What is Love
Back to their familial issues.....
Hana slumped into the worn armchair of Shinichi's apartment, clutching her mug of tea like a lifeline. News of Kiri and Ruka's long-distance relationship hung heavy in the air, a bittersweet fog choking out the usual banter between them.
"So, that's it?" Hana mumbled, "Boston and Okinawa? Separated by half the Pacific Ocean and a whole lot of sushi?"
The problem is, Kiri and Ruka's Long-distance relationship aren't even going out from Korean Peninsula. Yet.
Shinichi, ever the detective, observed her carefully. "Hana-chan," he began, choosing his words as meticulously as he used to analyze crime scenes. "Remember when we first started dating? You were convinced I was some sort of undercover agent with a secret life based on my... unorthodox habits,"
"Sasamoto said ain't no way Kiri or Ruka be goin' to Boston. Plus, Okinawa ain't even that far. You can hit up Jeongyeon on TWICE's IG QnA session and ask how they kept that 'Green Horn' under control. Their tips be on point, especially when everybody found out that San Diego's #63 was a straight heartthrob back in his Osaka days."
Hana chuckled, remembering her first suspicions 'bout her senpai's disappearin' acts and mind-bogglin' deductions. "Well, Edo-chan, you basically a detective! You just swapped them jetpacks for deductions and laser guns for tiny magnifying glasses."
He chuckled, a genuine, comforting sound that warmed the frosty air. "Maybe. But the point is, we made it work. Late-night calls across time zones, surprise visits fueled by jet lag and instant ramen, even that disastrous attempt at online escape room that ended with us yelling instructions at each other through the screen... and stop callin' me Edo-chan."
Hana's lips curved into a smile despite herself. They'd certainly weathered their fair share of unorthodox situations. From dodging rogue tifos at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, to defusing culinary catastrophes in Miyano's lab for Cafe Asia, their relationship had been a whirlwind of unexpected adventures.
"But this feels different," Hana admitted, her voice catching slightly. "Kiri and Ruka... they're young, in love, facing this huge obstacle. What if we can't handle it?"
Shinichi reached for her hand, his touch grounding her like a gentle anchor. "Hey," he said, his eyes the soft brown of melted chocolate. "We're not Kiri and Ruka. We've faced tougher cases than long-distance calls and time zone math."
"Remember the Case of the Disappearing Dog Biscuit sponsored by Petco? The Great Tofu Caper sponsored by Motorola? We even survived being in a stampede called San Diego's FIRST WORLD SERIES PARADE,"
Yes, during the time skip, the San Diego Padres beat the Anaheim Angels in the World Series. Twice in a row. Two straight seven-game series. Roger Bomman, the OG Angels in the Outfield protagonist was thrown out to Dotonbori River, losing the bet against the Dog Biscuit and Tofu Caper case by around three billion yen.
Hana couldn't help but laugh, the tension finally cracking under the weight of his ridiculousness. "Those were... trials by fire, alright," she conceded, her smile warming the room a little more.
"Exactly," Shinichi grinned. "So, instead of worrying about what might go wrong, let's focus on what makes us work. Our trust, our communication, our shared love for ramen and mystery novels. We can bridge any distance with those, Hana-chan. You know I'll always find my way back to you, even if it takes a hot air balloon powered by deductive reasoning."
Hana felt a surge of warmth flood her chest. His words were silly, absurdly Shinichi, but they resonated with a truth as clear as his eyes. This wasn't a case to be solved, it was a story to be written, and they were the authors, armed with love, laughter, and enough instant ramen to fuel a transpacific voyage.
Pulling him close, she whispered, "Speaking of transpacific voyages, how about we celebrate our own unorthodox love story with some takeout okonomiyaki? Extra mayo, of course."
Shinichi's eyes lit up like a solved puzzle. "Excellent deduction, Hana-chan! My treat, obviously. Unless," he paused, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "you want to try making it together? I hear there's a new escape room downtown based on Kaito Kid's latest heist..."
