A/N: Hi! The art dump (part 2 of the series) on AO3 has been updated with some more NaruMai doodles! One doodle of which is the phone scene from chapter 19, if you'd like to check it out.
*Warning for mention of suicide in this chapter*
Mai's thoughts = Italics
Gene talking = Bold italics
Previously…
Gene studied her with a hand to his chin. I'd only been joking this whole time, but now I'm starting to wonder... actually, I've been wondering about it for a while.
She tilted her head in curiosity. "About what?"
He looked conflicted like he was debating asking or not. After a sigh, he looked her straight in the face.
Do you have feelings for my brother?
Not expecting the direction of his question, she blinked, her cheeks warming. She went quiet, averting her gaze.
"…Probably."
Interlude: Of Ghosts and Homewreckers
Gene widened his eyes, his bottom jaw-dropping. He wasn't sure why he was so surprised. He'd noticed the signs way back when, starting from her blossoming friendship with Noll through the emails and texts.
Normally, Gene would call it a lost cause and help her move on, but… to be honest, he was surprised at how responsive Noll was to her. Despite what Mai thought, he didn't initiate with Masako.
He initiated with her.
And that was coming from the idiot scientist's womb buddy. Noll had never been easy to read, especially when he was showing affection. One thing for sure was that he preferred gestures and actions to words. In Mai's case, Gene could easily name more than ten times she'd been on the receiving end. Whether Noll was aware of it or not was a mystery that Gene was inclined to answer "no."
Mai's indifference was one of the reasons for their relationship's organic development—she didn't fall for his facade. Then, to add her innate talent for finding danger, ability to ignore Noll's boundaries, and presentation of rare psychic abilities, it was virtually impossible for him to ignore her.
What about Mai? How did she end up catching feels for Noll? He didn't seem like the type of person she would typically go for.
Or was he?
Having observed the two bozos for the last year, Gene at least knew that her feelings didn't stem from infatuation—they were something deeper, built from all they had gone through together. While he had already noticed a change in their relationship prior, there was a noticeable shift after the mountain incident.
Were her feelings quite love? Gene wasn't sure, but he didn't think it was too far off either.
"How long have you been aware?" he asked her, watching her fidget from the other side of the TV screen.
After seeing her smile to herself after talking to Noll, Gene couldn't help the warmth in his chest. He'd always worried that Noll would be a loner, studying his life away and burying himself in research—but maybe there was some hope.
"Honestly? Since now," she said, smiling sheepishly. She rested her hands in her lap and leaned against the wall. "But I did notice things haven't been the same. It's different now whenever he gets close, or looks at me."
Gene nodded, not responding so that she could process her feelings. She glanced at him before hiding her face behind a plushy. "It's kind of embarrassing telling you this."
"Hey, I'm the emotionally intelligent one. You're safe with me," he grinned, hoping that would ease her embarrassment.
She sighed, tucking a bang behind her ear like she always did. "I guess it doesn't matter if I talk to you about it since he's with Masako. Better to get it off my chest."
That made him frown. "I wouldn't say that. I can tell you he doesn't feel the same way about her," he said. He debated bringing up the blackmailing he knew was at play, but decided against it.
"Doesn't mean he feels the same way about me either." She kept her gaze ahead, not looking at him. "Besides, our goal is to find Gene. I didn't take this job to get with his twin," she said with a goofy smile.
Gene smiled, a tender one from the bottom of his heart. "Don't use me as an excuse, you goof," he said. "I'm sure he appreciates that it wasn't your priority. You don't know the number of girls who throw themselves at him for that purpose until they find out about his awful personality. That's where I came in to soothe their souls." He smirked, ignoring Mai's eye roll.
"Oh, please." She laughed, looking at him again. "I'm sure you both were heartstoppers. Did you have any girlfriends?"
"A few," he said, "but they were only short-term."
"What about Naru?"
He gave her a joking stink-eye. "What do you think?"
She laughed. "I'll take that as a 'no.'" Suddenly, her demeanor changed to something meek. "So… since you're his twin, do you think Masako is his type?"
He blinked a few times. "Pfft!" He burst out laughing, more so after noticing her pout. "Why do you want to know if you're not planning anything?"
"Can't I be curious?"
He gave her a knowing look. "You would think Hara-san is his type, but in my opinion, his type of girl is more bubbly, loud, kind and generous, doesn't let him get away with crap, is not too proud, probably some kind of psychic, and is the poster child for trouble, someone he can protect," he said casually, fingering his bangs for good measure. Did ghosts need trims?
"That's kinda specific," Mai said, tapping her chin. "Not that I'm planning to become his type or anything."
Oh, for the love of-
"Don't think about it too much or your head will implode," he said, rubbing his temples.
