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Chapter Text

Kyoko Kirigiri watched as Makoto Naegi slowly moved closer to the crusher. She saw the terror in his eyes with every thump of the machinery behind him, each one louder than the last. He could not see the device that was about to kill him. He knew it was coming. He just didn't know when, and it was getting closer and closer every second. Makoto's face turned blue. In mere moments, he would be crushed flat.

Kyoko clenched her teeth. Her heart pounded with the machinery.

I'm so sorry, Naegi, but I can't die here. I have to survive, or we will never find the truth. Like I said, I don't expect you to forgive me… I'm sorry…

But, was that really true? Was Kyoko really the only one who could defeat the mastermind? Or was that just her arrogant delusion? Was it her selfish desire to accomplish her goals? To find out, for sure, what had happened to her father? Or was she just a coward who refused to die for her friend?

As Makoto's head moved under the crusher, time seemed to stop.

Naegi, why did you let me do this? You should have stopped me. I know you could have stopped me. Why? Why did you protect me? Why didn't you save yourself? How could you die for someone who wouldn't do the same for you?

Or maybe he hadn't done it for her. Maybe Makoto had taken Kyoko's words to heart, that without Kyoko, the mysteries of the school would remain hidden forever. Had Makoto sacrificed himself to save Kyoko? Or to save everyone? What was Makoto's true motivation?

Kyoko desperately wanted to ask him, but unfortunately, that truth would die with him.

In the end, Makoto closed his eyes. Kyoko wanted to look away, but the least she could do was look at the man as she killed him.

The crusher came down, and Makoto's blood splattered all over it.

An icy chill ran down Kyoko's spine. It was done. Makoto was dead, all because of her.

She shivered. Makoto… was…

Kyoko collapsed to her knees. Tears welled up in her wide, horrified eyes. She had thought that she had been prepared this time. She had thought that she could handle sacrificing Makoto for the sake of her mission. She had thought that she had learned her lesson about getting too attached, and that she would never make that mistake again.

It was all too late that she realized, just how wrong she had been.

For the first time in years, Kyoko wept openly. Her tears fell to the floor. She wanted to stop them, but they kept coming. Her hands pounded into the floor as her wails echoed across the trial chamber. "N-Naegi-kun! I'm s-so sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I-I… I…"

"Puhuhu." Monokuma let out an amused snicker. "What's this? The iron mask of Kirigiri has finally broken? I don't believe it! For someone as stoic as you to suddenly show so much emotion, you two really were fucking in the bathhouse, weren't you?"

Monokuma gave a derisive laugh. "But Naegi sure paid for that little tryst! I can tell he was holding back! He was didn't want to betray his lover, but taking advantage of that weakness, she betrayed him! And so soon after being betrayed by Maizono! He just never learns, does he? AHAHAHAHAHA!"

Kyoko balled up her gloved hands into fists. "No, that's wrong."

Monokuma tilted his head. "Huh?"

Kyoko glared furiously at Monokuma. "Naegi didn't do it just for my sake. He did it because he saw through your trap. He gave his life to protect everyone who's still alive, and to avenge everyone you've killed. He died so we could still have hope, to defeat you. Don't you dare look down on his sacrifice!"

Monokuma laughed again. "Puhuhu. Is that what you're telling yourself? He died to stop me? Are you sure? Well, whatever helps you sleep at night. Either way, it doesn't change the fact that you sold him out! Naegi had so much faith in you! And this is how you repay him? With betrayal?! Sugarcoat it all you want, but in the end, you killed him to save yourself!"

Kyoko clutched her chest. There was no denying that. She had betrayed Makoto. "Even so, I can't let it be for nothing. I will end this damn game of yours! I won't let you kill anyone else!"

Monokuma hummed. "Will you, now? But how can that be, when you've already lost?"

A knot twisted in Kyoko's stomach. "H-huh? What?"

"Puhuhu. I was lying before. Naegi wasn't the blackened. In other words, you got it wrong!"

Sweat dripped down Kyoko's brow. "What are you saying?!"

Monokuma stared menacingly at Kyoko. "You thought it was Naegi, but it was me, Junko! And since you've failed to expose me, now you all die!"

Kyoko's face turned pale. "What? No, you can't…"

"And we'll start with the one who deserves it most of all! The traitorous bitch who betrayed her best friend! Kyoko Kirigiri!" Monokuma extended his claws. "Now, without further ado, it's punishment time!"

Monokuma lunged at Kyoko and stabbed his claws into her kneecap. Kyoko grimaced in sharp pain as adrenaline rushed through her. She tried to kick Monokuma with her other leg, but Monokuma slashed through her ankle. She grunted, blood dripping down her feet. Monokuma grabbed her foot and swept her to the ground. She fell hard on her back, and Monokuma jumped on top of her.

With a maniacal laugh, Monokuma brandished his claws and tore through Kyoko's chest. Crimson blood sprayed over Monokuma as he rapidly hacked away. Kyoko screamed. She held up her arms to shield herself, but Monokuma cut them up until she couldn't raise them anymore. His claws dug deep into her body. Kyoko became drenched in her own blood and sinew. The pain was excruciating. Kyoko did her best to stifle her cries of agony.

"G-get off me, you p-piece of… shit!"

Monokuma's red eye glowed. "What lovely final words!"