Hana rolled her eyes, laughter bubbling up inside her. This was their reality, a crazy circus act of mystery, mischief, and unwavering love, seasoned with just the right amount of absurdity. And she wouldn't trade it for all the sushi in Okinawa or the lobster rolls in Boston. This, this was home.
As they bickered playfully over takeout menus and debated the merits of DIY okonomiyaki versus professional-grade heist escapes, the future, though uncertain, felt brighter than ever. Because in the end, their love story wasn't about the distance, it was about the bridge they built between them, brick by brick, laugh by laugh, instant ramen by instant ramen. And that, Hana knew, was a bond no ocean could break.
Stronger
Hana then flopped onto the worn sofa, her ample assets making an impressive indentation. News of Kazuya and Chizuru's PDA parade had left her feeling flat. "They practically do the tango during tea time," she grumbled, poking Shinichi with a chubby toe.
He chuckled, his abs doing an impressive ripple beneath his gym-buffed chest. "Jealous, munchkin?" He teased, a playful glint in his eyes.
Hana huffed, "Jealous? Me? Nah, I just prefer a bit more... subtlety. Like whispered compliments instead of full-blown makeout sessions at Denny's."
Shinichi's grin widened. "Subtlety, huh? Interesting choice of words for the girl who practically glued herself to me during the Kaito Kid MMA Shenanigans last week."
Hana blushed, remembering the way she'd clung to him like a koala on espresso after nearly getting blown up by one of Kid's smoke bombs. "That was self-preservation, Edo-chan! Besides, your biceps make excellent panic handles."
"Ah, so physical touch is your love language, I see." Shinichi's smirk was smug, but somehow endearing. He shifted closer, brushing his hand against hers. "Don't worry, Hana-chan. I may not tango in diners, but I can offer you a world-class snuggle any day of the week."
"And why you call me Edo-chan?" Shinichi's naughty hand travelling through the ample body of Hana.
Hana, unable to resist his puppy-dog eyes, leaned into his warmth. She loved their brand of skinship: lazy afternoon arm slings, forehead kisses exchanged over sudoku puzzles, and the occasional playful arm wrestle that devolved into giggles and tickles. It wasn't fireworks, but it was a slow burn that kept them warm and content.
Yet.......before they went to "infinity and beyond"..........
Ding dong.
Suddenly, Kazuya and Chizuru materialized on the threshold, looking sheepish after their public display of affection. Chizuru, whose curves rivaled a Renaissance angel, blushed crimson under Hana's scrutinizing gaze. "Okay, maybe we go overboard sometimes," she admitted, fiddling with the hem of her skirt.
Kazuya then looked at the little window, impressed with their banal desire. With his unimpressive pecs straining against his muscle tee, but with a pretty toned physique chimed in defensively.
"Hey, lovebirds! We just like showing each other we care. Besides, public displays of affection keep the paparazzi guessing. They can't tell who's real if we're both making googly eyes at everyone!"
His logic was questionable, but his sheepish grin was disarming. Hana couldn't help but laugh, the tension dissipating into the air. "Fine, fine," she conceded, slinging an arm around Chizuru. "You two lovebirds can keep your theatrical displays. We'll stick to our subtle... snuggles."
Shinichi winked at Kazuya, offering a manly fist bump. "More power to your PDA, bro. Just leave the tangoing to Alexis Mac Allister, alright?"
"Mac Allister? Why not using more subtle examples like Diego Simeone or Javier Mascherano?" Kazuya clapped back, sarcastically.
The room erupted in laughter, the awkwardness replaced by a comfortable camaraderie. After all, love came in all shapes and sizes, from whispered compliments to dramatic makeouts. And in this quirky family of detectives, magicians, and ramen enthusiasts, every expression of affection, from the subtle to the outrageous, was a celebration of the one thing that truly mattered: the bonds that held them together, stronger than any mystery, sillier than any heist, and warmer than the fluffiest okonomiyaki.
As the laughter subsided, Hana snuggled closer to Shinichi, his arm draped protectively around her. "So, who's up for a movie marathon and some instant ramen?" she asked, her voice muffled against his chest.
"Only if you promise to let me win the arm wrestle this time," Shinichi challenged, his voice laced with playful mock-seriousness.