She glared. "That was so uncanny I almost got offended."
"Go to bed. You have school tomorrow."
"Yeah, yeah."
The rest of the spring semester flew by quickly. Life was busy between studying for exams, having Madoka at the office, and Naru potentially hiring Yasu after his exams.
Madoka had family in Japan and visited them when she wasn't working. Otherwise, she took over Lin's office doing who knows what. When Mai asked what company she worked for, Madoka had merely brushed it off as "some small foreign company."
Mai was doubtful, but it wasn't her business anyways.
Aside from that, having another woman in the office was nice—someone else who forced the workaholics to eat and take breaks. In fact, Madoka often accompanied her to get tea and snacks as an excuse to get out.
"Ooh, those are Naru's favorites," Madoka commented when Mai picked out two blueberry scones. "Luella makes the best ones."
"Really? I didn't know," Mai said, surprised. "I kinda just got the inkling to get him some one day. He liked them enough, so I've been getting them since. It goes well with Earl Grey."
Madoka smiled with a glint in her eye, turning her attention back to the other pastries. "Do you always experiment with different things to see what he likes?"
Mai tilted her head in thought. "I guess I do? Only with snacks though. I know he likes apples, grapes, blueberries, and persimmons but only if they're not too soft. He hates bananas and tolerates pears," she said, a finger on her chin. "I was craving mint dark chocolate once, so I put a bowl on my desk. They were gone by the next week and I'd barely eaten any, so I think he likes those too."
"You sound like a mother hen, or maybe a girlfriend."
"I-I do the same for Lin-san! Let's see, he likes candied beans, plums, and oolong tea!" Mai tried to cover, making her sure she faced away from the other woman.
Nice, said her head gremlin.
"I think it's cute that you look out for them," Madoka said, placing a strawberry roll on their tray. "It's either me or Luella who usually does that. She'll be happy to know someone's here to nag them."
"I can only nudge them," Mai said, rolling her eyes. "Doesn't mean they always eat what I give."
Madoka giggled. "Man-children, they are. Martin's the same way."
The two finished at the bakery and picked up some tea leaves before returning to the office.
As they walked, Mai fidgeted with her bag as she debated asking her question. Eventually, she built up the courage. "What was Naru like back home?" Maybe she could gather more info on where "home" was.
Madoka seemed to ponder on the question, running through her answers. "About the same. A workaholic with only eyes for research. He worked under me, actually!"
"Wow. What about school? Doesn't he attend classes?" That was a question Mai had always wondered about. Gene never said anything about it and sometimes she forgot Naru was only 17. Considering how smart the guy was, she wouldn't be surprised if he was already done with high school.
"Let's say he has skipped a few grades," Madoka said as they ascended the stairs toward the office, a finger to her lips.
Once inside, they cleaned up, made the tea, and plated the pastries, intent on snacking in the waiting room.
"Let me ask Koujo if he wants any," Madoka said. "Knowing him, he's probably fasting or something."
"Okay." Mai figured this would be the best time to bring Naru's tea. She balanced the tray in her hands carefully as she walked over. Before she knocked, her fist froze mid-air when she heard another voice inside. It was noticeably female—she wondered if it was Masako. Curious, she knocked. "Naru, do you want tea? If not, I'll leave it in the kitchen."
There was a moment of silence before he told her to come in.
Shrugging, she let herself in and found Masako seated in front of him with a delicately wrapped box on his desk. Treats, maybe?
"Hi," she said awkwardly. She placed the tray on his desk, avoiding eye contact despite being keenly aware of his gaze on her. "Masako, I didn't know you were here. Do you want a cup?"
"That would be lovely, thank you."
"Sure. I also got pastries if you would like some? I have a bunch in the kitchen if you want to pick something out."
Masako glanced at the blueberry scone on the tray. "I'd like to take a look," she said, following Mai out.
As they walked by, they didn't notice Madoka's eyes following them into the kitchen as she sipped her tea.
"I got some pastries from Paris Croissant down the block. They have a good selection," Mai said, getting the other girl a teacup from the cupboard. "Do you want Earl Grey or green? I made both."
"Green, please," said Masako, quietly looking over the pastry selection. After plating a tart, she broke the silence. "What does Naru like to eat?"
Mai blinked, not expecting her question. Wouldn't she know this stuff already?
"Oh, um, he likes blueberry scones and mint dark chocolate. He doesn't like bananas and prefers apples to pears. Blueberries and firmer persimmons are good too," she said off the top of her head. "Why?"
"I would like to start bringing in food and snacks for him," Masako said, her eyes determined. "That way, you won't have to worry about it."
Mai felt herself freeze up. "It's never been a problem, really! I've been doing it for so long it's second nature," she said, hoping her nerves weren't evident in her voice.
