Ch. 121..130

Chapter 121 - 121: By the way, this is the bill paid by Gin

This morning, McDonald's welcomed a group of unusual guests.

A refined, gentle-looking handsome man.A cold-faced man with long hair.A spirited girl with eye-corner tattoos.A sunglasses-wearing driver.A giant, heavily bandaged bodyguard.And someone in the background who seemed to be just... there.

A strange ensemble—yet all dressed in black.

They didn't look like gangsters per se, but the oppressive aura they carried made the other customers instinctively move aside. The young cashier behind the counter didn't dare make eye contact.

"What do you want to eat?"

Gin asked as he scanned the menu.

"Two pork and egg McMuffins, one bacon maple muffin, two hash browns, and a cup of hot coffee, please," said Hayashi Yoshiki. After a short pause, he smiled at the nervous clerk. "Also, a pork fillet and egg McMuffin set, to go."

"O-Okay…"

The clerk stammered and began processing the order.

The others hesitated briefly, then placed their own orders in turn.

Gin, being last, swiped his card and walked toward the dining area with hands in his pockets. He noticed a few people already seated at a bar-like counter by the window.

"I still wish we'd gone to a high-end restaurant. A real one."

"This is good enough. Besides, no French restaurants are open at this hour," Vodka replied.

"Tch."

Chianti scoffed, arms crossed, clearly not in the mood.

Gin brushed past and took a seat next to Vodka.

Next to Hayashi Yoshiki, Korn sat quietly. He looked more like a retired fisherman than a sniper.

"I heard your new book is nearly done?"

"Yeah… Should be ready in two months," Hayashi Yoshiki replied casually.

"Am I in it?"

"What?"

"Did you write me in as a supporting character?"

"Yes."

Yoshiki smiled as he confirmed it.

Korn didn't say another word, but a subtle look of satisfaction crossed his face.

As expected from McDonald's, the food arrived quickly. Everyone received their meal in no time.

Hayashi Yoshiki began to eat.

Though not particularly slow, his manner was graceful—elegant, even. A stark contrast to Tequila, who wolfed down his meal in just a few bites. He then rolled up the wrapper with one hand and mumbled with a full mouth:

"Not bad."

Suddenly, Chianti shouted:

"Ketchup! Where's my ketchup?!"

Everyone froze.

Seeing no one answer, she scanned the table, locking it onto Korn.

"It's mine," he said, offering it up like a gentleman.

"What'd you order, bro?" Vodka asked as Gin methodically squeezed ketchup onto his meal.

Gin didn't answer.

The ever-dedicated Vodka, still running on zero sleep, had ordered two cups of coffee—he had more reports to write up.

Breakfast didn't last long.

As the group stood and left, the staff and other customers whispered in awe:

"Were they… actors?"

Meanwhile, on the second floor of the Kindaichi Detective Agency, Miyano Shiho had been staying for the past few days.

Far from the Organization's pressure—and especially from Gin—she finally enjoyed some rare peace and safety.

She was grateful to Cointreau (Hayashi Yoshiki).

Although the slow pace here left her a little bored, she didn't mind it.

That morning, she got up around 8, already used to her smaller, childlike body. After freshening up, she sat down to read a magazine.

Then suddenly—a cold, bone-chilling dread struck her.

Her face turned pale instantly.

Gin.

A sharp, needle-like pressure surged up her spine and into her mind.

Haibara Ai (her alias) hugged her shoulders tightly, breath catching in her throat. It felt as though she'd been stripped naked and cast into a frozen wasteland.

He was nearby.

Have I been discovered?

What about Cointreau?

Her thoughts spiraled into panic. She gripped her shoulders so tightly she nearly broke skin.

Click—

The key turned in the lock. The door slowly opened.

"Good morning. I brought you breakfast."

Hayashi Yoshiki entered and closed the door behind him.

She didn't reply.

Her face was ghostly white, sweat beading on her skin.

He understood immediately.

"Don't worry. Gin and the others have left."

At those words, warmth returned to her body. Slowly, she felt life seep back into her limbs.

The dreadful aura that had haunted her… was gone.

But still, unease lingered.

"They…?"

"Well, since I didn't have a car last night, I had them drop me off here."

As he spoke, he held the warm paper-wrapped package against her cheek.

She inhaled the lingering aroma of food and felt herself relax.

Then he said,

"Oh, by the way—this is Gin's receipt."

"…"

Miyano Shiho no longer felt like eating.

But in the end, she couldn't resist the smell.

"Last night...?" she asked.

"The mission required me to go with them."

"Were you hurt?"

"No."

She didn't press further.

After all, the Organization's missions could mean anything—blackmail, assassination... She understood how meaningless it was to ask.

Just like she had been forced to research ApTX4869, Cointreau likely had no choice once given a directive.

She ate her breakfast slowly, in small, measured bites.

Despite her childish appearance, her thoughtful demeanor shone through—this duality of innocence and intellect was part of Miyano Shiho's quiet charm.

"What's your next move?"

"...I'm planning to contact Kudo Shinichi."

"I see. That sounds good."

Hayashi Yoshiki agreed with her idea.

Staying with Dr. Agasa was the safest option for now.

The Organization was relentless, and she remained a target.

And once the events of "The Shadow of the Dark Steel" unfolded—and Haibara Ai was confirmed as Miyano Shiho—Gin would be the first to suspect her.

Even though Vermouth would later mislead Gin again, it was still incredibly risky.

Besides, Hayashi Yoshiki had his own plan. Through Haibara Ai, he could ask Dr. Agasa for a little... help.

 

 

Chapter 122 - 122: Koizumi Akako with ill intentions

Kindaichi Detective Agency, 2nd Floor

After turning down yet another request to investigate an extramarital affair, Hayashi Yoshiki sat in front of his computer, fingers laced together, gazing silently at the blank notebook before him.

Miyano Shiho had now taken on the identity of Haibara Ai, and Pisco's death was soon to be scheduled.

—Kenzo Masuyama: his name and photo still occasionally appeared in financial newspapers, which made things quite convenient for Hayashi Yoshiki.

While Pisco's personal abilities weren't impressive, as a long-standing member of the Organization, he had considerable internal knowledge—he might even have met Karasuma Renya in person.

Before Pisco died, Hayashi Yoshiki intended to use the Death Note to compel him to record everything he knew about the Organization—its members, its structure... and, if possible, to write down the name Karasuma Renya.

(I need to plan this carefully.)

Hayashi Yoshiki mused silently, the tip of his pen brushing the white paper.

The recent assault by the Brewery on the Zoo had clearly provoked retaliation. Several peripheral members of the Brewery had been taken out lately, and even Gin and Vodka had come under fire during a mission.

Of course, neither was injured. But they were furious. From the Brewery's perspective, the Zoo was now a prime suspect in Sherry's abduction.

Hayashi Yoshiki was quite pleased. After all, this turmoil was his doing.

The more chaotic things became, the better.

With both factions locked in tension and crossfire, no one would notice the venomous spider watching in silence... until it was too late.

A quiet smile formed on his lips as he finally wrote a new name in the Death Note.

After carefully detailing the cause and manner of death, he set his pen down, leaned back in his chair, and picked up his phone to check messages.