N-no, please, I don't want to…

Kyoko reached out with her bloody hand, as if someone would pull her to safety. Someone, anyone… please. Save me…

Naegi… help…

Monokuma's claws plunged into Kyoko's neck and tore it open. Blood poured out and…

Kyoko jolted upright in a cold sweat. Panting, she placed a hand on her chest and felt her pounding heartbeat.

Another one, huh?

Ugh, when would they stop? Kyoko threw her bedsheets aside and got up. She flicked on the lights. Her personal quarters were about the same size as her dorm room from Hope's Peak Academy, but the steel walls and flooring gave the place a spartan atmosphere. It was at least furnished decently with a cabinet, dressers, and a sofa. There was also a desk with neatly stacked files, a laptop, a rose in vitro, and a picture of Chihiro Fujisaki, smiling happily.

Kyoko went to the bathroom. She looked in the mirror and saw her wide eyes and shivering body. That wouldn't do. She took a deep breath and pressed her hands into her face, molding it into what it needed to be. By the time she was done, a blank expression stared back at her through the mirror.

Good, back under control.

Kyoko got dressed in her white blouse, dark jacket, and dull purple skirt. Just as she was about to leave…

Ding, dong!

A feminine robotic voice echoed throughout the room. "Bell rung by: Byakuya Togami."

He must have what I asked for. Kyoko opened the door for Byakuya. He held out a folder. "Your report."

Kyoko took the files. "Good work."

Byakuya clicked his tongue. "I'm just an errand boy here. No need to praise me for such a menial task."

Kyoko shrugged. "If you say so." She placed the folder on her desk. As she did, Byakuya's eyes wandered to the picture it hosted.

"Chihiro Fujisaki?" Byakuya remarked. "Why do you have a picture of him here?"

Kyoko raised an eyebrow. "Is it so strange to memorialize our fallen friends?"

Byakuya held his chin. "I suppose not, but why him, specifically? I don't recall the two of you being particularly close."

Kyoko folded her arms and turned to look at him sideways. "I don't need to explain that to you."

Byakuya sighed. "Still as secretive as ever. Fine, be that way. See you at breakfast."

He turned and left. Meanwhile, Kyoko skimmed through the report. Some tentatively good news for once. The mission to take back the territory that included Makoto's former residence had been successful. The investigation into the kidnapping and whereabouts of Makoto's family would begin shortly. For Makoto's sake, Kyoko hoped it would go well, but she knew there was a high chance that they were already dead. Still, they had to face the truth, good or bad.

Once Kyoko was satisfied, she left her room.

Kyoko walked through the hall, passing by several other members of the Future Foundation as they went about their business. She entered the mess hall and headed to the pantry. Kyoko poured herself a simple bowl of cereal and sat down at a table.

As she started to eat, Aoi Asahina sat across from her and smiled. "Morning, Kirigiri-chan."

"Morning," Kyoko said quietly. She cleared her throat. "I trust you are well?"

"Great!" Hina said. "What about you? You're here early today. Sleep well?"

"Yes, quite," Kyoko answered, betraying nothing.

"That's good!" Hina said sweetly. "I'm so glad this joint operation brought us all together again! Calls are nice, but nothing beats seeing you in person!"

Kyoko smiled. "Public relations and food distribution do go hand-in-hand."

"Right?" Hina said. "If you wanna get me on your side, you better bring me some donuts!"

Kyoko chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind."

The others began to arrive. Yasuhiro Hagakure, Byakuya Togami, and Toko Fukawa joined them at the table. All things considered, they were in good spirits, but Kyoko suppressed a wince at the sight of the shock collar around Toko's neck, a precaution against her other personality.

"Another day in paradise," Hiro said.

"Please," Byakuya grumbled. "Would the Remnants of Despair just die already?"

"We are making progress," Hina said. "Attacks have gone down in the past year, now that Enoshima's dead."

"It's not enough," Kyoko said. "We can't rest until it's over."

She sighed, silently cursing this cruel world. They had survived the Killing Game, only to be thrust into a war with Enoshima's followers. Not that Kyoko had ever been destined for a peaceful life. Even before The Tragedy, Kyoko had seen far more than her share of death. Kyoko would always take pride in her work, despite all the hardship. Still, the constant threat of despair was taking its toll on her. Would Kyoko live long enough to see hope restored?

Kyoko vaguely heard the others chatting, but she was lost in her thoughts. Until…

"Here, maybe this will help."

Kyoko smelled a pleasant aroma. She turned and saw Makoto offering her a cup of coffee. "Oh? For me?" Kyoko smiled warmly and took the cup. "Thank you, Naegi."

"I also got you these." Makoto handed her a pack of chocolates.

Kyoko's eyes lit up. "How thoughtful." Her cheeks turned pink. She was touched that Makoto had remembered her habit of taking chocolate with her coffee whenever she needed an extra boost of energy. She popped one of the chocolates in her mouth, sipped the coffee, and rolled the chocolate around. The combination of sweetness and bitterness was exquisite and perked Kyoko up.

… wait, but if Makoto had brought her coffee and chocolate, did he know that she hadn't rested well? How could he tell? She hadn't shown any signs, had she?

Her anxious thoughts were interrupted as she noticed another pleasing scent. It was coming from Makoto. She sniffed. "Are you wearing cologne, Naegi?"

Makoto held the back of his head in embarrassment. "Oh, you noticed."

It really smelled nice. Kyoko wondered what had motivated him to wear it. "Hot date lined up?" Kyoko asked with a smirk.