Masako smiled. "Mai. I want to do this for him, please," she said firmly. She wouldn't take no for an answer.
Lacking a coherent response, Mai nodded reluctantly, her fingers gripping the kitchen counter.
"Thank you." With one last look, Masako took her teacup and plate and left.
Mai stood in place for a few moments longer, listening as Masako's footsteps disappeared.
Guess that was a bad time for me to check up on you, said Gene. Was it just me, or was that kind of tense?
That got a wry smile out of her. It wasn't that bad. I was just surprised to hear her ask that.
…Didn't it bother you?
Well, yeah, but she is his girlfriend.
I don't know. Seems fishy to me.
Ayako said the same thing. Technically, she got to him first and I know not to cross that line again.
Again?
Let's say I got into a fight over some guy in middle school. The same guy called me a freak the next day when he caught me talking to a ghost.
You dodged a bullet there!
And that's why I'm not desperate for a boyfriend.
Even though you have admirers at school?
That's only according to Michiru and Keiko! And I don't even know why. They'd all be scared off if they found out that I talk to ghosts daily.
You don't know that. Heck, I think that Takata guy wouldn't care. He knows about your job, after all.
Mai didn't respond, mulling over his words. He wasn't wrong, and Takata seemed like a respectable guy.
Madoka suddenly popped her head around the screen, making Mai jump. "Geez, you scared me!"
"You were here for a while after Hara-san left, so I was worried something happened."
Mai waved her hand to dismiss the concern. "Nothing to worry about! I was talking to Gene," she said, leaving the kitchen. "Let's have our tea before it gets cold!"
Madoka watched her as she passed by, a single brow lifting. "So, something did happen," she mumbled to herself.
"You're not going to get into college with that work ethic," said Yasu, playing with the straw in his drink.
Mai, whose face was planted on her notebook, groaned. "We've been at it for hours." She looked up at him, chin resting on her book. "Break time?"
Yasu chuckled. "Did you get through at least half of the questions I wrote for you?"
She nodded.
"Hopefully, you used the right equations. Otherwise, I'll make you do them again."
Her jaw dropped. "Why is everyone around me a tough teacher? What happened to the gentle approach?" she complained, sitting up and rolling her shoulders.
He grinned. "Sounds to me like the universe wants you to study."
The two packed up and left the cafe they had perched themselves at since 8 that morning, heading for a nearby park Michiru had told Mai about earlier in the week. Something about paranormal downpours—it sounded simple enough for Mai to investigate herself.
After all, she used to go on paranormal expenditures by herself all the time. Her last one gifted her a blessed mirror and a guardian deity. She would be surprised if future escapades yielded her as great of results.
"Michiru said that she and her boyfriend randomly got drenched out of nowhere last weekend," she told Yasu who tagged along. "There wasn't rain or anything. She was so spooked she wouldn't come back until I checked it out."
"A special case with the boss!" Yasu pumped his fist.
Mai laughed. "Don't be expecting a paycheck," she said, rolling her eyes at his fake disappointment. They continued their idle chatter throughout the rest of their journey, only stopping when they spotted their destination up ahead.
"Is it me, or does that group of weirdos look familiar?" Yasu said quietly, leaning down to her ear.
She squinted, attempting to get a better look. She sighed having identified a head of red hair and a blond foreigner. "That's because they are."
As if on cue, another familiar head of pink hair popped out and waved towards them. "Hey! I thought you two were off today."
Mai waved back. "We are," she said, looking around to see who was present, "but my school friend asked me to check out this park." The group was Madoka, Naru, Masako, John, Ayako, and Bou-san.
"Are you doing private investigations now, Jou-chan?" Bou-san asked, interested.
"I used to go around helping spirits out all the time before I met you guys," she said, sticking out her tongue playfully. She shrunk back when Ayako leaned toward her and Yasu suspiciously. "What?"
"And what were you two doing? A date, perhaps?"
Yasu grinned and wrapped an arm around her shoulder. "Totally! Went to a café and everything!" he said, ignoring Mai's pointed look.
"To study," she corrected, poking at his arm.
Someone's throat cleared, redirecting everyone.
"If you're done socializing, I'd like to get this case over with." The now-official object of her affections crossed his arms. Telling from the tone, Mai knew he was annoyed—she figured he didn't like them standing around chatting idly.
"Is it the same situation Mai-chan came to investigate?" asked Yasu.
"If it's about couples being spontaneously drenched, then yes," Masako answered. "A family friend asked for my help because they're trying to shoot a drama here."
And Naru is your help? Talk about overkill and a waste of resources. And why does Madoka-san need to be here for this too?!
Naru raised his brow, which she returned with a half-shrug vocalizing silently, "Am I wrong?"