Messages and Maneuvering

Gin: "Be careful when you go out. Avoid bars tied to the Organization."

Cointreau: "OK."

That was it. No additional information.

Just then, a message arrived on his other phone—the one he used for less official matters.

Koizumi Hongzi: "I received the item. Checked it—pretty good quality!"

Koizumi Hongzi: "You did well. I'll accept the favor this time."

Hayashi Yoshiki: "Glad you're satisfied. Didn't expect magic to be so expensive, though."

His relationship with Koizumi Akako had taken time to cultivate.

She was wary, probably sensing his motives ran deep. She didn't trust him easily, and getting close to her had been slow and deliberate.

But Hayashi Yoshiki had something to offer.

As a witch, Akako required rare ingredients for her spells and alchemy. As a member of the Organization, Hayashi had access to... special resources.

Koizumi Hongzi: "Just a little money~!"

Koizumi Akako: "Hehehe~"

Koizumi Hongzi: "A witch doesn't owe favors lightly. Just wait—I'll prepare a lovely return gift."

Hayashi Yoshiki didn't respond.

Because another message popped up.

Kaito's Warning

Kuroba Kaito: "Did you offend Koizumi Akako?"

Hayashi Yoshiki: "What do you mean?"

Kuroba Kaito: "She was acting off today. Muttering, 'No man escapes my control,' and laughing like, 'Ohohoho~!' Total villain vibes."

Hayashi Yoshiki: "Sounds like a scene out of a manga."

Kuroba Kaito: "She mentioned your name. Said she had to uncover your secret. You definitely ticked her off."

Kuroba Kaito: "Also, if she offers you chocolate—don't eat it. I'm serious."

"..."

Troublesome.

But also... potentially useful.

Hayashi Yoshiki recalled that Koizumi's magic chocolates were rumored to carry enchantments or curses that made the eater fall madly in love with her.

He wondered... would such a thing work on someone as heartless as Gin?

His eyes narrowed slightly as he began to type.

Hayashi Yoshiki: "She's given chocolates to others before, right? If possible, could you find one of the old wrappers and send me a photo?"

Kuroba Kaito: "Huh!? Why me? That sounds like a pain!"

Hayashi Yoshiki: "I've got new intel for you."

Sometimes, bargaining worked better than threats.

Kuroba Kaito caved almost immediately.

With that settled, Hayashi Yoshiki opened his chat with Okino Yoko.

Ever since he'd used a half-baked excuse about needing shelter from the rain to get close to her, Okino Yoko had become far more affectionate… and clingy.

Hayashi Yoshiki: "Yoko, are you free tonight?"

Teitan Elementary School: Transfer Student

Today, Teitan Elementary welcomed a new transfer student:

—Haibara Ai.

Conan didn't think much of it at first. She seemed cold and standoffish—a typical aloof transfer student.

That is, until the Junior Detective League solved a counterfeit kidnapping case later that day. As they all parted ways to go home...

"ApTX4869 — that's the drug you took."

Nighttime.

Two short silhouettes stood beneath a bright streetlamp.

Haibara Ai's voice pierced the quiet.

After her calm yet piercing revelation, Conan's face went pale.

His mind flooded with questions.

Was Dr. Agasa in danger?Was Ran safe?Even his parents overseas—were they exposed?

Haibara had hinted that Dr. Agasa might already be dead. Panic gripped Conan. He didn't even say goodbye—he just turned and sprinted toward the doctor's house.

Behind him, Haibara smiled faintly and brushed a lock of hair behind her ear.

Now she truly understood just how reckless this famous detective was. If she hadn't scared him, hadn't given him this warning, he would've endangered them both.

Especially now that she knew he had interacted with Cointreau.

Her phone rang.

Cointreau.

"Hello? We had a bit of trouble today, but it's resolved…""Yes.""I'm heading to Dr. Agasa's place. Are you coming too?""Don't worry—I didn't reveal your identity.""Yes, Dr. Agasa is a good person.""See you soon."

She ended the call.

Just a few days earlier, she had introduced herself to Dr. Agasa—confessing that she was responsible for what happened to Kudo Shinichi.

It nearly gave the poor man a heart attack.

She had explained her defection, her escape, and her research on ApTX4869. But she deliberately left out two critical truths:

—That her sister was still alive.—And that Hayashi Yoshiki was involved.

 

 

Chapter 123 - 123: Is this acting?

"Are You Kidding Me!?"

2-22, Beika-cho — Agasa's Residence

"How can I understand you—a person who invented a deadly poison?!"

Conan's voice rose sharply.

Standing in the entryway, his eyes burned with fury as he glared at the cool, expressionless girl before him—Haibara Ai.

She had just finished narrating her past as if it were a detached tale, calmly saying, "Since you and I are in the same situation, perhaps you can understand what I went through."

But her composure only inflamed him further.

"Have you really thought it through? Do you know how many people have suffered because of the drug you invented?!"

His words struck her like a slap.

Haibara's calm mask cracked slightly, her expression wavering.

It was then that she truly realized that sharing the same fate did not mean sharing the same guilt. What Kudo Shinichi said was right.

As a developer of APTX4869, she was complicit—a collaborator of the Black Organization, her hands metaphorically stained with the blood of strangers.

Ran had once told her they might understand each other. She had believed it.

But that had been arrogant—naive.

Her gaze fell, dark and remorseful.

Seeing the tension, Dr. Agasa stepped forward to defuse the situation.

"Okay, okay, Shinichi. She was forced to research that drug… Besides, she's left the Organization now. And think about it—if she's the one who created it, isn't she also the most likely to develop an antidote?"

"That kind of thing—!"

Haibara began to respond, but just then—

Ding-ling~~

The doorbell rang.

The sudden sound broke the charged silence, cooling Conan's rage in an instant. He looked at the door, nerves flaring: Could someone from the Organization have come for them?

He didn't have time to stop the unsuspecting Professor Agasa, who went to answer it.

As the door opened—

"Mr. Hayashi?" Dr. Agasa blinked in surprise. "Why are you here so late?"

"Sorry for the hour, Professor," said Hayashi Yoshiki, flashing a courteous smile. "Work kept me late at the office, but I still wanted to check in."

"You really go the extra mile!"

"Would it be alright if I spoke to her?"

"Of course!"

Agasa stepped aside and looked back.

"Ai, Mr. Hayashi is here to see you."

Haibara rose quietly from the sofa and approached.

Yoshiki's gaze passed over Conan, who stood in stunned silence.

"Oh? Conan's here too?" he said, feigning mild surprise.

"Ah! I came to play the newest game with the professor, Yoshiki-nii!"

Haibara almost laughed.

Just moments ago, Conan had been exploding with righteous fury—and now he looked like the picture of innocence, pretending to be just a cheerful child.

Even she had to admire his ability to shift gears.

As Hayashi Yoshiki chatted amiably with Haibara by the door, Conan pulled Dr. Agasa aside.

"What's going on?"

"Hmm? Didn't Ai tell you?" Agasa blinked. "When she escaped the Organization, she had a high fever. Mr. Hayashi found her and brought her to me—using the excuse that she was my relative."

"Then… your reaction must've been really surprising, right?"