Hana smirked, her eyes twinkling. "You're on, detective. But don't blame me if your logic gets tangled in my noodle curls."
Careless Whisper
So, with the aroma of instant ramen filling the air and the promise of playful competition in the air, their quirky love story continued, a delightful symphony of laughter, ramen, and a whole lot of skinship, subtle or otherwise. In their world, love wasn't a performance, it was a comfortable embrace, a whispered joke, and the reassuring pressure of an arm slung around a shoulder. And that, they knew, was more precious than any grand gesture.
But, the master in the art of "Public Display of Affection" isn't so far. Yusaku Godai and the formerly Kyoko Chigusa was there.
"Two homies who be thinkin' with them ducks. I reckon err'thing fair in love and war, ya feel me? " the husband, sighing.
Then he added, "Da tall dude and da thick shawty be wantin' to get wit each otha. Da other dude and da curvy chick be feelin' some type of way too. You know how dis gonna go, boo. Love be in da air."
"Yinz can count on it, boo," the wife replied. "You n'at only live once, 'sides Netflix 'n chill."
Netflix and chill aside, they knew that the couple living nearby have multiple things to be talked about, especially when both of their children taught the young couples at multiple phase in their respective lives.
Moral Dilemma
A couple of weeks after the landlord and landlady watched the two neighboring young couples talked about their young marriage, Kazuya is lounging on the couch, flipping through a economic magazine, while Chizuru is sitting at the dining table, engrossed in a essay poetry book. They both look up as they catch each other's eye, sharing a fond smile.
KAZUYA: [Teasingly] Hey, Chizuru, I've got a moral dilemma for you. Imagine you're stranded on a desert island. You have one coconut left, and you're starving. Do you share it with me or keep it all to yourself?
CHIZURU: [Raises an eyebrow, amused] Oh, is this your attempt at a philosophical debate, Kazuya? Well, let me break it down for you. According to my deontological principles, sharing is caring. So, of course, I'd split it with you.
KAZUYA: [Grinning] Ah, but here's where the plot thickens. What if sharing that coconut means we both end up starving? Wouldn't it be more logical to maximize our chances of survival by each keeping our own portion?
CHIZURU: [Playfully scoffs] Kazuya, Kazuya, always the utilitarian. But you forget, relationships aren't just about survival; they're about trust and sacrifice. Besides, I'd rather starve with you than feast alone.
KAZUYA: [Chuckling] You always know how to tug at my heartstrings, Chizuru. But what if I told you I secretly had a stash of snacks hidden away, and I was testing your loyalty?
CHIZURU: [Feigns shock, placing a hand over her heart] Oh, the deceit! Well, if that were the case, then I'd forgive you, but only if you promise to share your secret snack stash with me.
KAZUYA: [Grinning mischievously] Deal! But on one condition: you have to admit that sometimes, just sometimes, being a little bit selfish can be the right thing to do.
CHIZURU: [Rolls her eyes playfully] Fine, fine. I'll concede that point... just this once. But only because I know deep down, you're incapable of being anything but kind-hearted and selfless, my dear Kazuya.
They share a warm smile, their playful banter reaffirming the bond between them as they continue to enjoy each other's company in their cozy little apartment. As Kazuya and Chizuru continue their banter, the doorbell rings. Kazuya gets up to answer it, revealing Shinichi and Hana standing in the doorway with bright smiles. Neighbors, innit?
KAZUYA: [Excitedly] Hey, Shinichi, Hana! Come on in, we were just having a little debate about morality. Perfect timing!
SHINICHI: [Nods politely] Thanks, Kazuya. Hey, Chizuru. [Turns to Hana] Looks like they're at it again, Hana.
HANA: [Grinning] Ooh, I love a good moral dilemma! What's the topic today, guys?
CHIZURU: [Laughs] Oh, you know, the usual. Kazuya's trying to convince me that sometimes it's okay to be selfish.
HANA: [Eyes widen playfully] Selfish? That's a bold move, Kazuya. But I've got your back, Chizuru. Selflessness is where it's at!