The faint twitch of his mouth as he looked away was affirmation enough.
Eyes flickering between the two, Masako wrapped her arm around Naru's. "We devised that acting as decoys would help lure the spirit out," she said before clearing her throat.
"As Naru and I are the best-looking couple, it's only natural that we're paired together."
Ayako scoffed. "You look like siblings to me," she said, flicking her hair back.
"Well, I'm just here for the entertainment. Care to join me, Brown-san?" Madoka smiled, mischief laden beneath. John, being the sweet guy he was, went along for the ride. The two perched themselves on a nearby bench to feed the birds. The exuberant one of the two sent a peace sign with her hand.
"Since Mai-chan and I are off the clock, we'll just go about our business~"
"Now, wait just one minute, Shounen," Bou-san said, pulling Yasu over to the side and undoubtedly lecturing him about some nonsense Mai would rather not know.
Pleased with the pairings, Masako smiled smugly before walking off with Naru. From the look she sent, Mai wondered if she was trying to taunt her. She rolled her eyes and shook her head. At least Naru looked uninterested as always.
Grumbling from beside her diverted her attention to Ayako's pouting. "Of course, she takes the cutest one, but whatever. They won't lure out the spirit that way. They look like brother and sister!"
That got a smile out of her. So petty, but she's not wrong.
The last two pairings ended up being Mai with Yasu and Bou-san with Ayako.
"Why did I have to end up with her?" Bou-san stared soullessly into the distance, not unlike someone from an old R music video.
Mai giggled, giving him a comforting pat on the back. "I don't know, Bou-san. You two look kinda cute," she teased.
"WHAT?!" Both adults yelled. She and Yasu flinched away to save themselves the saliva shower.
"It's like in one of my sister's manga. The handsome rocker gets tamed by a feisty rich girl, unveiling both of their hidden soft sides." Yasu added fuel to the fire, a hand on his chin.
That ended up yielding a louder reaction than expected.
Mai stuck her tongue out playfully at them. "How does it feel to be on the receiving end of the teasing? Not so fun, is it?" She grabbed Yasu's wrist before booking it, knowing her next line would have them seething.
"Have fun on your date, you lovebirds!"
Madoka and John, who spectated from their cozy bench, chuckled at the group's antics.
Meanwhile, further away, Masako shook her head at the ruckus. She brought her unoccupied sleeve up to her face. "How rowdy."
Naru didn't reply, instead watching the scene, his eyes unconsciously following the hand Mai had wrapped around Yasu's wrist.
Masako's grip on his arm tightened, bringing his attention back to her. "We should go somewhere quieter."
He nodded.
"I was recently contacted to investigate one of the ex-prime minister's homes. Did you also receive the same request?"
"I did."
"I hear they also invited the British psychic, Oliver Davis," she said, her voice taking on a mocking tone. "Laughable don't you think?"
"The shameless will do what they can for attention."
"Indeed." They walked in a comfortable silence, the rest of their team's voices in the distance. Masako exhaled, allowing herself to enjoy Naru's company.
She knew what she was doing wasn't right, yet, she couldn't let him go.
He was Oliver Davis, a psychic prodigy with a doctorate under his sleeve. He was as blessed appearance-wise as he was brilliant. What started as admiration had grown as she continued to work with him, seeing slices of him that not many in their space could—his brilliance, work ethic, and especially his unexpected kindness towards spirits and even to other people.
She identified with him the best out of everyone she'd met. They were both reserved, accomplished psychics with years of experience despite their young ages, and were both good looking. They were the perfect couple. Not to mention that she was only one who knew his identity.
It only made sense that they got closer.
But then, there was Taniyama Mai.
At first, Masako didn't view her as a threat. She actually liked the girl, not that she would admit it out loud. It wasn't until she caught glimpses of Mai's interactions with Naru that she started to question the extent of Mai's feelings for him.
Mai also seemed to know more about Naru than she let on, though, Masako wasn't sure of how much. For that reason, Masako couldn't give up her hold on him just yet.
As esteemed as she was, Hara Masako didn't have what Taniyama Mai had.
Mai brought a finger to her chin, looking around the park. Whatever spirit was here didn't feel very strong. Honestly, she could barely feel anything at all. She closed her eyes and scrunched her brows, trying to get anything.
"Feelers not working?"
She raised a brow. "Like on a bug?"
"Yeah. Is that not what it's like when you use your sixth sense? Like using metaphorical antennas to feel out your environment?"
Her mouth opened, about to argue until she thought on it. "I guess when you put it like that."
Hmm… he might be on to something.
Mai couldn't help but imagine how the two would've gotten along if Gene was still alive. Initially, the idea sparked joy in her but was quickly overtaken by a deep sadness, almost like regret. But why? Regardless, she shot it down quickly before either of her companions noticed her change in mood.