"Oh yes," Agasa said, rubbing his head sheepishly.

Conan frowned.

His eyes fixed on Hayashi, who now gently ruffled Haibara's hair as he spoke to her.

A troubling thought crept into his mind.

Hadn't Hattori warned me that Hayashi Yoshiki might have figured out who I really am…?

And then there was Dr. Agasa—hardly someone good at hiding emotion. If a random kid suddenly claimed to be his relative, wouldn't his face give it away immediately?

Wouldn't Hayashi Yoshiki have noticed?

But if so… why did he never question it?

And that suit... that cold, dark suit.

Conan's mind raced. Could it be… were Hayashi Yoshiki and Haibara Ai actually in league with the Organization?

He quickly shook the thought away.

No—Yoshiki-san is kind and gentle. He even risked his life to save me before.

Understanding and Reassurance

"Why aren't you smiling?" Hayashi Yoshiki asked softly. "If you keep a stern face, people will get suspicious."

"...I can't laugh."

He ruffled her hair gently.

Her hair was soft and well-kept—like a house cat's. She didn't resist his touch.

But something about her was tense, he could tell.

"Did someone upset you?"

"No," she replied flatly. (Do you really think I'm a child?)

"You don't have to say it. I can guess—it was something Edogawa Conan said, wasn't it?"

His tone remained warm, and kind.

"Don't take it to heart. You didn't mean to harm anyone. Just like a bullet's evil isn't born from the factory that forged it."

She froze.

It was the first time she'd ever seen him smile this way.

His refined face looked… almost luminous. His dark eyes held warmth. His lips curved gently, with a sincere, thoughtful light.

Is this… an act? she wondered.

But no—it didn't feel like that.

The warmth from his hand, still resting on her head, was real.

"I heard there was a disk containing drug data that was accidentally sent to your sister's university professor, right?"

"...How do you know that?"

"We'll talk to Conan about it tomorrow night. Not today."

He didn't elaborate.

Hayashi looked over to Conan and Agasa with a pleasant expression.

"Has this girl always been like this, Professor?"

"Ah, ah! Yes, yes… Ai isn't the type to be outwardly affectionate, hahaha."

"As long as she's doing alright, that's all that matters." He turned to Agasa again. "By the way, Professor, can I ask you something?"

"Of course."

"Is there a kind of coating or chemical that could make paper more fire-resistant—without interfering with how it's normally used?"

"Hmm… a flame-retardant for paper?"

Agasa frowned, rubbing his chin.

"That's a tough one. I'd need time to think it through."

"That's fine. Let me know when you have something."

Hayashi smiled again.

Using invisible ink on the Death Note was incredibly effective.

But there was one issue: the paper itself wasn't fireproof. It could burn too easily.

That's why Hayashi Yoshiki always carefully hovered it above the flame, using heat to reveal hidden writing instead of risking direct contact.

But that wasn't enough.

He needed to improve his methods—refine the craft.

Because the stakes were only going to get higher.

 

Chapter 124 - 124: Conan: "No matter how hard I try, I can't win"

Haibara Ai had once made a critical mistake.

She accidentally sent a disk containing confidential research data on Drug A to the university professor of her sister, Miyano Akemi.

In the original timeline, she had reported this to Dr. Agasa and Conan, and the three of them rushed to retrieve the disk. But the moment it was inserted into the professor's computer, the screen went black—the disk had triggered the "Dark Night Baron" virus.

It was a built-in self-destruction mechanism: any data that left the Organization and was run on unauthorized hardware would be erased instantly.

A rare archive, lost forever.

But this time, Hayashi Yoshiki was there.

He used the Death Note to manipulate a disposable accomplice who intercepted and saved the disk before it was destroyed.

His current strategy? Get someone from the Organization to access it via an authorized terminal—bypassing the virus. Then, later, when artificial intelligence matures… well, AI might prove a safer way to extract the data entirely.

"Still early," he muttered.

Blazing down the highway, Hayashi Yoshiki glanced at the dashboard clock: just past 4:00 p.m.

He was headed toward Ekoda City.

First, Koizumi Akako had texted him the night before, saying she had something for him.

Second, he had nothing else planned—and a leisurely drive sounded like a fine way to unwind.

Their meeting time was set for 4:40. More than enough time.

Ding-a-ling-ling!

His phone rang just as he passed a highway sign.

It was Inspector Megure Juzo.

"Hello, Inspector Megure?"

"This is bad, Brother Hayashi!!"

"What happened?"

"A criminal just called and claimed he's planted five bombs on the Toudou Loop Line! He says they'll explode after 4 p.m. if any train drops below 60 km/h! And if they aren't defused by sunset, they'll go off automatically!"

Megure's voice was breathless, frantic.

"Where are you? I'm with Mouri Kogoro right now—we're heading to the Yamanote Line command center. We need every hand available!"

"I'm currently en route to Ekoda City," Hayashi Yoshiki replied, steering with one hand.

"Please, Hayashi! This guy's for real—a bomb already exploded in the park! If it hadn't been for Conan, we'd have casualties by now!"

Megure's voice dropped with urgency.

"Lives are on the line. Tens of thousands of people ride the Loop Line."

"Inspector Megure, relay what the criminal said again!" Conan called out, voice muffled by the bandages on his head.

Megure repeated quickly: "The bombs are hidden at the 'X' positions along the Yamanote Line. Each 'X' represents a word. We're still decoding it."

"I see," Hayashi Yoshiki replied.

"I guess that the bombs are installed between the tracks."

"Huh?"

"Think about it. If the train drops below 60 km/h, or if it's after sunset, the bombs detonate. That sounds like a light-sensitive trigger."

"If the train passes over the bomb too slowly, it casts a shadow too long—blocking light. The bomb interprets this as a trigger condition."

"So, if the train is moved to another track, avoiding these bombs entirely, there's no trigger. That's your best option."

"..."

Silence fell.

Hayashi's voice carried clearly over Megure's speakerphone, and everyone in the hospital room heard it—including Mouri Kogoro, Conan, and the railway officials.

Outside, occasional car horns sounded from Hayashi's end.

"Are you serious, Yoshiki?!"

Kogoro stepped forward, grabbing the phone.

"There are tens of thousands of people on those trains. If you're wrong, this could be a massacre!"

"It's the most reasonable explanation so far. Have the Railway Bureau started scanning the trains?"

"We're investigating now."

"It's just after 4. We have nearly two hours until sunset. Use that time to verify. If bombs are found inside the carriages, great. If not—it's almost certainly my scenario."

"You're right," Kogoro admitted, nodding slowly.

Even Conan, lying stiffly in bed, gave a weary but respectful nod. Whether by logic or instinct, Hayashi Yoshiki's deduction was correct.

But…

Why does it always feel like he's a step ahead?

Conan couldn't tell if the tightness in his head was the bandage—or the humbling realization that even in his prime, he might not beat this man.

Megure took back the phone and said with renewed resolve:

"Understood. I'll have the Railway Bureau carry out your suggestion. And Brother Hayashi—if this works, we won't forget your contribution."

"Don't worry about that now. Just make sure everyone gets out safely," Yoshiki replied, flatly.