Makoto blushed and met her eyes bashfully. "Well, that depends if she's interested…"

Kyoko rested her chin on her gloved hand. "Oh, so you are trying to impress someone? I wonder who that could be?" She pursed her lips. Seriously, who could it be? And why did Kyoko care so much? Whoever Makoto wanted to date was his own business. Kyoko tossed another piece of chocolate into her mouth and sipped her coffee.

"U-uh," Makoto stammered. "Well, it's someone, uh, very close to me? Like, right now? Like, literally close to me?"

Kyoko blinked. "Literally?" She glanced at Hina. "Are you… asking Hina out?"

The table fell silent. Everyone stared at Kyoko as if she had a cup of ramen on her head.

"… girl," Hina said. "Tell me you're joking."

Kyoko's face scrunched up in confusion. "Sorry, did I offend you?"

Hiro sighed. "Naegi's obviously trying to ask you out."

… what?

Naegi is interested in… me?

No, no. That couldn't be true. Kyoko shook her head. "Surely, you are mistaken. I don't know who Naegi-kun is pining for, but I guarantee it's not me."

"Aww, why not?" Hina pressed.

"B-because," Kyoko said, "it would be… inappropriate."

"Oh, because you're coworkers?" Hina asked. "Come on, we don't care about that. We may be working with the Future Foundation, but the six of us are still just a group of friends, right?"

"Yes, friends," Kyoko said.

Toko flashed a creepy smile. "Oh, so you're friends with benefits, is that it?!"

"NO!" Kyoko and Makoto both shouted.

Toko pointed her finger at Kyoko. "Well, there's no way you two are just friends! If that's true, then why is Naegi treating you so differently? Where's my coffee, huh? I don't see him brewing me a coffee!"

Byakuya snickered. "She raises a good point. Naegi certainly gives Kirigiri special attention."

Makoto looked away in embarrassment. "Well, that's…"

Kyoko felt a pit in her stomach. Makoto… didn't actually have feelings for her, did he? No, that was impossible. Being friendly with her was one thing, but how could he…?

Byakuya's gaze fixed in Makoto's direction. "Why don't we ask him about this? Well, Naegi? Do you like Kirigiri?"

Makoto's face reddened. "Why am I on trial here?"

Byakuya grinned. "He won't admit it, but he won't deny it, either."

Kyoko furrowed her brow. She couldn't allow these problematic fantasies to continue. "I assure you that's impossible," Kyoko said. "Naegi-kun can't possibly have any romantic interest in me."

"Oh? What makes you say that?" Byakuya asked. "Is there a reason why Naegi wouldn't like you? He seems pretty interested to me. Just look how red his face is."

"It's not possible," Kyoko said. "Because, I…"

She frowned. She knew exactly what the answer was, but it wasn't something she could bring herself to tell them.

"Look, I just don't feel that way about him, okay? I don't and I never will."

That wasn't exactly true. No, it was a total lie. Makoto was a wonderful person, the kind Kyoko would have loved to be with, but there was one problem. Two problems, really. Three problems? Regardless, it wasn't an option, no matter how much Kyoko wanted it to be.

Hina looked at Kyoko with sad eyes, but Hina's face gradually twisted until she was glowering at her. "Kirigiri-san, I don't believe you!"

Kyoko glared back at Hina. "On what grounds?"

"It's obvious!" Hina shouted. "You're always happier with Naegi than anyone else! When you're with Naegi, you smile more! You talk more! And I've even caught you blushing in his presence! We all saw it just moments ago! You were positively glowing! And that's saying something by your standards!"

"Right," Kyoko spat. "Since I'm so damn cold, even the slightest hint of emotion must mean I'm in love, is that it?!"

"Whoa!" Hiro exclaimed. "Let's all just chill, okay?!"

Toko giggled. "This is getting interesting…"

"I…" Hina grinded her teeth. "Sorry, that last part was out of line, but I still don't believe you!"

Kyoko growled. "This is absurd. Naegi-kun, would you please put these rumors to…"

Her heart stopped when she saw Makoto's face. His hazel eyes glistened with tears as he looked back at her. Did Makoto really…?

"Kiri," Makoto said quietly. "Are you really so… opposed to the idea?"

Kyoko's eyes widened in horror.

He did.

After a long silence, Makoto lowered his head dejectedly. "I see. Well, that's fine."

Kyoko's heart pounded in her chest. Naegi actually…? How do I…? What do I…?

She grimaced as if a dagger had pierced her heart. Her body shivered uncontrollably, and she felt sick to her stomach. Was this some kind of twisted joke? She couldn't accept this. She could never accept this. She took her coffee and stood up. "I should get going. I have work to do."

Hina reached out to her. "K-Kirigiri, wait! Let's talk about this some –"

"We're done here," Kyoko said curtly. "Goodbye."

She wasted no more time making her exit.

Despair. That was all Makoto felt.

Well, he had been through worse, much worse, but still. To be rejected so thoroughly… Makoto had truly thought that Kyoko and him could be something more, but if she didn't feel the same way, what could he do? If she just wanted to be friends, he had to accept that.

At least, Makoto hoped they were still friends. Even if they couldn't be more than that, Makoto didn't want to ruin their friendship. It would have left such a hole in his heart if Kyoko didn't even want to see him again. Had Makoto messed up?

As Makoto rested his head on the table, Hina pat him on the shoulder. "Poor Naegi. I don't know what went wrong."