Strangely, even though neither Yasu nor Gene had noticed, something in her gut just knew that Naru had felt it. But how? Was this a new development in their weird connection?
She'd have to test out her theory later somehow.
Yasu's hand waved in her face, bringing her back to reality.
"I guess I'll have to get used to that," he said, a thoughtful hand on his chin. "I'd like to think you heard from our perp, but now I'm unsure."
"Don't worry about it," she said, waving him off. "Honestly, I haven't felt anything here. But that's not my forte. Masako's better at that."
Yasu looked thoughtful as they aimlessly walked, drawn in by a fountain nearby. "I'm trying to remember from my readings about the different psychics. Hara-san is spiritual medium. And you're some other anomaly, right?"
Oh, that was right. She forgot that Naru was having him do readings in preparation for his full-time position. It was kind of inconvenient considering Yasu also had to study for his exams, but this was Naru—he wouldn't have him do it if he didn't think he could.
She glared at him. "Who are you calling an 'anomaly?' You sound like Naru," she said, playfully swiping his arm.
Yasu indulged her and pretended to be wounded. "Hey, it's not my fault if I'm learning from the best!"
And before they even had a chance to blink, they yelled out in shock as water poured over them. They blinked at each other astonished until they both burst out laughing.
"How dare you be all cute and then laugh off my punishment!" said a mysterious woman's voice, one only vocal to Mai's ears.
Footsteps approached them from behind along with the rustle of a paper bag.
"Taniyama-san?!"
Mai turned around, expecting to see someone from SPR but was surprised to see her classmate. "Takata-kun? What are you doing here?"
"I was taking a shortcut through the park when I heard your yelp," he said, scratching his head, his other hand holding a bag of groceries. His eyes flickered between her and Yasu. "Why are you all wet? Did he try to pull something on you?!"
Before she could answer, Masako and Naru ran into the clearing with the other members in tow. "Naru, I feel it over here!" Masako said, getting more sluggish the closer she got. Abruptly, her knees gave out mid-sprint, sending her to her knees.
"Masako!" Mai called, running over. Before she could get close, two unexplainable downpours drenched her from head to toe. "Wha-"
"That's what you get, you two-timer!" Masako stood and pointed a finger at her. Telling by the unfitting voice and theatrics, the park's spirit must've possessed her. "It's people like you who are the scum of the earth!"
Not-Masako looked at Yasu and waved her hand, drenching him too. "And you should be ashamed, you homewrecker!"
"Why am I the homewrecker?! I was here first," Yasu objected, shaking his head at the clear injustice.
"Uh, what's going on here?" Bou-san's brows scrunched in confusion as his eyes flickered between them.
Ayako, Madoka, and John stood to the side with their hands covering their mouths like they had just witnessed a scandal. Naru looked extra unamused—if that was even possible.
"Ohoho~ I didn't realize you were such a heartbreaker, Mai-chan," said Madoka.
"Nothing isgoing on!" Mai yelled in frustration, pulling off her cardigan and squeezing out the water. She pointed her finger at Not-Masako. "You need to get your eyes and ears checked. Neither of them are my boyfriends!"
Takata looked around at the group and sighed in relief when he spotted Naru. "Oh, I see! You're working. For a second there I thought you were on a date, Taniyama-san."
Not-Masako looked at Mai pointedly, gesturing to Takata. "Not for long they aren't."
As oblivious as he was, Takata picked up the meaning of her words and blushed.
Embarrassed, Mai unconsciously adopted Naru's habit of rubbing the bridge of her nose. This has to happen on the ONE day I'm off.
Speaking of Naru, he exhaled deeply through his nose, a tinge of a scowl on his face. "Enough of this nonsense," he said bluntly. "We're here to complete a job."
"And who are you to be-" Not-Masako stopped mid-sentence when she finally got a glimpse of him. Her face flushed and she practically floated over and latched herself to Naru's arm, rubbing her cheek against it. "No one told me someone so handsome was here!"
Despite the ridiculousness of the situation, Mai couldn't help but feel her frustration simmer upon seeing Naru's already unamused face turn increasingly sour. Nothing was better than having the attention turned to someone else, even if it meant some other girl ogling Naru.
"You would have known if you weren't so quick to give me crap!" Mai huffed, squeezing water out of her hair. "We only came to find out why random couples were getting drenched out of nowhere."
Not-Masako finally glanced around at the group, her brows raising. "Are you guys in some kind of weird paranormal club or something?"
Everyone laughed nervously to themselves.
"Anyway," Mai started, brushing off the comment, "why are you going around pouring water on random people?"