The call ended.

Hayashi Yoshiki reached a red light. Two minutes to spare.

He retrieved his notebook, flipped it open, and wrote:

->Name: Moriya Teiji->Time of Death: 17:31, September 21->Cause: "Writes down the locations of his bombs and gunpowder reserves, and sends the file to the following anonymous email address: XXXXXXXX.XXXX.That night, boards the Shinkansen to Yokohama.Three days later, flies abroad, pretending it's a vacation.On the fifth day, dies in a car crash."

Hayashi Yoshiki had been waiting for him.

An architect and bomb expert with a dangerous obsession—Moriya Teiji was a man of rigid, almost pathological aesthetics. Hayashi had long been fascinated by his brand of madness.

And now, he finally had the chance to use him—to test whether the "Death Note's rule" (that it could not kill indirectly through third parties) had any exploitable loopholes.

A perfect opportunity to integrate the "script."

With less than 30 minutes of driving left, Hayashi Yoshiki stepped back on the gas.

Destination: Koizumi Akako.

Time to see what this witch had waiting for him.

 

Chapter 125 - 125: The Effects of Magic and the Night News

Ekoda City — 4:40 p.m.

"Sorry for the wait."

"It's exactly 4:40, so technically you're right on time. But this is a pretty remote place to meet, you know."

"Well, that's because a super-beauty like me getting into your car in public would cause you trouble, detective. Hoo hoo hoo~"

"..."

That was… not untrue.

She said it with zero shame, but it was enough to make everyone else feel embarrassed on her behalf.

It was a quiet afternoon when Koizumi Akako stepped into Hayashi Yoshiki's car at the alley entrance near the Ekoda Library.

And while her comments were eccentric, her beauty was undeniable.

Today, she wore a burgundy short-sleeved T-shirt and blue denim hot pants that emphasized her figure. Sitting gracefully in the passenger seat, she looked like a professional model—long legs, perfect curves, and an effortless aura. Her crimson-purple hair shimmered as she casually brushed it aside, her elegant eyes glowing with mischievous allure.

"So… where are we going?"

"Isn't it a little inappropriate to ask a girl that question?"

"I'm not really the assertive type. Besides, I don't know much about Ekoda City."

"I figured someone like you would come fully armed with a plan."

Akako snorted softly, a hint of pride in her tone.

But Hayashi Yoshiki just smiled and kept his eyes on the road. He didn't engage, nor did he seem particularly affected by her charm.

What the hell?

It was one thing not to flirt over text, but even face-to-face, this man showed no interest? Just like that frustrating Kaito Kuroba!

Akako felt a flash of annoyance—but composed herself quickly.

Today wasn't really a date. It was a calculated meeting.

She had something prepared… something magical. Her goal was to uncover Hayashi Yoshiki's secret—and maybe, just maybe, make this terrifying man fall hopelessly for her.

The very thought made her grin mischievously.

"Alright then, maybe I should just give this to you first."

"What's that?"

"Something I made myself. Accept it with gratitude."

"...Chocolate? But it's not Valentine's Day."

"You seriously think a witch like me follows human customs? Waiting for a holiday to give something away? Hah—what a narrow-minded man."

"Fair enough. Then I'll accept it."

Hayashi Yoshiki took the chocolate calmly.

Akako was pleased—but not satisfied.

She needed to see him eat it.

Ekoda City had a slower pace than Beika. As they drove leisurely, they passed a municipal aquarium.

"Want to stop by?"

"Sure, why not?"

Akako didn't care where they went. She had one goal: get him to eat that chocolate.

Yoshiki, meanwhile, had his own reasons for indulging in the outing.

They wandered the aquarium as if on a real date. While Akako went to the restroom, Yoshiki examined the chocolate she gave him.

Interesting…

After some preparation, he waited for her to return.

"What do you think?"

"The fish variety is nice."

"I was thinking of hitting a seafood place for dinner."

"That's not romantic at all!"

Despite the protest, she didn't object—and so dinner was set.

During the meal, Hayashi Yoshiki asked many questions about magic.

Akako was surprisingly open. She didn't mind revealing the basics of witchcraft.

In turn, she asked him about this ability to "foresee the deaths of others." He gave a vague answer.

Just keep pretending. Once you eat my chocolate, I'll know everything…

When dinner ended, Akako leaned in with feigned casualness:

"Aren't you going to open the gift I gave you?"

"The chocolate? I'm not really into sweets..."

Knew it!

She internally scoffed—but kept a straight face.

"Who said it's chocolate?"

"Isn't it?"

Cornered, Hayashi Yoshiki pulled out the package and opened it.

Yup. Chocolate.

He peeled one open and took a bite.

Akako watched intently.

The flavors were deep—bittersweet chocolate, honey, spices, nuts. He wasn't fond of sweets, but he ate about a third.

"The chocolate's really good," he said.

"...That's it?"

"What?"

"Nothing."

He smiled gently. "Sorry, I've got work to do. Shall I take you home?"

"...Don't you feel anything?"

"Anything?"

He looked genuinely confused.

Akako froze.

The magic didn't work!?

This wasn't a pill—it was magic. She had enchanted the chocolate herself. Anyone who ate it would become her love slave!

Yet… nothing?

Was Hayashi Yoshiki immune?

As he drove her back, Akako stared at him, utterly perplexed.

At a red light, she blurted:

"Are you sure you don't feel anything?"

"Hmm? Akako-san, you've been acting odd since I ate that chocolate. Could it be… there was a spell on it?"

"!"

Caught off guard, Akako panicked.

"W-What are you talking about!? As if I'd do something so childish!"

"I see."

He smiled.

The light turned green, and they moved on.

The shadows of streetlamps flicked across the windshield.

Koizumi Akako bit her nails, seething inside.

First Kaito Kuroba, now this guy...!

But Hayashi Yoshiki was even worse. He actually ate the chocolate.

There had to be something strange about him.

When they arrived at her house—an elegant Western-style residence in the suburbs—she was still fixated on it.

She didn't realize they'd stopped until he said:

"We're here."

Snapping out of it, she went to unbuckle her seatbelt.

Click. Click...

"It's stuck?"

"Let me check."

He leaned in.

She didn't resist. The belt was tight, and he needed to move closer to fix it.

From her angle, she could see his perfect profile, his focused eyes, his serious expression…

Click.

The belt came loose.

"Thanks."

"You're welcome."

He looked up and smiled at her.

Just one glance—

"What's wrong?"

"Hm?"

He didn't answer.

He just stared at her.

His gaze was intense. Too intense. Her breath caught.

"W-What's wrong...?"

The moonlight streamed faintly into the car.

She could just barely make out the shape of his collarbone beneath his shirt. His eyes shimmered darkly.

"Akako-san..."

"Wa—?"

Before she could react—

He kissed her.

Her eyes widened.

Mint.

Warmth.

Presence.

It overwhelmed her senses.

She instantly knew:

The magic hadn't failed.

But just as quickly, he pulled away.

"S-Sorry…"

His handsome face looked dazed. Confused. Guilty.

"I don't know what came over me… I couldn't help myself."

Koizumi Akako stared.

His lips were slightly parted. Moist.

Her face flushed red.

