" Ken sighed. "She's that much happier for it."

"Who's the other 'side' then?" Morgana asked.

Ken took in another short breath, relaxing his posture more as he sat back against the bench.

"Yukari-san," Ken answered. "She and her mother were not on good terms after her dad died. They were estranged for ten years, but Minato-san and Minako-san noticed that she was not 100% sure on her choice, that she worried for her mother. They eventually encouraged her to reach back out to Takeba-san and they made amends, after working out everything they left unsaid."

Ren could only nod. But his expression was troubled.

Ken sighed softly. "Ren… I'm sorry if I couldn't give you more perspective. But the choice is yours. Only you can decide if you want to fix things with your parents. You're not a bad person if you think you don't want to fix things with your parents. It may have been unintentional but they still hurt you. There is also nothing wrong with you if you do want to forgive them."

Ren just looked down. "They said they'd make arrangements to let me stay in Tokyo for my final year if I want to. That I just had to tell them that I wanted it."

Ken raised an eyebrow. The fact that he sounded so… unsure was interesting. Because Ken knew that Ren loved Tokyo now.

The fact that he was wavering… might mean that deep down, Ren did want to make amends with his parents. Ken had to admit he didn't know what to think about the Amamiyas now, after Anne and Makoto had reminded everyone of their own mistakes.

But the fact that they were still… trying, after everything meant something. Of course, Ren wasn't obligated to forgive them. Anne and Morgana probably knew best about how Ren felt about his parents' lack of faith in him but Ken knew enough of the story.

"Do you want it?" Ken asked.

"Yes… I do." Ren groaned and rubbed his eyes, "But still! I don't know why I'm hesitating…"

"You're probably still processing it," Ken said gently. "Trust me… it changes everything once you hear the other side of the story. Minako-san once told me a saying—there are three sides to a story. The two parties' sides… and the truth, which tends to be somewhere in the middle."

Ren's eyes widened. Ah… looked like Ren caught his drift.

But then Ren sighed heavily, rubbing his forehead. "And I thought everything would be resolved, with Shido behind bars. But I… I don't know, Ken. I really don't know…"

He then bit his lip. He hated that he couldn't help, not entirely. Ren just looked so… conflicted. But before Ken could prod him about it, he suddenly spoke again.

"What about… Akechi?"

Ken started at that, his eyes widening. "That… I'm not sure about."

His gaze then lowered to the ground. After learning from Niijima-san that he had turned himself in… Ken wasn't sure what to think. A part of him was relieved that Akechi was finally willing to face his crimes but… another part of him felt resentful that he had been hiding away during this entire time—if Akechi hadn't fled, then Ren wouldn't be forced into turning himself in.

And another part of him wondered what Niijima-san had said to finally reach out to Akechi.

"It's… complicated," Ken said finally. "He tried to hurt not just me, he wanted to kill you. Not to mention, he suggested that we ought to… kill Shinjiro-san. He misunderstood me so much."

Ren was quiet. "I think… he was jealous that you were able to rise above everything."

Ken just inhaled deeply.

"Maybe… I don't know if I'm ready to face him, either way. But… I don't think that it's really comparable. We only met once as children and I had to think hard to remember it, to boot," Ken said softly before raising an eyebrow at Ren. "And it's not like your parents were a part of some conspiracy and killed a lot of people and tried to kill your friends… but I digress."

He… didn't think his feelings for Goro Akechi would never not be complicated. But they were veering from the main point of their talk.

"Um… do you mind me asking what your relationship was with your parents before everything?" he said after a moment of hesitation.

Ren shrugged. "I don't think there's much to go into. I'm an only child, my parents had me like several years into their marriage. They got married when they were twenty-eight and I was born six years after. They always told me that they wanted to focus on their careers for stability before having kids. My parents both grew up with their families having to pinch pennies, from what little they told me. My mom became a teen idol partially to help her parents financially."

Ken winced.