"Because it's unfair that these couples are all happy while I hurt so much!" Not-Masako said, crying into Naru's sleeve.
Ayako put one hand on her hip with her other in the air. "What happened to you that you're lashing out your anger at other people?" she asked.
Not-Masako instantly lit up, abandoning Naru's arm to stand at the center of attention. She promptly delved into the story of her ex-boyfriend who she had met in this exact park when a leek had fallen out of her grocery bag. After their meeting, he took her on dates and they frequented the park often. That was until she saw him with another woman while taking her usual short-cut.
"I confronted them, and he laughed at me and poured a water bottle over my head," she said, sniffling as she recounted the memories. "I was so depressed at the state of my life, so I decided to take matters into my own hands."
Mai's face softened as she listened to the various ways the spirit had tried to take her own life. Her heart hurt with the same sadness that she'd felt for Gene earlier. She continued to listen as the spirit explained how she finally succeeded after hitting her head on the curb in just the right spot after a fall. After death, she attempted to haunt him, but it only proved how insensitive the guy was. Thus, she was stuck in limbo without getting the revenge she wanted.
Anger blazed in Mai's heart at the unfairness. It was a shame the spirit felt life was not worth living, over some guy no less. It just served as another reminder to Mai why romance was too much trouble.
"I'm sorry," Not-Masako suddenly said turning to Mai. She then explained why she'd been so quick to target Mai. Takata had reminded her of herself. He was softer in nature, had been walking through the park with a bag of groceries, and had caught Mai "two-timing."
"But it's okay. I shared my woes with you all, so I can pass on." Not-Masako sighed in relief with her story finally off her chest.
While the others cheered her on for choosing to move on, Mai couldn't shake the feeling that things were left unfinished.
"Now, hold on a minute. Good for you choosing to move past it, but it doesn't sit right with me to leave things as they are." Mai crossed her arms, a ferocious expression on her face.
"What are you saying, that she takes revenge?" asked Bou-san.
"If she's willing to let it go, you shouldn't egg her on," said Ayako, a scolding tone.
"While I agree with Matsuzaki-san," said Madoka. "I can see where you're coming from, Mai-chan. How would we go about that though?"
Just then, Not-Masako gasped, pointing in the distance. "It's him!"
Everyone rushed to look at who this heartstopper was that led this poor woman to her death.
Upon landing her eyes on him, the only thought in Mai's head at that moment was—
Why is it always some average looking bloke with a weird haircut?
"Bloke?" I bet you learned that from a Naru-dream, Gene teased. By the way, it's hard being a dude! You gotta do whatever you can to stand out, compensating when you need to.
Not if you're a pair of twins blessed with the looks of the Gods themselves.
Why, I'm flattered, Gene chuckled, pausing for a moment before adding, but maybe not as much as my dear brother.
Mai's eyes unconsciously searched for the person in question, landing on Naru whose face had a faint hint of smugness to it.
Great, I fed his ego. She rolled her eyes, unable to help the endearing twitch of her mouth.
"Should we ambush and beat him up behind that sketchy Takoyaki shop?" Bou-san's ill-intentioned suggestion brought her attention back to the group.
"That's an awful idea. Just let me talk to him," Ayako suggested, her hand bent back to illustrate the superiority of her idea. "I've had experience with these kinds of men in the past."
"No surprise there. You don't strike me as the type to attract healthy relationships," Bou-san mumbled offhandedly.
"At least I've had boyfriends!
"Emphasis on 'had.'"
Madoka cleared her throat. "Why not just scare the wits out of him?" she suggested. "Stage something to teach him a lesson without getting physical. I don't know about you, but I'm not interested in a lawsuit."
No one could argue about that. Thus, began their plotting.
While the group divulged a plan, barely anyone noticed Takata spectating to the side. He smiled as he watched Mai in her element. His grocery bag had been left forgotten next to the fountain where he had laid it. He didn't participate in the discussion since he was at least that self-aware, but he was content to see how everything played out. Plus, he appreciated seeing this side of the daydreaming girl from school.
The one person who did notice Takata's presence was Naru, who was not pleased to have a stranger intruding in his company's business.
The two stood to the side as everyone shot ideas back and forth.
"So, I was just wondering something." Takata started. "You're Taniyama-san's senpai at work, right?"
Naru didn't answer, almost acting as though he hadn't heard anyone. Takata didn't falter, leading Naru to answer out of desire to be left alone. "I'm her boss," he said, simply.
"Ah, yes, boss then. Either way, that helps answer my question," Takata said, scratching the back of his head nervously. "I was worried you had something else going on with her. That time I came in, you really scared me with that look. But I guess it was kinda rude of me to barge in during work hours. Sorry about that."