KAZUYA: [Grinning] Ah, Hana, always on my side. But what if being selfless means sacrificing your own happiness for the greater good?
SHINICHI: [Chiming in] Interesting point, Kazuya. But shouldn't our actions be guided by principles of duty and integrity, rather than just the consequences?
CHIZURU: [Nods thoughtfully] Exactly, Shinichi! It's not just about the outcome; it's about doing what's right, regardless of the consequences.
HANA: [Raises an eyebrow] But what if doing what's right leads to more harm than good? Isn't it better to focus on the end result and maximize happiness for everyone involved?
KAZUYA: [Scratches his head] Well, I suppose that depends on your perspective. But in matters of the heart, isn't it more important to prioritize honesty and loyalty, even if it means sacrificing a little happiness along the way?
CHIZURU: [Smiles warmly at Kazuya] I couldn't agree more, darling. Sometimes, the right choice isn't the easiest one, but it's the one that stays true to who we are.
HANA: [Links arms with Shinichi] Well, I guess we'll just have to agree to disagree, won't we, Shinichi?
SHINICHI: [Smirks] Indeed, Hana. But let's not forget, there's always room for compromise in matters of the heart.
As the conversation continues, laughter fills the room, and the four friends enjoy each other's company, each secure in the knowledge that their bond transcends any philosophical debate. The conversation shifts to Ruka and Kiri's romance as the four friends settle in, their laughter blending with the warm ambiance of the room.
CHIZURU: [Sipping her tea] So, have you heard any updates about Ruka and Kiri lately?
HANA: [Grinning mischievously] Oh, you mean our resident Romeo and Juliet? Last I heard, Ruka was still on a quest to find her knight in shining armor.
SHINICHI: [Raises an eyebrow] And Kiri? Is he still pining away, dreaming of the day he'll finally land himself a girlfriend? He got one and it's a literal walkoff touchdown!
KAZUYA: [Chuckles] Ah, poor Kiri. He's like the Ted Mosby of our group, always searching for his own "Robin" but never quite finding her.
HANA: [Nudges Shinichi playfully] Yeah, and Ruka's like that overbearing aunt who keeps trying to set him up on blind dates, whether he likes it or not.
CHIZURU: [Laughs] It's like a never-ending sitcom with those two. But you have to admit, there's something endearing about Ruka's unwavering belief in fate and true love.
SHINICHI: [Sips his drink, nodding in agreement] True, true. But let's not forget about Kiri's... unique approach to romance. I mean, the guy practically wrote the playbook on how not to flirt.
KAZUYA: [Grinning] Oh, you mean his infamous "awkward turtle" move? Classic Kiri.
HANA: [Bursts out laughing] And don't even get me started on his obsession with physical touch. I swear, the guy's like a clingy koala bear sometimes.
CHIZURU: [Shakes her head, still chuckling] Well, at least they keep things interesting. It's like a never-ending soap opera with those two.
SHINICHI: [Smirks] Indeed. But hey, as long as they're happy, who are we to judge? Love is a strange and wonderful thing, after all.
Hana suddenly leans forward, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she begins to weave a tale about her brother's whirlwind romance.
HANA: [Grinning] You know, Ruka and Kiri's story reminds me of something straight out of a K-drama. Picture this: a quaint petrol station in South Korea, the air thick with anticipation as two soldiers return home from overseas deployment.
CHIZURU: [Raises an eyebrow curiously] Sounds like the beginning of an epic love story. But what does this have to do with Kiri and Ruka?
HANA: [Nods] Ah, you'll see. So, there's Kiri, this sweet, innocent guy in his early twenties, completely oblivious to the ways of the world. And then there's Ruka, our fiery heroine, determined to find her soulmate no matter what.
SHINICHI: [Chuckling] Sounds like a match made in... interesting territory.
HANA: [Laughs] You have no idea. Anyway, Kiri and Ruka had a date that day, completely unaware of the life-changing event about to unfold. As they laughed and talked, their worlds collided with those returning soldiers, marking the beginning of a journey from rags to riches.