Makoto sighed. "Thanks, Hina. I just hope Kiri can forget about this."

"Hey, it's okay," Hiro said. "Still plenty of fish out there, even with the whole apocalypse thing going on. I'm sure you'll find someone else."

"I don't get it, though," Hina said. "I thought for sure that Kirigiri was crushing on him. Why did she shut him down like that? It's so weird."

Byakuya brushed a hand against his chin. "Something does feel strange." He looked at Toko. "Hey, romance expert, what do you think?"

"Y-you're asking me?" Toko said. "I w-would love to help you, Master, but just because I write romance novels doesn't mean I know a thing about real love. Those are all just delusions."

"Come on," Hina said. "You must have some idea."

Toko nervously pressed her fingers together. "Well, if this were one of my books, Kirigiri would definitely be hiding something, which is pretty in-character for her come to think of it. I can't say for sure, but there could be a deeper meaning behind it than just unrequited love."

Byakuya hummed. "In-character, huh? Are you sure about that?"

"Huh? What do you mean?" Hina asked.

"Just before," Byakuya said, "Kirigiri did something completely out of character."

"Really? What was it?" Hiro asked.

"Yes, whatever could it be…?"

Byakuya shot Makoto a snide grin.

Makoto knew that look.

Oh, don't you dare…

"Tell them, Naegi."

Makoto slammed his hands against the table. "Why do I always have to explain?! I have no idea what you're talking about!"

"Such ignorance," Byakuya chided. "If you really like Kirigiri, you should be able to figure this out."

Makoto grunted as if he had been punched in the gut. Byakuya had a point. If he cared about Kyoko, he should have known if something was off, but what was it? If he thought back to the beginning…

"Well," Makoto said, "I did notice that she seemed down this morning."

"Maybe so," Byakuya said, "but not what I was getting at."

"Was it her breakfast?" Hiro asked. "Nothing but a crummy bowl of cereal? That's gotta mean something!"

Byakuya sighed painfully. "Your braincells die lonely deaths. Cereal is a perfectly normal breakfast for Kirigiri."

Makoto thought harder. What had Kyoko done that was out of character? She always acted so calm, but…

I've got it!

"You're talking about the way she reacted, right?" Makoto asked.

Byakuya smiled. "I knew you could do it. Yes, it's the way Kirigiri reacted when she realized Naegi likes her."

"Her reaction?" Hiro asked. "What about it? Seemed normal to me, all things considered."

"I mean, I still think she was totally lying," Hina said. "But assuming she wasn't, is there really anything strange about it? Don't you think it's normal to react strongly when rejecting a close friend?"

"For normal girls, maybe," Byakuya said. "But this is Kirigiri we're talking about. If this were a simple case of unrequited love, she wouldn't have gotten so emotional. Did you see the look of sheer terror on her face? Did you notice how quick she was to flee? Why do think that is? Does she find Naegi that repulsive? It would take much more than that to crack through her mask."

"Hmm, I guess it is unlike her to run from her problems," Hina said. "Then again, she does have an immature side. It wouldn't be the first time she's avoided Naegi. Remember that time she wouldn't eat breakfast in the same room as him?"

"Don't remind me," Makoto groused.

Byakuya chuckled. "I think that's all the more evidence that she's into him. If she didn't have feelings for him, why would she have reacted so strongly to Naegi keeping secrets from her? If it had been anyone but Naegi, Kirigiri would have just shrugged it off and ignored it. Positive or negative, Naegi has a way of exposing Kirigiri's emotions."

Huh, Makoto had never thought of it that way. Was Byakuya right? Did Kyoko really…?

Oh, what am I thinking? Kirigiri made her position clear. We have to let this go. Makoto gave an awkward smile. "Uh, guys? It's nice that you're trying to help me, but you don't have to do this. I'm sure Kiri just isn't interested. There doesn't need to be an explanation. It is what it is."

Byakuya adjusted his glasses. "That may be true in most cases, but I don't think this is one of them."

Makoto blinked. "Huh? What?"

Byakuya crossed his arms. "It's just a theory, but I think Fukawa's right. There's more going on here. Kirigiri is hiding something."

Toko moaned blissfully. "Master praised me! Ah…"

"Tell you what," Byakuya said. "Let me talk to Kirigiri. I'll find out what's going on."

Makoto's mouth opened in terror. Byakuya wanted to talk to Kyoko? "What? Why would you do that?"

"Don't worry your pathetic mind about that," Byakuya said. "My goals are beyond your understanding."

Makoto frantically shook his head and waved his hands. "No, bad idea! Bad! Awful! Don't like it!"

Byakuya laughed. "What are you worried about? Rejoice, Naegi. This is your lucky day. Our interests are aligned."

"What does that mean?!" Makoto demanded. "Why are you so interested in our relationship?!"

Byakuya scoffed. "Stop talking." He stood up. "In the name of my family, I shall elucidate the mysteries of Kyoko Kirigiri. Just you wait. You'll thank me later."

Byakuya walked away, leaving behind a bewildered Makoto.

"What's going on?" Makoto wondered. "Why is he so fired up about this?"

Hina shrugged. "Who knows?"

"I can't see anything good coming of it," Makoto said. "He and Kiri aren't exactly on the best of terms. I don't want anyone harassing Kiri over this, let alone him." Makoto held his head. "Man, I knew I should have kept things professional."