Without thinking, she shouted,

"T-This isn't over!"

And bolted from the car.

She slammed the door of her home and leaned against it, gasping.

What the hell just happened?!

Her cheeks were burning.

This was her first time seeing the chocolate's magic take hold—for once, it had worked.

But instead of victory, she felt flustered. Her heart wouldn't stop racing.

"Master Akako, is everything alright?"

The old butler appeared.

"It's nothing."

She stormed past him and went straight to the bathroom.

The hot shower did nothing to settle her nerves. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw it again—that kiss.

Afterward, she stood in front of the mirror.

She was beautiful.

Delicate, sultry, dignified—her charm unquestionable. She had always been proud of her allure.

But now?

She grit her teeth.

"Damn you, Hayashi Yoshiki…!"

On the News

She flipped on the TV.

Breaking News:

"Today's Incident: Why the Tokyo Loop Line Delayed Operations"

"Due to an emergency, the train ran without stopping for nearly 40 minutes."

Inspector Megure Juzo appeared on the screen.

"We received a threat—five bombs planted on the Yamanote Line. If train speed fell below 60 km/h, or if the sunset, they'd detonate. We had no choice but to reroute and maintain motion for passenger safety."

"We must give special thanks to Detective Hayashi Yoshiki. He helped us decode the criminal's logic in real-time and prevented a disaster."

"We've located the suspect, and arrest procedures are underway."

A reporter asked, "You said the detective solved it immediately?"

"Yes," Megure said. "Here's a recording of our call."

Hayashi's calm voice rang out from the speakers:

"The bomb may be buried between the tracks. If the train slows or light is blocked too long…"

Akako's jaw dropped.

Wasn't that just 30 minutes before he met me!?

He did something that incredible—and still showed up perfectly on time…?!

She was speechless.

For once, the witch felt thoroughly outclassed.

 

 

Chapter 126 - 126: Building Momentum

A Bar, Dimly Lit — Late Evening

On the TV in the corner, the news was still broadcasting coverage of the afternoon's incident on the Tokyo Loop Line.

"Cointreau is even more famous now,"

Vodka muttered, holding a cigarette between his fingers—though he didn't light it.

He hesitated, brow furrowed.

"But... wasn't that going too far?"

"What did you say?" Tequila turned to him sharply.

"...There were tens of thousands of people on that train line. If anything went wrong, thousands could have died."

Even Vodka, usually calm and indifferent, felt a chill run down his spine.

He remembered what his older brother Gin had once mentioned—Cointreau, real name Hayashi Yoshiki, had been instigating and manipulating others into committing crimes. Then, he'd conveniently step in as a "detective" and solve the case.

A perfect game.

It satisfied his desire for control and bloodshed, allowed him to play the hero, and earned him public admiration.

At first, Vodka thought Gin might be overthinking it.

But now?

After seeing how flawlessly Cointreau deduced everything, time and again—if those crimes weren't orchestrated by him from the start, Vodka would gladly eat the wine glass in front of him.

"…"

Gin remained silent, cigarette between his lips.

He was thinking too.

What if—this time—Cointreau wasn't playing detective?

What if he'd actually planted a bomb?

The man's actions were becoming increasingly extreme. At first, it was just "accidental" killings. Now, whole city blocks could be at risk.

A knife too sharp is dangerous to its wielder.

With no solution in sight, Gin simply downed his drink in silence.

Meanwhile… Back to Beika Town

Hayashi Yoshiki was behind the wheel, cruising through the quiet city streets when his phone rang.

Asamiya, his excitable editor from Futaba Publishing, was on the other end.

"Teacher Hayashi!!!"

"Uh… yes?"

"Thank you so much!! To be honest, I was on the Loop Line today—uwaaaa! When I saw the news, I almost cried!"

"Also! Your popularity's exploded! The president wants to strike while the iron's hot—can we move up the release and do a signing event earlier?!"

Hayashi laughed and agreed without fuss.

He told her to send the updated plan later and ended the call.

Inspector Megure really is a straightforward man.

Of course, the police chief had asked for Hayashi's consent before naming him publicly. It had worked out well for both sides.

Now, there was still one dangling thread—

Koizumi Akako.

She hadn't messaged him since the other night. And he didn't plan to bring it up himself.

Let her process that chaos on her own.

Women like her—self-centered and narcissistic—were easy to handle.

Once her pride was cracked, all you had to do was step back. She'd unravel herself without help.

As for that "love chocolate," Hayashi thought as he patted the inner pocket of his coat, I never ate it.

What he had actually eaten at the restaurant was a decoy—ordinary chocolate he'd swapped out that morning.

The real one? Still intact.

He was more curious now: what would happen if someone like Gin ate it?

...Though with Gin's paranoia, he'd never eat something unverified.

Maybe Rum, in his chef disguise, might take the bait. If the image mattered enough.

Either way, for now—the chocolate was safely stored.

The launch date for Hayashi Yoshiki's new novel was now set: ten days from now.

The official announcement had come in last night.

By morning, Futaba Publishing had kicked off a full-scale marketing campaign.

Elsewhere: Detective Jealousy

At home, Mouri Kogoro was flipping through the morning paper, hoping to bask in last night's success.

But when he opened to the front page—

Hayashi Yoshiki's face was there instead.

Worse yet, a feature article had paired him with someone else Kogoro cared about...

"I heard Ms. Yoko is a loyal fan of Mr. Hayashi Yoshiki. Is that true?"

"Yes~ I'm definitely his most loyal fan!" smiled Yoko Okino in the interview. "Mr. Hayashi was our creative consultant during the TV series I starred in. We spoke often—he's incredibly talented."

"So, would you say you're close?"

"Well… let's just say he's the person I admire most. Please support his new book!"

Next to the article was a picture of Yoko—radiant and winking delicately.

Kogoro nearly exploded with jealousy.

"Damn it… Even Yoko-chan supports this guy? If only it were me instead of him…"

His words practically oozed envy.

Across the room, Conan, pale from a cold and masked up, stared at him with lifeless eyes.

And it wasn't just Yoko.

Even Kogoro's father, in a clever nod within "The Earl of Darkness," had inserted an Easter egg linking it to "Kindaichi."

"Because Hayashi-sensei's writing is really good," said Ran, walking in with her school bag. "Lots of my classmates are reading it too."

Conan blinked.

"Ran-neechan, where are you headed?"

"Didn't I tell you? I'm going to that online chat room party with Sonoko. Yoshiki-kun is giving us a ride."

"What!?"

Conan froze.

"Why does he have to drive you?"

Ran thought back to Sonoko's dramatic plea—hands clasped, begging her to invite Hayashi.

She'd agreed out of pity.

Hayashi accepted immediately... and then asked if he could bring a guest.

Ran had to check with Sonoko first. But when she told her—

"WHAT?! Hayashi-san wants to bring a girl?! NO WAY!!!"

A real tragedy for poor Sonoko.

Ran had only offered a wry smile in response… but secretly, she was a bit curious too.

What kind of girl would Hayashi bring to a party?

Conan looked like he'd been struck by lightning.

(Sonoko, you gossiping maniac…!)

"I want to go too!"

He raised his hand firmly.