"My mom worked out a deal with her former agency, she works to help mentor their new idols," Ren continued. "Teaching them dance and singing routines, stuff like that. Dad… he works for the city government. They were pretty busy. I remember sometimes coming across Dad working late at night. He used to swear me to secrecy because Mom would get mad at him working so hard."

He smiled sadly as he recalled it.

"I see," Ken said.

"It's just… I don't know. The good memories feel so… distant. I just feel bitter about this all." Ren let out a depreciative laugh. "God, what's wrong with me…?"

"There's nothing wrong with you, Ren," Ken said, trying to give him a reassuring smile.

When Ren didn't reply, he reached out and put a hand on his friend's shoulder.

"You're allowed to be upset about it. If you don't want to, you don't have to forgive them. They hurt you, whether or not if it was intentional."

"Anne told me the same thing." Ren sighed heavily. "It just feels like my head's all messed up. I don't know what's right. Shouldn't it be simple?"

"Unfortunately, it's not always that simple, Ren." Ken smiled ruefully.

Things would be a lot easier if that was the case but… Ken had learned a long time ago that there were two sides to a story. Since he had realized this, he had tried his best to be more open-minded… more understanding. He wasn't perfect, he slipped back with Makoto's sister. But he was thankfully reminded how he acted wasn't fair.

But Ken can't decide this for Ren, this was something he has to decide for himself if he wants to build back that bridge.

"But… don't feel bad. Sometimes you need time to sort out your feelings. You just learned about your parents' side of the story, right?"

Ren could only nod.

Ken sighed, stretching out his legs; he was starting to get a little stiff. He had to be careful though he wouldn't accidentally kick Morgana. He rather not get clawed at for that.

"So, I think you need to give yourself time. I know that you went to me for advice because well… you saw firsthand how I kicked family out of my life for good. But… I think you also need to hear about the other side," Ken advised.

"Like Yukari-san…?" Ren asked.

Ken shook his head. "A little closer to you, actually. I'm talking about Haru. I mean, we all know that Okumura hurt her badly but she still loved him and wanted to make amends with him, once he had atoned for his crimes."

Ren could only nod.

"Yeah… you're right," he said quietly.

Ken just smiled sadly. "But if you need to talk about it with me, I'd be happy to lend an ear."

"Heh…" Ren just cracked a smile. "Thanks, Ken."

---

Friday, February 17th, 2017

---

And so, following Ken's advice, Ren went to visit Haru the following day. Haru was delighted to have him over, happily brewing him coffee and offering him several snacks. She even brought out things for Morgana to enjoy.

Once they were seated together, Haru spoke.

"What's wrong, Ren-kun?"

Ren took a deep breath before explaining to Haru about his conversation with his parents. After he had told Ken about his family life pre-Shido, he also went into with Haru. Haru was quiet, watching him carefully with her hands folded in her lap.

"And well… that's really it," Ren muttered. "I just… I don't know. Hearing them gave me a different perspective but I feel uncertain. And I thought, since you wanted to make amends with your dad… your perspective might help."

"I see." Haru bit her lip, taking a deep breath. "There's no denying that Father did awful things. He abused his employees. And… he neglected me and was prepared to use me as a bargaining chip. He lost his way."

Ren just bowed his head. And yet, despite that, he knew that Haru loved Okumura still. Watching her mourn him… was not easy.

Haru's voice was melancholic, her eyes now downcast. "There were so many things I wanted to ask him. And it still saddens me that I never got the chance."

"But why do you still—"

"Love him?" Haru finished for him with a weak smile. "I think… it's because I still remember vividly of the man he was. And I mourn that man still. I like to think that he was still there, just buried deep."

The sad thing was that Haru would never know. If the kind man she remembered was still there. Her chance for closure… had been snatched away from her.

"But forgiveness is a choice," Haru continued. "You can choose to forgive your parents still, Ren-kun. You can choose not to, as well."

