Conundrum | Ranpo Edogawa ✓

XI

As you followed Poe into the apartment, you couldn't help but sense Ranpo's shift in demeanour. He was quiet...almost too quiet for his own good. You were suspicious by his sudden reaction—you wondered, for a fleeting moment, if he was upset by Poe's apparent attraction to you, but you figured that would have been ridiculous and dispelled even the thought like a puff of smoke.

Poe, on the other hand, seemed oblivious to the tension between the two detectives. He eagerly showed you around his apartment, pointing out various pieces of detective memorabilia and explaining their significance. You learnt that he was part of the Guild with an ability to transport readers into the setting of any mystery novel, specifically any murder mystery novel, which was very interesting. His raccoon was called Karl. You found yourself enjoying his enthusiasm, but you couldn't shake the feeling that something was off with Ranpo.

As you stepped into the small foyer of the Tokyo apartment and looked around, you couldn't help but notice that Ranpo kept a polite distance from you and Poe, but his eyes followed your every move. You wondered what was going through his mind, but you knew better than to pry. Immediately, you were impressed by the apartment, and you could tell by the look on Ranpo's face that he was, too. You were greeted by a cosy yet functional space that embodied the essence of Japanese minimalism. The walls were adorned with delicate paintings and prints, carefully arranged to create a sense of balance and harmony. The soft glow of a paper lantern cast a warm light throughout the area, highlighting the subtle beauty of the decor.

Moving deeper into the apartment, you noticed the clever use of space-saving techniques. A compact kitchenette occupied one corner, complete with sleek appliances and an efficient layout that maximised functionality without sacrificing style. A small dining table sat nearby, its smooth wooden surface inviting you to sit down and enjoy a meal or a warm cup of tea.

Further down the hallway, you came across the main living area, where a comfortable sofa and a low table invited you to relax and unwind. A large window offered a breathtaking view of the bustling city below, reminding you of just how close you were to the heart of Tokyo.

As you explored the rest of the apartment, you couldn't help but appreciate the meticulous attention to detail that had gone into its design. From the elegant sliding doors that led to the bedrooms to the compact bathrooms with their state-of-the-art fixtures, every inch of the space had been carefully crafted to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that perfectly captured the essence of modern Japanese living.

Poe clapped his hands together excitedly, "I didn't realise I'd be offering this apartment to both of you," at this, you immediately grinned, because you didn't even have to look at Ranpo's expression right now to know that he was probably seething, since you and him sharing an apartment together in a completely different city was certainly not part of his plan. "So you're lucky that there's a spare bedroom!"

Even better.

"No, no, no," Ranpo shook his head from side to side as he walked up to Poe and slyly threw his arm around him. "I think you've got this all wrong, buddy. [Y/N] isn't living with me here."

You scoffed.

Poe appeared visibly confused.

"I think, Poe..." you walked over to him, standing to his right while Ranpo was on his left, "what Ranpo means to say is that he appreciates you letting both of us stay at this amazing apartment." You fluttered your lashes at him, causing his heart to leap in his chest. Ranpo noticed this, and he immediately shot you an icy glare, clearly displeased with your actions.

"Do not let this woman manipulate you," Ranpo warned, and Poe immediately swivelled his neck to meet Ranpo's serious gaze. "I know she's very pretty, but don't let her get into your head—"