The corner of Naru's eyebrow twitched as Takata continued rambling on despite receiving no acknowledgement. It was akin to Mai's lack of awareness when she babbled to him about whatever was on her mind regardless of his engagement or not.
"Is there a reason you're telling me this?" Naru interrupted the rambling.
Takata blinked, smiling sheepishly. "I've been thinking of asking her out but didn't want to mess up anything. Looks like I'm all clear though!"
Naru didn't reply but finally turned to regard him. It was subtle, but the intensity in Naru's eyes had Takata flinching, the breeze feeling suspiciously chilly for late spring.
"Well, uh, wish me luck!" With that, Takata scurried away to the group to catch what was going on—and to avoid whatever that was.
Amidst the tension, the girl in question had no clue what had transpired. Rather, she, like everyone else, had invested her full attention to the ruining of some guy.
Ultimately, it was decided that the teens, minus Masako, would wait to the side while Ayako, Bou-san, John, and Madoka would take part in the scheme.
Ayako lured the guy over by playing the part of damsel in distress when something "accidentally" fell from her—Takata's—grocery bag. As planned, he couldn't ignore a lady in need.
After some orchestrated flirting back and forth, Ayako asked casually, "For someone so handsome, it makes me wonder how many girls you meet by chance like this?"
"You'd be surprised how many ladies drop their groceries. None of them were as gorgeous as you though."
Mai nearly puked from her hiding spot behind a tree.
"Really? You've never met a catch?" Ayako tilted her head innocently.
"Never. They were all quick flings. You though, you're something special," he said, giving her a smoldering grin.
"Is that so?" Cue Ayako's crazy eyes. She suddenly widened her eyes and attempted to bulge them out with an unnatural grin on her face. "What about the ones you cheated on and led to suicide? Were they not special either?"
He jumped back, freaked out by her change in demeanor. When he tried to run away, he was cornered by Bou-san, John, and Madoka, all with their faces downturned for dramatic effect.
"Have you not learned your lesson?"
"Shall we teach you one?"
He backed up, whipping his head around at them. "What the hell is going on? Who are you people?!"
Not-Masako stepped in front of him and shoved him into the ground. Her chin turned up in contempt as she mustered the most deranged smile she could muster. Before he had a chance to say anything, she poured a water bottle over his head just like he had done to her in life.
"Remember me?"
He seemed to get the message, crouching to the ground with his arms covering his head. "I'm so so so so sorry! Please don't hurt me!"
Not-Masako took slow steps before leaning over to his ear to whisper something. The next thing they knew, his eyes rolled into the back of his head and he passed out.
She poked him a few times to test.
Bou-san crossed his arms, disappointed that it ended so quick. "What an idiot."
No one disagreed to that.
After dumping the guy on a park bench because they were good Japanese samaritans, the group said their good-byes to Not-Masako's spirit.
"Thank you everyone!" She smiled brightly, waving both hands in the air as she floated off.
Mai sent her off with just as much enthusiasm, happy to see another spirit move on peacefully after their last case.
As soon as the spirit was gone, Masako woke up with a groggy hand to her head. "What happened?"
"You got possessed-" Mai started to say.
"And snuggled up to Naru and kissed him!" Ayako cut her off, clear mischief on her face.
Masako reddened immediately, holding her cheeks. "You can't be serious!"
"You rubbed your cheek right up to his arm and everything," Bou-san said, smirking.
"You said some embarrassing things too." Madoka giggled evilly, unable to resist throwing something in.
While Masako was busy being teased, Takata pulled Mai to the side much to the curiosity of Yasu. If Naru noticed, he didn't say.
"I'm gonna head out now. If this is what work is like normally for you, it must be fun," he said, gesturing his head back at the rowdy group.
"You can say there's never a dull moment," she agreed, watching her team fondly. "Guess I'll see you at school. Sorry for getting you wrapped up in all this."
He shot her a grin. "No worries. It was interesting!"
She didn't buy it but shrugged it off anyway and gave him a friendly smile. "Well, see you later. Safe walk home!"
"Thanks!" He started to turn, but then paused. "Say, um, Taniyama-san, would you like to meet up to study for exams some time? I'm having trouble in… English, and I hear you're doing really well."
Mai blinked, not expecting his question. Her inability to deny someone in need of help had her agreeing before she could process the intention of his question. "Yeah, sure. Though, I don't know how much help I can be."
"Keiko-chan says that it's one of your best subjects," he said, shrugging. "Could I have your number? That way we can plan something?"
She nodded, automatically inputting her info into his phone when he handed it to her without batting an eye.
"Thanks again. I'll reach out to you later! Have fun at work." Takata gave a quick wave of his hand and was off.
It wasn't until they returned to the SPR office and Yasu announced it to everyone that Mai realized the implications of what she'd just done.