"Ken said that to me too," Ren couldn't help but comment.

Haru smiled gently. "But… do you mind if I share what I think?"

"About what?" Ren asked.

"Is it safe to assume that you always were fond of your parents?" Haru inquired.

Ren blinked. "I mean, sometimes they'd get on my nerves. Like Mom trying to wrestle a comb through my hair or nagging at me to clean up my look. Or Dad saying I shouldn't mess around with my friends as much."

Appearance had always been big for Mom. If Ren had a fit of laziness and didn't dress 'nicely', she wouldn't let him out of the house.

"But you'd say you had a good relationship with them, up until Shido?" Haru prompted.

Ren nodded slowly. "Yeah…"

Haru bit her lip. "This is what I think… when you were accused and you perceived your parents would never be interested in hearing you out, it ripped away your perception of your parents. You were left shaken—understandably so. You were forced to remove your rose-tinted glasses in regards to them."

Ren's eyes widened. He… was starting to suspect that deep down. He didn't expect to hear it repeated back to him.

"I remember that Futaba-chan had to remember the truth about her mother," Haru went on. "That… her mother didn't hate her. Her belief that Isshiki-san did was further enforced with the faked suicide letter. I think this happened, but to a lesser degree with your parents. You were upset and pushed them away. But with them staying their distance, it also enforced in your mind that they didn't care."

Ren swallowed, suddenly feeling a lump in his throat. He had remembered what Futaba went through as well. Not that their situations were the same… but still…

"Y-Yeah…"

"It's true that this debacle has… changed you," Haru said gently. "Maybe you can't go back to how your family was. Not 100%. But I think there's a worth in still trying to connect with them. Mako-chan has been so happy ever since she and Niijima-san have managed to talk things out."

Even as she said it, her eyes grew sad.

Haru might never fully recover from Okumura's death; he hoped that wouldn't be the case. But maybe… she would be plagued with the what ifs for the rest of her life.

A month or two ago, Ren would've answered with full confidence that he would be able to walk away from his parents for good, once he had graduated from high school. But now?

He wasn't… sure.

Haru was probably right, his family couldn't go back to how they operated before he crossed paths with Shido. Ren had changed too much since then.

And… Ren wasn't sure about seeing the rest of his friends. Or everyone in Shimoda…

But looking back at his conversation with his parents, Ren couldn't help but feel foolish. He had thought that his parents had abandoned him… all but hated him, but he hadn't bothered to look deeper.

He had only looked at the surface at the situation. Like… how he had felt the people in Shimoda had.

A small tension headache formed, he started to rub his forehead and temples as he looked down at his lap.

Maybe he wasn't ready to fully forgive his parents. There was still hurt.

But… he didn't feel comfortable walking away, not after everything he's learned.

And that left… only one option.

---

Saturday, February 18th, 2017

---

Makoto dipped her wooden spoon into the curry, letting out a pleased hum as a rich spicy-sweet taste reached her tongue. Perfect. She hadn't believed Ren when he told her that a bit of chocolate powder would make the curry taste better at first, but there were stranger things. Like Anne telling her once that her grandmother added baking powder to her hot cocoa to make it thicker and richer.

She set the spoon down and turned off the stove. The rice was warming in the rice cooker, so all she had to do was plate the rice and drizzle the curry on top. She then went to Sae's room, knocking on the door.

"Sis?" she called out. "Dinner's ready."

There was no response. Makoto let out an exasperated sigh before easing the door open.

"Sis?"

Sae finally looked up from her desk, which was practically flooded with papers. "Makoto? Is something the matter?"

Makoto sighed, folding her arms over her chest. "Sis… dinner's ready. When I called for you, you didn't reply so…"

Sae let out an exhausted sigh, rubbing at her eyes. "Forgive me, Makoto. I've been studying my case notes and I was just so wrapped up in it…"

"It's all right, Sis." Makoto bit her lip. "So… it ends tomorrow, right?"