CHIZURU: [Intrigued] Rags to riches? That sounds like quite the transformation.
HANA: [Nods] Oh, it was. You see, Kiri and Ruka had to navigate through cultural differences, language barriers, and their own personal struggles to make it work. But through it all, they found a love that transcended boundaries.
CHIZURU: [Smiling] That sounds like quite the adventure.
HANA: [Laughs] You have no idea. But you know, despite the challenges, Kiri remained his bashful, sweet self, while Ruka... well, let's just say she had her moments.
CHIZURU: [Raises an eyebrow, intrigued] Oh? And what were those moments, exactly?
HANA: [Chuckles] Let's just say, Ruka's passion and determination sometimes came off as a tad... possessive. But hey, love makes us do crazy things, right?
SHINICHI: [Smirks] Indeed. But in the end, it's all part of the journey. Love isn't always smooth sailing, but it's worth every bump in the road.
As Hana finishes her tale, the room is filled with a sense of warmth and nostalgia, the shared memories of love and adventure binding the four friends together in a way that only true companions can understand. Then, Kazuya clears his throat, a hint of nostalgia coloring his voice as he begins to recount a tale about his mother, Harumi.
KAZUYA: [Sipping his tea, his gaze distant] You know, hearing about Ruka and Kiri reminds me of a story from my own family. It's about my mother, Harumi.
CHIZURU: [Leans in, curious] Mum? I don't think you've ever mentioned her before in this vicinity.
KAZUYA: [Nods solemnly] Yeah, she's... she's not one to talk much. But when she does, you can tell she's always worried about causing any undue stress. It's like every word she says is carefully weighed and measured.
SHINICHI: [Furrows his brow] Sounds like she carries a heavy burden... isn't she? My dad and Pops always put some more respect about her.
KAZUYA: [Nods] She does. You see, my mother was raised by a single father, Mr. Iioka. You know, my gramps, he was a tough-looking man, the longtime manager of Bunny Cabaret. They once lived in Maison Ikkoku, long before our landowners met. The third room which was engraved "Mitsukoshi over there", 'twas my grandpa's cousin.
HANA: [Gasps] Wait, Maison Ikkoku? HERE? Isn't that where we live? Dad and Pops always said that our relatives had a long story here. I thought our dads met at this, but......dang.
KAZUYA: [Smirks] Yep, small world, huh? Anyway, my grandfather, Mr. Iioka, was Yusaku-san's former boss at the Cabaret. He had quite the stories to tell about the place and the old manager. You know, Yusaku-san and my Dad used to bicker all the time about booze only to Mr. Iioka to slap their head. Co-workers....
CHIZURU: [Raises an eyebrow] And Mum? What was her story? She ain't gonna tell me about her backstory behind her old man's back, as she always telling me.
KAZUYA: [Takes a deep breath] Well, as you always see, despite her quiet nature, my mother was always there for me, supportive and understanding. She knew what it was like to grow up with a single parent, to feel the weight of responsibility at such a young age. Like my dad, who had a fatherly issue, she grew with mother issue. Yet time heals, as long as you improve.
SHINICHI: [Nods in understanding, hands around Kazuya's shoulder] Sounds like she's been through a lot. I knew your dad's old man passed away when you were a toddler, but like my in-laws said, there's a darker shade you'd find with Kazu-chan. Damn, my G.
KAZUYA: [Sighs] Yeah, my G. But despite it all, she never lost her kindness or her strength. She was a rock for me, someone I could always turn to when things got tough. Eight years without bearing a child, people assume that I am the youngest when I don't have any siblings.
HANA: [Touches Chizuru's hand reassuringly] Indeed. Like Mom said, she's an amazing woman, Kazuya. And Chizuru, you might lost auntie early, but you have a motherly figure who helps you in-and-out.
KAZUYA: [Smiles softly] Yeah, she is. And I'm grateful for every moment I get to spend with her, even if she doesn't say much.
As Kazuya finishes his story, a sense of quiet reverence settles over the room, the weight of family and history hanging heavy in the air. But amidst the somber tone, there's still a glimmer of humor, a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there's always room for a laugh.
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