"Hey, can't fault you for taking your shot," Hiro said. "Especially since we kinda pushed you into it. Sorry about that."

"It's okay," Makoto said. "I've been working up the courage to tell her how I feel for a while now. At least I got my answer." He sighed. "Nothing to do now but respect her decision, and pray Togami doesn't do anything weird."

Kyoko learned over the ship's railing, staring into the open sea. She felt the ocean breeze blow across her face; her lavender hair flapped in the wind. She looked at the coffee still in her hands, the coffee that Makoto had made for her. How symbolic. She wanted to get away, yet she couldn't let go. Her contradictory emotions filled her with agony.

Damn you, Naegi. After what Kyoko had done to him, how could he look at her like that? Any sane person would hate her to pieces, but did Makoto have a hateful bone in his body? Kyoko couldn't understand, and she had no idea how to respond to Makoto's feelings. Part of her wanted to embrace it, but the thought of giving into that impulse terrified her, because it would have been so wrong. Even if Makoto forgave her, she couldn't accept it. There had to be consequences for what she had done.

And even ignoring that, could Kyoko really go that far with him? She knew from experience how dangerous getting too close to someone was. Romance was a luxury she couldn't afford. As a Kirigiri detective, she had to put her work first, especially in this world of despair.

But, when she thought of Makoto, she felt so much warmth in her heart. Her endorphins spiked whenever Makoto made her laugh, and the incessant whispering of her anxieties seemed to disappear. Spending time with Makoto always filled Kyoko with joy. If they could be even closer, if Makoto could always be part of Kyoko's life, then…

Yui-oneesama…

What would you think?

Can I give my heart to Naegi, as I did for you?

What will happen if I do?

Will it end up like last time, or…?

Will it be different?

Does it need to be different?

Do I regret meeting you, Yui-oneesama?

The time we spent together…

The path we traveled together…

Was it all worth it, despite the end?

As Kyoko finished the coffee, she heard footsteps behind her.

"There you are. Working hard, are we?"

Not a voice she had expected to hear. Kyoko turned and scowled at him. "What do you want?" she hissed.

Byakuya snickered. "Don't sound so pleased to see me."

Kyoko folded her arms. "I don't like repeating myself. State your business or get lost."

"Fine, I'll get to the point," Byakuya said. "Naturally, it's about this morning."

Kyoko waved her hand dismissively. "What's it to you?"

"We'll get to that," Byakuya said. "First, I want the truth. What is the real reason you turned Naegi down?"

What the fuck? What does he care? Kyoko grit her teeth. "Was I not clear? I'm simply not interested, and that's my business. Don't harass me over this."

"Is that so?" Byakuya asked. "Somehow, I don't buy it."

Kyoko scoffed. "Whatever. I'm not responsible for your baseless conjecture."

"Oh, I assure you it's quite based," Byakuya said. "Now, I don't presume to know everything that's going on in your head. There could be a multitude of reasons why you are avoiding Naegi, but I believe I know at least one, a bitter regret that you can't let go of."

Kyoko huffed irately. What was this obnoxious prick playing at? Another word and Kyoko would throw him overboard. I swear, if he doesn't…

"You're still guilty over Ikusaba's trial, aren't you?"

Kyoko's heart froze. What? How did he…? No, she couldn't let him win this easily. She immediately regained her composure. "Interesting theory," she said.

Byakuya grinned. "A theory, with compelling evidence. If we assume that what I've said is correct, it explains what I saw in your room."

Kyoko's stomach sank, but she hid that fear behind an ice-cold glare. "And what would that be?"

"You know exactly what I mean," Byakuya said. "The picture of Chihiro Fujisaki. You keep that photo of him close because he's the one who saved your precious Naegi-kun. If it weren't for him, Naegi would have been pounded into a sandwich. That's why Fujisaki is special to you."

Kyoko furrowed her brow. "You can't say that for sure. There could be some other reason you are not aware of."

Byakuya clicked his tongue. "Stubborn, are we? Fine, here's something you can't possibly refute. You initially claimed that it's 'impossible' for Naegi to love you. Ergo, there's a reason why he can't love you, not the other way around. And what better reason for that than the time you almost killed him? Your guilt couldn't be more obvious."

Kyoko paused. She couldn't find a fault in Byakuya's logic. She sighed in defeat. "It seems that I've gotten sloppy." She turned her head to the side. "But it's still none of your business."

Byakuya shrugged. "You're right. Your relationship with Naegi is none of my business. However, I just felt inclined to say that… you are not the only one with regrets from that day."

Kyoko eyed him curiously. "Regrets? You?"

For once, Byakuya wiped that smug smile off his face. Instead, he looked at Kyoko with a pensive frown. "I let Naegi down too, you know. I'm the one who suggested that Naegi could have planted the locker key in your room, but that shouldn't have been possible. I had accompanied Naegi to your room specifically to make sure he couldn't do anything like that. I had watched him closely the whole time. Yet in the absence of any alternatives, I not only doubted Naegi, but my own judgment. I declared him to be guilty, even though I knew it wasn't true."

Byakuya growled and clenched his fist. "Even if it were possible, it wouldn't make any logical sense. Naegi knew that you had no access to your room, so why would he even try to frame you by placing evidence in an area you couldn't reach? It was ridiculous. Really, the only person who possibly could have done it is the mastermind. I'm so ashamed that I fell for that bitch's trap."