"Not quite… Shido's trial will be after this trial." Sae sighed again. "But I think with Akechi-kun's testimony, it'll be more of a close-and-shut trial. As simple as it'll get."

Simple. It was almost ludicrous that Sae would describe Shido's trial like that. Makoto hoped that Shido's testimony would be enough to implicate all of the big players in the Conspiracy… and if they were lucky, maybe they would be able to bring the Kirijo Group scientists to justice too.

Makoto finally said. "That makes sense. But you should eat dinner, Sis. You'll need it for tomorrow's trial."

"You're right." Sae gave her a tired smile. "I'm sorry, let's go sit down and eat."

Sae pulled out two utensil sets for them to use and poured out the tea. Makoto plated their dinner and they carried out everything to the dining table. Sae sat across from her.

"So… what did you do today?" Sae asked.

"Oh, um, well…" Makoto trailed off. "I think I have the first draft for my speech done. Ken read it over and aside from a couple of suggestions, he said it's really g—"

She broke off as she realized that Sae wasn't looking at her. No… she was looking at the family altar behind Makoto. Her eyes were distant.

"Sis?"

"Huh?" Sae blinked rapidly before she sighed, pressing a hand against her temple. "I'm sorry…"

"Is something the matter? Why are you looking at the family altar?" Makoto asked carefully.

Sae exhaled before looking down at her plate. She then picked up her utensils and took a bite. Makoto just drank her tea and waited for Sae to respond.

"I was… thinking about Dad, actually."

Makoto looked at her, eyes wide. Last time they had 'talked' about Dad, it didn't… turn out well. It still stung a little even after Sae apologized to her.

But Sae looked so unsure. They should be fine… right?

"What about him?" Makoto finally said.

"I... wonder if he's ashamed of me, for losing my way." Sae sighed as her gaze became pensive. "I treated you poorly but you forgave me for it. Not to mention all those poor lives I've condemned... I wouldn't blame him if he hated me for this."

"Sis…" Makoto trailed off, unsure what to say.

Because she was right. There would be no taking that back. Maybe the statute of limitations hadn't expired for all of those cases but…

It was undeniable that Sae had done several horrible things to ensure a winning streak. But still… Dad was a compassionate man.

"I think Dad would be happy that you found your way again," Makoto replied sincerely. "If he saw you before your change of heart… I think he would be more sad than angry."

Sae was quiet, her lips twisting into a grimace. "Maybe Akechi-kun and I are more alike than I realize…"

"Oh, Sis…" Makoto said with a soft frown.

Sae turned to her, clasping both her hands together tightly. She rested her clasped hands on the table and her whole posture became stiff.

"It's true, you know. Akechi-kun… would bring up his mother to me on occasion. And I know now that her tragic death was what set him on his current path."

Makoto bit her lip. "Sis…"

"You and Ren-kun saved me, you know," Sae said quietly. "And… that's what motivated me. You didn't give up on me… I had to go and find him, to try and convince him to turn himself in."

Makoto sharply inhaled at that, looking at her sister with wide eyes. Sae had been the one to convince Akechi to turn himself in. That… she didn't expect that.

"But with the trial… I'm anxious. I hope I'll be able to make things right," Sae sighed out. "And I wonder if Dad would think about all of this…"

Makoto bit her lip, still reeling from the earlier information. But she couldn't dwell on that right now.

"Um, Sis… do you mind me asking you something?" Makoto asked as she slightly tilted her head.

"Hmm?" Sae looked at her quizzically. "What's wrong?"

Makoto took a breath. Before, she had been too scared to bring it up. But now… things were different. Sae was different.

"What did you really feel when we got the news that Dad died?" she said quietly.

Sae paled at that. For a moment, Makoto considered taking back her question. But then she spoke…

"I was… angry. I couldn't help but wonder why he had to leave that night. Why… he left us behind." She sighed heavily. "I know… you don't remember much of Mom. And it can't be helped. She passed away when you were so young, after all."