"That was the oldest trick in the book, Mai-chan! I thought you knew what he was doing," Yasu said, shaking his head. He had an arm folded on the back of the SPR couch, leaning his head into his hand.
Bou-san's ears perked up. "Jou-chan scored a date?"
"We're studying!"
Ayako scoffed. "I have to say, the kid's got balls to ask for a one-on-one study date."
"What if I brought Yasu?" Mai asked, quickly trying to figure out how to rectify the situation.
Yasu shook his head rapidly. "Don't suck me into your problem. I'm a homewrecker, remember?"
Madoka, who had disappeared down the hall, erupted into a fit of laughter.
"I'm sure he has good intentions. He did say Mai-san is good in English class," said John, the only one with reason. "Is that true?" he asked, switching over to his native tongue.
"I hate you guys," Mai said with an accent, her face planted into her folded knees.
Amidst her embarrassment, Naru's office door opened revealing him and Masako looking more cleaned up than usual. They were arm in arm and looked to be heading out somewhere.
"Have a good night, everyone," Masako said.
"And where are you two going?" asked Ayako.
Masako smiled, moving closer to Naru. "We have a dinner reservation tonight, but maybe we'll see a movie after too."
Mai really wanted to wipe the smug look off her face. Mainly because Masako made direct eye contact with her as she said it. What was her deal?
As the couple headed out, she inadvertently made eye contact with Naru. Their gaze lingered for a moment too long before Mai ripped hers away.
Whatever.
Once the door clicked in place, Ayako crossed her arms. "Yup, something suspicious about that. I bet she has dirt on him."
"What are you thinking?" asked Bou-san, peeking out the window at the couple as they walked down the street.
"Perhaps Hara-san's father is Shibuya-san's patron?" John suggested.
Mai sat up straight at that. "A what now?" Yasu, Ayako, and Bou-san all had smirks on their faces, no doubt thinking something dirty.
"Hara-san's father is probably a sponsor for Shibuya-san's company."
"Oh, I see. That would make sense why he's able to afford quality equipment like that." Bou-san nodded as the pieces fell together. "And Masako-chan's using that as blackmail so she can score some dates."
While this new development did make Mai feel better about the situation, there was something else that bothered her. "I don't know if that's all, though? There's something more to it."
"Like what?" asked Yasu.
"I don't know. I can't place my finger on it," she said, thinking. "What I do know is, it seems like they get along well since they're so similar. Knowing Naru, wouldn't he make it obvious if he hated it?" Her fingers played with the end of her skirt.
They all thought about it, nodding. "Guess you're right about that," Bou-san said, studying her for a minute. He was good at pretending not to notice things, but Mai's demeanor bothered him. "Gotta say though, because they're so similar, I don't think they'd click for real."
Mai pretended not to perk up at his comment.
"Yeah, she'd never challenge him. What he needs is a beautiful woman to put him in his place, someone like me." Ayako tossed her hair back and sat up straighter. "If only he were a few years older."
"Oh, thank god, I thought we were going to enter cougar territory over here." Yasu wiped the invisible sweat off his brow.
"Hey, you're too new to be making quips at me already," Ayako said, pointing her finger at him.
"You make it easy," retorted Yasu, shrugging.
Bou-san grinned. "You're learning already," he said. "Say, why don't we grab some food? I'm starving. There's a new pho restaurant that just opened a few blocks from here."
"What? You don't want that sketchy takoyaki shop you mentioned earlier?" Mai teased, happiness bubbling up in her chest as she watched the antics of her friends—her makeshift family.
This was true contentment, she realized. She hadn't felt lonely in such a long time after meeting everyone. And thanks to them, she nearly forgot about the Naru and Masako thing.
On her walk home after getting dinner with everyone, she pulled out her mirror to confide in her spirit guide.
Hey, Gene?
Yeah?
Crushes go away eventually, right?
Sometimes.
Well, I think mine can. I'll make it go away. She nodded her head in triumph.
Gene raised a single brow at her declaration. If Mai couldn't distinguish between infatuation and real feelings, then he didn't know how to help her. At least this meant things were going to get interesting.
If you say so, Mai.
A/N: Hi guys! I tried to cut out some of the chapter, but ultimately it ended up longer than I intended LMAO. Hope you liked these more mundane moments! Now, with all the cases covered, Bloodstained Labyrinth here we come!
If you enjoyed reading, please consider leaving a comment (on any fic you read for that matter)! They're the energy source for writers!
As always thank you to everyone who has commented, followed, subscribed, and checked the story/art dump on AO3 so far. It always means the world to me, and makes me so happy to know that people still love Ghost Hunt as much as I do :')
Take care, guys! And stay cool! Toodles~