Kyoko could feel the regret radiating from Byakuya's firmly shut eyes. He really meant it. Perhaps Kyoko wasn't the only one choked up over that trial.

"Wait," Kyoko said. "Don't you know?"

"Know?" Byakuya asked. "What should I know?"

"About the key," Kyoko explained. "It's common knowledge thanks to the broadcast."

Byakuya grunted. "Key? What key?"

Kyoko blinked. "Seriously? You never inquired about the broadcast?"

"Why would I?" Byakuya asked. "I lived through it. I know all about it."

Kyoko shook her head. "Clearly not everything."

Byakuya huffed. "Well, what is it?"

"Come to think of it," Kyoko said, "we never told you, did we? It's true that I hadn't entered my room since giving you my room key, but there was a way I could have."

Byakuya's eyes opened wide in surprise. "What?!"

"It's the reason why I disappeared," Kyoko said. "A short while ago, I had stolen a special key from the headmaster's office, the Monokuma Key. This key could open any door in the school. I had used it to access the second floor of the dormitory. That's where I was during the investigation."

"I… I see," Byakuya said. "Did Naegi know about this?"

Kyoko nodded. "I had told him before the trial."

"Oh, so that's what you were discussing." Byakuya chuckled. "No wonder you feel like shit."

Kyoko frowned. "Yes, Naegi could have saved himself by revealing my secret, but he chose not to. He protected me, at risk to his own life, and I refused to do the same for him."

Byakuya hummed. "Hindsight is twenty-twenty, but would that key really have proven anything? If you were the killer, and you had used the key to access your room, why the hell would you have told Naegi about it? There's no reason you would have given him that rope to hang yourself with. The only explanation is that you had no idea the locker key was there."

Kyoko laughed bitterly. "I hadn't even thought that far. I think if Naegi had chosen to present the key, I would have given up."

"Perhaps," Byakuya admitted. "In the heat of the moment, I probably wouldn't have thought of it, either." He growled again. "If only that bitch had given us more time."

Kyoko lowered her head penitently. "Exposing the mastermind would have been the ideal outcome, of course. I wanted to save Naegi, but not as much as I needed to save myself. There is no escaping the fact that I essentially tried to kill him for my own agenda."

"… but that's only natural," Byakuya said.

Kyoko blinked. "What do you mean?"

Byakuya stared intensely at her. "When you said that without you, the secrets of the school never would have been uncovered, did you mean that?"

Kyoko paused. "I… that was my genuine belief, yes, but looking back, I can't be sure if I was right."

Byakuya's shit-eating grin returned. "Regardless, that was your honest assessment. You had to survive to uncover the school's mystery, and by extension, destroy the mastermind. In other words, you had the best chance of victory."

Kyoko pursed her lips. "That is what I thought, but…"

"Then you did what you had to," Byakuya said. "Sacrifice yourself, and let a mass murderer walk free, or sacrifice Naegi, and still have a chance. Tough choice. Whatever will you -"

Kyoko's fist slammed into Byakuya's nose.

The strike did not go unnoticed by onlookers.

"… what? A fight?"

"… oh, it's Kirigiri and Togami. Why am I not surprised?"

"… get him, Kiri."

Byakuya recoiled from the blow. He held his bloody nose, and he laughed. "You're stronger than you look."

With misty eyes, Kyoko held up a trembling fist. "That… that's not the point! It doesn't matter what the logical choice was! It doesn't matter what my reasons were! I betrayed him! I refused to help him when he needed me most! That's not what friends do! Friends protect each other no matter what! That's why I… I can never…"

A tear trickled down Kyoko's cheek.

"… is that your resolve?" Byakuya asked. "Has that lesson been burned into your heart?"

Kyoko sniffled. "Wh-what?"

Byakuya pointed at her. "If you really mean what you said, then you've changed. You aren't the person you were before. The Kirigiri I knew would never let emotion cloud her judgment, but you've chosen to walk a different path. If that's your choice, hold your head high and look forward!"

I've… changed? Kyoko looked at the gloves that covered her scarred hands. That day, her attachment to someone had caused her to make a grave mistake, but later on, her refusal to follow her heart had caused her just as much pain. No, it was worse. She hadn't only scarred her own hands; she had hurt someone else just as she had been hurt.

Even if Makoto tried to put on a brave face, Kyoko knew that she had hurt him.

Kyoko still believed that love caused people to make foolish decisions, but she also believed that if one didn't take risks, one could never move forward. Love was dangerous, but when she denied her feelings, she was missing out on so much that made life worth living. If she wasn't happy, then what was the point? Was it not rational to pursue happiness? Even if something unfortunate happened, maybe attachments weren't always something to be avoided.

The rational detective, and human being inside her, those were two things she needed to reconcile. Too much of either would destroy her. It wouldn't always be easy, but Kyoko had to do her best to balance the two.

Kyoko closed her tear-stained eyes. "But that's easier said than done. If I were faced with that choice again, can I really trust myself to choose differently? Even though I know it's wrong, I fear that I might do it all over again. That's just the type of person I am. Cold, calculated, willing to sacrifice a friend for the sake of the truth. It's who I've always been."

"Well," Byakuya said, "maybe you won't have to make that choice again."

Kyoko frowned. A part of her did want to be tested. She wanted another chance to make that choice, and to prove that she wouldn't betray a friend again. Or at least, a chance to prove that she wouldn't betray Makoto again. Until she was faced with that decision once more, how could she ever say for certain that she had changed?