There's no way I'm letting Ran go off alone with that guy!

"No, Conan," Ran said gently, forming an 'X' with her arms. "You're still recovering from a cold."

Conan: 🧍🏻‍♂️

Dead inside.

 

Chapter 127 - 127: Damn Cointreau! Are you sick?

On the Road, Beika to the Party Venue

It was snowing today.

The sky was a pale ink gray, heavy with clouds. A single ray of sunlight occasionally slipped through the breaks above. Snowflakes dusted the rooftops like powdered sugar.

Outside, the cold was bitter, but it couldn't chill Suzuki Sonoko's excitement.

Brother Yoshiki is so handsome!!

She practically screamed internally, cheeks flushed with glee.

Earlier, when Ran had told her that Hayashi Yoshiki would be bringing a girl with him to the party, Sonoko thought her world had shattered.

But when she saw who the girl was, her spirits revived instantly.

"Why am I even coming to this?"Haibara Ai muttered from the front passenger seat, eyes fixed on the snow-lined road ahead.

"Isn't snow kind of romantic?"Yoshiki answered with a warm smile.

"He's right, it'll be fun!"Sonoko leaned forward from the back seat, elbows resting between the two front seats.

She beamed at Haibara Ai, trying to make conversation—even though she wasn't sure what kind of relationship this mysterious child had with Brother Yoshiki.

But Haibara just gave her a deadpan look—full of the same quiet disdain that Conan often directed at Sonoko.

Why do both these brats have the same attitude?!

Still, Sonoko was too cheerful to care. She shifted topics and convinced Ran to help her demonstrate a magic trick: the classic ring-threading illusion.

Fortunately, there was no Conan around this time to expose it.

"The people you're meeting today are all magic enthusiasts, right?"Hayashi asked.

"Yeah! We met in an online chat room. Then someone suggested we do an offline meetup."

"And this Doi Takeshu you mentioned earlier—?"

"Ahem! Ran, don't ruin my big reveal!"Sonoko interrupted with an exaggerated yell, even clamping a hand over Ran's mouth.

Watching the two girls in the rearview mirror, Haibara sighed quietly. Her gaze shifted to Hayashi Yoshiki, calm and amused behind the wheel.

So this is what Cointreau's daily life looks like...?

Compared to Gin's constant pressure and tension, this world of laughter and snow seemed like an entirely different universe.

"So, Sonoko's been pretending to be a 30-year-old man in that chatroom?"

"That's right! Just imagine their faces when I reveal who I really am!"

"Then how about this—I help you with your appearance?"Yoshiki offered with a teasing smile. "Something bold might really stun them."

Sonoko's eyes lit up.

Of course, she agreed! Not only was Hayashi known for having great taste—but the idea of getting a makeover from him made her giddy.

"The party's in the afternoon, right? Let's swing by a salon first."

"W-Wow... Sonoko!!"

Ran's delighted gasp filled the salon as she stared at her best friend.

Suzuki Sonoko's hair had just been trimmed and lightly permed. The transformation was stunning.

"How is it...?" Sonoko asked, half-nervous, half-proud.

"You look amazing!"Ran beamed. "Seriously—it's perfect for you!"

Flustered by the praise, Sonoko looked into the mirror.

The girl staring back had a fresh bob cut, and soft waves at the ends… strikingly similar to Haibara Ai's style.

Whoa… Am I actually pretty?

Sonoko smiled wide, soaking in her own beauty.

"Brother Yoshiki, you're amazing."Ran turned to him, impressed.

Hayashi just smiled modestly, offering no comment.

The truth was that Sonoko had already dressed with care that day. All it took was removing the gaudy headband and reshaping her haircut to unlock a completely new look.

Haibara Ai, watching silently, gave a slight approving nod.

Though she usually acted aloof, her habit of flipping through fashion magazines revealed her secret appreciation for good styling.

As everyone basked in the transformation, Hayashi Yoshiki quietly snapped a photo of Sonoko from the side—capturing just the right angle without anyone noticing.

He sent the image to a certain someone.

Elsewhere… A Disturbance in the Shadows

Inside a dim safehouse, Gin had just laid down to rest after another long night.

But as soon as his phone vibrated—

He opened it with a single motion.

Cointreau: Picture.jpg

!!!

Gin jolted upright, his sharp green eyes narrowing as he stared at the photo.

A woman.

Same hairstyle. Similar profile.

That unmistakable aura of Shirley.

A secret photo—clearly taken in haste.

No context, and no caption.

Cointreau spotted her and immediately sent a warning? Without alerting the girl?

Gin's fatigue vanished. He leaped to his feet, sending a message asking for the address as he slammed open the door to the next room.

BANG!

The door nearly came off its hinges.

"Wh-what's wrong, bro?!"Vodka sprang up in panic.

"Cointreau's found Shirley."

"Wha—!?"

Vodka scrambled to grab his coat and phone. Within minutes, the two were in a black sedan, screeching away from the safehouse.

No Signal

But there was one problem—

Cointreau wasn't answering.

His phone was off.

Could he have been ambushed?

Gin's jaw clenched.

He'd long suspected that another rival organization had taken Shirley. If she had truly resurfaced—and if Cointreau was now missing—it could mean trouble.

"Track Cointreau's license plate. Now."

"Got it!"

Vodka got to work immediately.

Incoming… More Photos

Twenty minutes later, they finally located Hayashi Yoshiki's vehicle's GPS trail.

But just as Vodka hit the accelerator—

Buzz!Buzz!

More notifications lit up Gin's phone.

Cointreau: Picture.jpgCointreau: Picture.jpgCointreau: Picture.jpgCointreau: "…"

Multiple photos. All of the same girl—laughing, playful, sticking out her tongue in front of a mirror.

Still bearing that Shirley-like haircut.

Cointreau:"Phone died earlier. Just swapped the battery.""Well? Looks similar, doesn't she?"

For a moment, Gin was silent.

Then—

CRACK.

His grip tightened so hard around the phone that the plastic casing groaned.

"Damn Cointreau. Are you mentally ill?"

 

 

Chapter 128 - 128: Then answer me with a smile

Arrival at the Villa

After sending a handful of photos to Gin, Hayashi Yoshiki received no reply.

Strange... shouldn't he be sleeping by now?

He chuckled to himself as he continued the drive.

Their destination was a quaint Western-style villa nestled on a snow-covered hillside. The snowfall had intensified, blanketing the surroundings in white. A suspension bridge loomed ahead, swaying lightly in the wind, too narrow for the car. They parked and crossed the bridge on foot.

"It's snowing so hard today!" Ran said.

"Feels like perfect weather for a snowball fight," Sonoko added with excitement.

"Maybe we can go out and play later."

"Will Ai-chan be cold?" Ran turned to ask, concerned.

"…I don't think so." Haibara Ai replied, her tone flat as always.

Their banter echoed softly as they walked toward the villa, the crunch of snow beneath their feet adding rhythm to their conversation.

"The whole setting's like something out of a novel…" Sonoko mused. "Suspension bridge, hilltop manor—classic."

"What are you talking about?" Ran asked.