Makoto just bowed her head. She couldn't refute what Sae said.

"But… with Dad, it was different. I was only thirteen when Mom passed and so… Dad took care of all of the arrangements. It felt different. But with Dad… it was on me; I was responsible for arranging the funeral. I was constantly reminded that Dad was gone. And whenever people spoke of him, it was about how he was a man who always pursued justice… his accomplishments. Not who he was as a person. I felt angry and bitter about the entire situation. And… eventually I started to resent him. For… leaving us." Sae just gave Makoto a bitter smile. "You must think I'm awfully self-centered."

Makoto shook her head quickly. She didn't want her sister to ever think that.

"What about now?" she inquired instead.

Sae's lips suddenly trembled. "I miss him still. I never let myself admit it before but… I miss him. I wish… he was still here. I know that the man behind Dad's death is behind bars now, and I'm glad for it. But… it won't bring him back."

Makoto's frown got heavy. That, she could sympathize with.

"I just wish I could talk to him. Just one more time," Sae sighed out. "Maybe I would be able to shake off this feeling then."

"For what it's worth…" Makoto said slowly. "I think Dad would be proud. That you've been working tirelessly. You were the one to start looking into reversing Ren's record after your heart changed. Even when you doubted it was easy, you were the one to start looking into it. You… didn't give up on Akechi. You managed to appeal to him… somehow. And… you'll be the one to make sure that Shido and… hopefully all of his associates face the music. Yes, you've made many mistakes when you lost your way. But you made it back."

Sae's eyes looked glassy and she swallowed hard.

"Makoto… thank you."

---

Sunday, February 19th, 2017

---

Breathe in. Breathe out.

Sae pressed a hand to calm herself, trying to will her racing heart to slow down. This was it.

It was funny… she had worked so long, looking into the culprit of the mental shutdowns. But now… she was looking at the finish line.

She hadn't expected it to turn out this way. The one ally—no, the one friend—she thought she had… was the culprit. A part of her was nervous about this, almost as nervous as she was during her first case.

But… she could do this. She was going to pursue her sense of justice.

Even if… she had to face Goro Akechi in court.

Although she stood alone in court today… she knew she wasn't alone. Her sister, her friends—their allies—were counting on her.

"Court is now in session, for the case of Goro Akechi's involvement with the mental shutdowns case."

Sae took a deep breath, levelling her eyes at Akechi-kun, who sat in the defendant's seat. His expression was impassive. She shot him a sympathetic look. He looked back at her, an unreadable expression on him. He then glanced away to his left.

Right… it was time. She raised her eyes to the judge.

"The prosecution is ready, your honor."

---

Annnnd that wraps up Chapter 55, the bulk of the aftermath of Ren's release. The next and final proper chapter will cover Akechi's trial, among other things. And if anyone's curious, I won't be writing Shido's trial. Akechi's trial is important due to the focus on getting Akechi to face the truth as well and his relationship with Sae. I do wanna add there will be a couple of other conversations Akechi will have in the next chapter. I will touch on a bit on Shido's allies' punishments as well, in a scene though!

I already have Shuann's White Day date partially written and it'll be released in Full Deck when I get it done (hopefully for Shuann Week this year).

But the Amamiyas' relationship won't be fixed in a day. There's still a lot of hurt, but Ren decided that it's worth building up again. I thought them offering Ren to stay in Tokyo would make Ren's choice more poignant.

And yes, Ken's career choice is going to be criminal journalism. Which does make a certain part of P5T rather amusing for me. I thought it would be a good choice for him but he will remain an auxiliary member of the Shadow Operatives.

Also a big shoutout to my wonderful beta angelrin89. We were talking about Morgana's disappearance between Christmas Eve and Ren's release and… she had the funniest idea for why Morgana took so long to come back. She also made some great polishing to the chapter as well, so a big thank you to her!

I would love to hear what you guys think. Reviews are love~