"To be more precise," Byakuya continued, "let me ask you a question. How has your opinion of Naegi changed since the Killing Game?"

Kyoko's lips parted. "I… I had sorely underestimated him. Early on, I had sensed potential in him. He was strong, the type of person able to press on even after suffering betrayal by a dear friend. However, he didn't have the knowledge or experience that I possessed, so I valued my own life over his. It wasn't until later that I've come to see that as a mistake. I believe even if I had been the one to die, Naegi and the rest of you would have been fine without me."

Byakuya breathed deeply. "I think that you and I had to learn the same lesson. I had also thought myself better than the rest of you, but the Killing Game forced me to accept that others can – and must – be relied on. That's what I mean when I say you won't have to make that choice again, because you no longer see your own life as more important than Naegi's. You know that his strength can be trusted."

Kyoko wiped away her tears. "Yes, I suppose we both had to let go of some pride." She managed to crack a slight smile. "You know, I'm surprised to see you've developed such a sensitive side, Togami. Maybe you've changed as well."

Byakuya looked to the side. "Don't get the wrong idea. I'm only angry that I allowed Enoshima to make a fool of me. I wasn't trying to comfort you."

"Hmph, be honest," Kyoko said. "You wanted to cheer me up for Naegi's sake, didn't you? Because you owe him."

Byakuya grunted. "Well, a Togami always pays their debts. I… I am the one who should have saved him that day, but I wasn't strong enough."

"How sweet of you to say." Kyoko crossed her arms and smirked. "Perhaps we're not so different. You act like you don't care, but deep down you're just a big softie, aren't you?"

Byakuya scoffed. "Tch, don't push this. I've said what I want to say; now you can do whatever. Hook up with Naegi, don't hook up with Naegi, I don't care."

He turned to walk away, but he stopped. "Well, one more thing. If you really have feelings for Naegi, don't let guilt hold you back. After everything you've been through, you… deserve some happiness. That is all."

Byakuya left, leaving Kyoko behind to ponder what he had said. Don't let guilt hold me back, huh? Maybe he was right. In that moment, Kyoko wanted nothing more than to see Makoto.

Not that her wounds had completely healed. She was still far from at peace with what had happened. It was going to hurt, but now she wanted to push through that pain. She was done running away. Kyoko didn't know what to expect, but maybe if she just talked with Makoto, they could…

Kyoko wasn't sure, but she had to find out.

It was midnight. Makoto was alone in his room. He paced back and forth. As much as he tried not to, he couldn't stop thinking about Kyoko. He was so heartbroken that Kyoko had turned him down, but he knew he had to accept it. If only it were so easy.

It was probably for the best. In his heart, Makoto knew that he wasn't worthy of Kyoko. He knew Kyoko could do better than a painfully average guy like him. She was so intelligent, so skilled, so strong, so beautiful… how could Makoto possibly compare? It was no wonder that Kyoko had rejected him. Kyoko would certainly find someone better suited for her.

… or would she? Kyoko had said that getting too close to people was dangerous. Maybe she just wasn't interested in romance at all? Or maybe she was afraid to love someone again? Makoto still didn't know the story behind Kyoko's burned hands, but Makoto assumed that whoever Kyoko had gotten 'too close' to wasn't around anymore.

But what exactly had happened? Had Kyoko's friend betrayed her? Or did Kyoko blame herself for her friend's death? Just what was the 'mistake' that Kyoko had made? Putting her trust in the wrong person? Trusting herself to protect who she loved? Or was she just afraid to suffer the heartbreak of loss all over again? All of these possibilities were equally tragic.

Oh, Kiri…

Still dressed in his suit, Makoto fell backwards onto his bed. He feared he would have trouble falling asleep that night. With a sigh, he closed his eyes…

Ding, dong!

Makoto sat up. What? Why was someone at his door at this hour? It was nighttime; everyone had agreed to stay in their rooms past 10 PM so they wouldn't...

Oh, right. They weren't in Hope's Peak anymore, but still. What did someone want with him so late at night?

"Bell rung by: Kyoko Kirigiri."

Makoto gasped. Kiri? He went to the door and opened it, and sure enough, Kyoko was standing outside. Kyoko looked at him with a blank expression. "We need to talk."

A knot twisted in Makoto's stomach. We. Need. To. Talk. Four words that could strike terror into the heart of any man. He could only assume one thing that this was about.

"K-Kirigiri!" Makoto stammered. "Oh, God! Whatever Togami did, I'm sorry! I swear I didn't put him up to it! I told him to leave you alone, but he wouldn't listen!" He bowed and clasped his hands together. "Please forgive me! I'll never bother you again!"

Kyoko rolled her eyes. "Calm down, you're not in trouble." She forcefully stepped past Makoto and let herself into his room. Makoto frowned in confusion. If it wasn't about that, then what else could it be?

Kyoko gave him a firm stare. "First, I need to confirm something beyond a shadow of a doubt. Naegi, do you have feelings for me?"

Makoto's jaw dropped. The sudden and direct question stunned him greatly. It took him a moment to process what Kyoko had asked him. He took a shaky breath. "U-uh, I, umm… I… I do like you, but I thought you didn't feel the same?"

Kyoko frowned. "I… wasn't being entirely honest. When I realized how you felt about me, I was… scared."

Makoto tilted his head. "Scared? What do you mean?"