"He's probably referencing the Snowstorm Manor trope," Haibara explained evenly. "It's a common setup in detective fiction. A group of people are trapped in an isolated setting—like a mountain villa during a blizzard—and a murder occurs. No way to contact the outside world, no way to leave."

"Right," Yoshiki added. "If this bridge collapsed and the mansion's signal cut out, we'd be in a textbook Snowstorm Manor case."

He smiled as he said it, but then added:

"Not your kind of topic, I imagine. We won't go too deep."

"Well… I guess it's fine," Ran said with a nervous smile, echoing how she used to respond when Shinichi rambled about similar things.

They reached the front steps.

Sonoko rang the doorbell, a mix of pride and nerves dancing in her expression. She was eager to see the online crowd's reaction when they realized the "30-year-old man" they'd been chatting with was, in fact, a high school girl.

The door opened.

A friendly older man smiled warmly.

"Welcome! You must be Magician's Apprentice, right?"

"…Yeah, but—how did you know?"

"Your tone online gave it away immediately. You sound exactly like a girl pretending to be a man."

Behind him, laughter erupted. Other party guests—fellow chatroom members—peeked around the doorway, grinning.

One of the girls chimed in:

"I knew from the first message! I was dying behind my screen."

Sonoko's triumphant reveal turned into a blush-filled embarrassment.

Things only got worse when she saw Red Herring, aka Katsuki Doito—a chubby young man with cheerful eyes and no trace of the cool mystery she'd imagined.

Fantasy: shattered.

She sighed heavily, then turned toward Hayashi Yoshiki, silently thanking the heavens that she had asked him to come along.

Unbeknownst to her, Kuroba Kaito—disguised as Doito—recognized Hayashi at a glance. He hid his smirk and mentally bookmarked the moment for a later prank.

"Who are your guests?"

"I'm Mōri Ran," Ran said politely. "I'm here with Sonoko."

"Sorry for the intrusion," Yoshiki added. "I'm Hayashi Yoshiki."

"Ah! That Hayashi Yoshiki?!"

The mention of his name lit up the room. Thanks to Futaba Publishing's aggressive marketing push, nearly everyone had heard of him. The gathering transformed into a mini-fan event.

Yoshiki, ever gracious, signed autographs and exchanged pleasantries.

Soon, rooms were assigned.

Ran and Sonoko shared one, of course. Haibara, younger and unfamiliar to most, ended up in the same room as Hayashi Yoshiki.

"How are you feeling?" Yoshiki asked, setting down his bag.

"What?"

"About anything. No wrong answer."

Yoshiki walked to the sliding door and stepped out onto the balcony.

Outside, the snow had turned the world silver. The pine trees shimmered under their frosty coats, and sunlight peeked through thin clouds. The view was breathtaking.

"Not bad for someone who spent so long cooped up in a lab, right?"He leaned against the railing and smiled gently. "You're smart. You're cute in your current form. Smile a little."

Haibara Ai blinked.

Smile…?

No one had ever told her that before.

She didn't respond, but her feet carried her to the balcony. She stared out at the snow silently.

"It's beautiful," she murmured, "but... cold."

"Careful not to catch one, then."

Yoshiki squatted down and gently wrapped his scarf around her neck, adjusting it so it sat fluffy and warm. The fabric still held his body heat.

"…Thank you."

"You've said that before."

"You can't just stop saying it because it's been said too much."

To her, saving her sister—and herself—was an unpayable debt. That, more than anything, made her strive to be a little warmer, despite her nature.

"Then repay me with a smile, even just this once."

"…"

With two fingers, he pressed lightly on both corners of her lips, curling them upward.

It looked awkward—but adorably sincere.

She let him, lips twitching into a crooked smile as he chuckled and stood up again.

What is he thinking...?

He looked out at the snowy forest again, peaceful, enigmatic.

He wasn't like Gin or the rest of the cold-hearted Organization. And yet... there was no going back for him.

What kind of pressure was he carrying?

What kind of pain?

Maybe the only one who truly understands me… is him.

She tugged the scarf a little tighter around her neck.

Then walked up beside him, shoulder to shoulder.

"…"

The snow fell silently.

Hayashi Yoshiki admired the pristine landscape, but inside, he was scheming.

Would it be worth it to sneak into the kitchen… just to toss a frozen fish at Kuroba Kaito?

Tempting, but—

Ugh. The fish are probably freezing cold.

 

 

Chapter 129 - 129: Gin: "Get out of here!"

Fish.

A real, live, slippery one.

Wearing heat-resistant kitchen gloves, Hayashi Yoshiki fished a lively carp from the sink and strolled into the villa's living room.

There, Katsuki Doito—a round, cheerful-looking young man—was chatting animatedly with other party guests.

"Mr. Doito, could you hold this for me?"

"Eh? Sure—"

Before he could finish, Yoshiki dropped the fish right into his arms.

With a wet flop, it slipped into the crook of his elbow.

Doito froze.

Then the fish twitched.

The moment Kuroba Kaito—hidden beneath the disguise of Doito—registered the slimy weight, his eyes widened in abject horror.

"AAAAAHHHH!!!"

He shrieked like a startled ballerina and flailed his arms, launching the fish across the room.

Guests turned, confused.

"What's wrong?""Are you okay, Doito?"

Kaito, gasping, locked eyes with Yoshiki's calmly amused expression. He immediately realized: he'd figured me out.

Panic danced behind his fake glasses.

"Excuse me, are you from... Ekoda —"

"Wait!!"

Kaito lunged and slapped his hand over Yoshiki's mouth.

But Yoshiki—ever the planner—had already stepped back, leaving the statement unfinished.

Sonoko tilted her head.

"You know Doito...?"

"Ahaha! Yes, we're old friends!"Kaito cut in quickly, forcing a laugh.

He gently pushed Yoshiki out into the hallway.

Ran and Sonoko watched with puzzled eyes. Haibara Ai, on the other hand, narrowed hers slightly.

In the hallway, once out of sight, Kaito whipped off his mask, revealing his true face.

"How'd you figure it out?!"

"You did it to yourself."

"Huh?"

"Katsuki Doito—written in kana, that's どいとうかっき. Rearranged, it becomes かいとうきっど—Kaitou Kid."

Yoshiki smiled lightly.

"You're all the same... romanticizing the game, leaving clues."

"You're a mystery novelist, huh."

"That's why I saw through it. Your username in the chatroom is Red Herring—a classic misdirection trope."

Kaito paused, then smiled in defeat.

"You're not like other detectives. You don't think logically. You sniff things out like an animal."

"Thank you."

"So? What are you doing here?"

"Well…"

Kaito launched into his explanation.

The chatroom was filled with amateur magic fans—but one member, Harui Fuden, was a retired professional magician.

He'd been ridiculed in the chat for being "washed up."

In an effort to prove himself, Harui had planned one last dramatic escape performance. Afterward, he intended to reveal his true identity to the chat.

But he failed.

Harui died on stage.

"And now his account—'Little Rogue'—is mysteriously active again."

Kaito frowned.

"Creepy, right? I wanted to see what was going on."

Yoshiki's brows furrowed slightly.

"Sounds like the start of a murder case."

"Yeah. Whether it is or not, I'll keep an eye out."

Kaito nodded, donned his fat-man disguise again, and strolled back into the living room, grinning.

Yoshiki returned a moment later and sat quietly on the couch.

Just Friends… For Now

"Brother Yoshiki?"

Ran and Sonoko were still curious.

"Yes, we're friends. In fact, you've met him before."

"Eh?"

"But… I don't remember?"

Yoshiki left it at that, his cryptic tone prompting another long silence. Haibara Ai, however, quietly examined Doi again.

A moment later, Sonoko approached.

"Wanna play in the snow, Brother Yoshiki?"

"Sure."

"Eh?! You agreed so easily!"

She blinked in surprise.

Every guy I've liked before was so aloof… but you're just… kind.

She beamed.

"Ai, come on!"

"…Okay."

And so the trio—Ran, Sonoko, Yoshiki—and a very small Haibara stepped into the snowy yard.

While the others admired the view and built snowballs, Haibara glanced over.

Yoshiki wasn't using his usual phone. He was texting from another.

She narrowed her eyes.

Inside that message thread, Yoshiki selected the photo he'd taken earlier—a blurry side-angle of Sonoko with her new hairstyle, uncannily similar to Miyano Shiho.

He sent it to Vodka.

Meanwhile, at the Safehouse

Vodka was lounging in front of an old videotape concert recording of an idol when his phone buzzed.

Cointreau: Photo.jpg

He opened the image—and froze.

Shirley.

His eyes widened. He instinctively looked toward Gin's room.

Ordinarily, he would've gone straight to his brother.

But...

A few hours earlier, Gin had stormed out, furious that Yoshiki had "found Shirley," only to return and sleep in silence.

What's going on...?

Unsure, Vodka sent a message.

Vodka: "Should I tell Big Brother?"

Cointreau: "You're asking me?"

Vodka paled.

This guy… is scarier than Gin.

He hesitated.

Then, realizing some mistakes couldn't be undone, he knocked on Gin's door.

Gin's eyes snapped open at the sound of footsteps.

"What is it?"

"Brother… look at this."

Vodka handed over the phone.

The image glowed on the screen.

Gin's gaze darkened the moment he saw the sender.

Cointreau.

He stared for a second.

Then growled:

"Get out."

 

 

Chapter 130 - 130: Snowman

When it's cold, every breath becomes a cloud—soft and white like the sky above, heavy with thick, unmoving clouds.

Each step left a crisp footprint in the fresh snow.

Haibara Ai, wrapped in a thick scarf and warm gloves, paused and gazed toward the horizon. The sun hung low, tinged with orange, just beginning to dip.

It's beautiful...

For a girl who had lived most of her life in the sterile confinement of laboratories, this open world felt vibrant—so vivid, so free, even the biting wind slipping into her coat was novel and... strangely welcome.

She instinctively tugged her scarf closer around her neck.

"Brother Yoshiki, do you want to build a snowman?"Ran called out with a wave.

"Sure, let's do it."Hayashi Yoshiki replied warmly.

"Yay!"Sonoko chimed in, practically skipping over to the snow.

The two girls immediately dropped to their knees and began scooping snow, their smiles unguarded and joyful.

Ai watched them for a moment.

It's nice...She thought again.

"When everyone decides to build a snowman, the last thing you should do is stand there doing nothing."

"I've never heard that rule before," she muttered.

"You did today."Yoshiki's soft chuckle lingered in the chilly air.

Haibara Ai—Miyano Shiho, by another name—was the kind of girl whose brilliance and burdens had long made her reluctant to engage in things as trivial as play. But given just a nudge, she often found herself giving in.

Finally, she bent down and scooped some snow.

"You need to squeeze it tight first."

"I know that…"

Her small, gloved hands worked to form a snowball.

Nearby, Ran and Sonoko were laughing over their own lumpy creation.

"It's freezing!"

"Then why'd you take your gloves off?"

"The warmth of your palm melts it slightly—makes it easier to shape!"

"Don't get frostbite."

"...That's possible?"

Their chatter filled the space with lightness.

Ai crouched down, rolling her snowball across the white expanse. Her cheeks flushed—perhaps from cold, perhaps not. Yoshiki crouched beside her.

His long, black coat shifted, shielding her from the wind like a curtain. That simple gesture warmed her more than she expected.

She glanced at him.

The soft sunlight fell in scattered beams over the snow and onto his features. His expression was gentle. The wind tousled his hair slightly, and his dark eyes held a quiet steadiness.

"It doesn't have to be perfectly round. We'll smooth it out later."

"How big should it be?"

"Hmm… maybe the size of that tree over there."

"Do I look like a seven-year-old to you?"

"If you want to deceive others, you have to fool yourself first."He gave her a teasing smile. "And honestly, you do look the part."

She didn't answer but didn't walk away either.

While Ran and Sonoko built theirs, Ai quietly worked on her own snowball—smaller, but perfectly round.

Soon, the two snowballs—one larger, one smaller—were stacked together.

"Wow, Ai! That's so good!"

"It's way rounder than ours," Ran added in admiration.

Haibara looked at both snowmen. She had done better.

But she merely said:

"It's fine."

"Come on! Kids are cuter when they're honest!"Sonoko teased, hands on her hips.

Hayashi Yoshiki reached out and gently ruffled Ai's hair.

She didn't flinch.

He keeps doing that now...

A Snowman, Finished

Yoshiki helped lift Ai's carefully shaped snowball onto the base, forming a perfect gourd-shaped snowman.

"Now we just need leaves and branches."

"Let's go!"Sonoko grabbed Ran, who then extended a hand to Ai.

She hesitated, then glanced at Yoshiki.

He smiled encouragingly.

So she reached out and took Ran's hand.

Maybe it's because my sister is still alive...But I feel more "cheerful" now than I once did.

The girls disappeared into the woods.

Yoshiki took out his second phone.

Vodka: "..."

Cointreau: "?"

Vodka: "It's nothing."

Having just been scolded, Vodka could only feign calm. He resumed watching his idol concert recording, brow furrowed and soul trembling.

The girls returned with twigs and dead leaves.

Yoshiki helped shape them into a face and arms. The finished snowman stood proud and cartoonish.

"So cute!!"Ran clapped her hands.

"Brother Jiashu, you're amazing!"

"Wasn't this all your hard work?" he replied modestly.

Then he turned toward Sonoko.

"Did you take your gloves off again?"

"Um… maybe a little…"

"Go soak your hands in warm water before you freeze them."

"Yes, sir…"

Sonoko nodded like a chick being scolded. Still, she wore the most satisfied smile on her face.

Yoshiki noticed Ai's scarf had come a bit loose.

He squatted beside her again.

He removed his gloves, gently cupping her cheeks—red from the cold—and pinched her ears lightly.

"..."

Her breath caught slightly. Her whole body stiffened.

Nobody had ever done this before.

His hands were warm.

He adjusted the scarf, careful to keep her bundled.

Her view blurred briefly from her own breath.

So this is... being taken care of.

"Brother Yoshiki, you're so gentle..."Ran said with a soft smile.

"Mhm."Sonoko nodded dreamily. She glanced at Ai with the tiniest hint of envy.

"Alright," Yoshiki finally said."Let's head back inside."