Kyoko inhaled sharply and closed her eyes. "It's not that I don't like you, Naegi. I consider you a treasured friend, but there's something I can't get out of my head." She exhaled slowly. "The truth is, I still haven't forgiven myself for what I did to you."

Makoto blinked. What she had done to him? "Umm, what are you talking about?"

"Do you really need me to tell you?" Kyoko asked. "Ikusaba's trial."

Makoto shuddered. "You're still worried about… that?"

Kyoko nodded. "That day, I deliberately tried to get you killed to save myself. The guilt of my decision hasn't gone away, but even so, you just keep getting closer to me. And the closer we get, the more it hurts." Her sorrowful purple eyes drifted to the side. "If I were to fall in love with you, I would feel that much more guilty that I was willing to sacrifice you."

Makoto's chest tightened. Of all the possibilities he had considered, this one hadn't even crossed his mind. He'd had no idea that Kyoko was still hurting so much from that incident. His first instinct was to rationalize her actions, but on second thought, he knew that Kyoko didn't want to hear him make excuses for her. There was really only one thing he could say.

"Kiri," Makoto whispered, "you know I forgive you, right? I don't think it's something that even needs to be forgiven. Everything that happened was all Enoshima's fault, not yours, but since I know you don't see it that way, I forgive you."

"I know you do," Kyoko said. "And I appreciate that you're not trying to run from the truth, but it's not so easy for me to forgive myself. There is no excuse for what I did to you."

Kyoko lowered her head, and Makoto saw a tear flow out of Kyoko's eye. He winced at the sight. For someone like Kyoko to openly cry, he couldn't imagine the pain she felt.

Kyoko looked back up to face him. "There is something I've been wanting to ask you about that time. Why did you do it? Was it for me? Or was it because you believed I was better suited to put an end to the Killing Game?"

Makoto held his chin as he considered his answer. "Umm, both, I suppose? When you said that voting you the killer would be a mistake, I believed you. If you couldn't let it happen, I couldn't let it happen, no matter the risk."

"But how could you trust me?" Kyoko asked. "And please don't say something like 'because we're friends.' I won't accept such a naïve answer, even from you. I was not your friend at that trial."

"I did believe in you," Makoto said. "You once said that the worst thing we can do is lose all faith in each other, and I agree. I wasn't going to give up on you."

"But I also said that having total faith in everyone is just as disastrous. What had I done to earn your trust?"

"If you insist on a reason," Makoto said, "I'd say it's because you had faith in me."

Kyoko blinked. "What do you…?"

"You shared your secret with me," Makoto explained. "You didn't have to tell me that the Monokuma Key was a skeleton key, but you did. You trusted me with that information, and I knew how difficult that was for you. I didn't want to betray your trust in me, so I kept it quiet."

Kyoko clenched her teeth. "At that time, I was hoping we could still work together, but everyone else had unbreakable alibies. It was you or me. You were the last person I wanted to betray, but that didn't stop me."

Makoto shook his head. "No, you didn't betray me. Maybe you 'abandoned' me, but 'betrayed' is an overstatement. I wanted to help you defeat the mastermind, and… I wanted to protect you."

Kyoko bit her lip. "Are you saying it's okay because you were expendable?"

"I…" Makoto cringed. "Sorry, I knew you didn't want to hear excuses, but I couldn't help it. I just want you to understand why I forgive you, and why I want you to forgive yourself. Even if you had abandoned me, I still wanted to save you."

"I don't understand," Kyoko breathed. "Was I really that important to you? Even then? Or are you just that selfless?"

"Umm…" Makoto pursed his lips. "That's a tough one. I might have done the same for any of my friends, but… yeah, I think you were special. The thought of losing you hurt me more than anything else. I couldn't let it happen."

Kyoko fell into a silence. Her head turned to avoid Makoto's gaze. Another tear trickled down her cheek.

"Am I still 'special' to you?" Kyoko asked.

Makoto nodded. "You are."

Kyoko's gloved hands tightened into fists. "Why? Even if you forgive me, don't you think that's taking it too far? Do you not feel even a little hatred towards me?"

Makoto's face darkened into a grimace. He didn't know how much more of this he could take. What could he say to convince Kyoko to let go of this? "Why should I hate you? What were you supposed to do, Kiri? Were you supposed to just lay down and let everyone think you were the killer? I understand why you had to survive, and I know that if you had any better idea that would save both of us, you would have done it."

"But you refused to fight back," Kyoko said. "I couldn't believe it when you deliberately ignored the hole in my argument. You were willing to sacrifice yourself for me, yet I still did nothing."

Suddenly, a fire lit up in Makoto's chest. "Hold on, you have one thing wrong. Yes, I knew I was taking a risk, but I never intended to sacrifice myself."

Kyoko stared at him dumbfounded. "Naegi, you really thought…?"

"Of course you weren't going to die for me," Makoto said. "I wasn't trying to die for you, either! Sacrificing yourself to save someone, maybe that can bring hope, but it's also despair! There was only one outcome I was going to accept! The truth! The real truth! I wasn't going to let either of us die! I wanted us both to survive! I wasn't going to settle for anything less!"

"You…" Kyoko shook her head. "Well, you know how that turned out. I knew that wasn't a realistic outcome. The fact is, you protected me, and I did nothing to protect you."

"No! That's wrong!"

Kyoko scowled at him. "Wrong? What do you mean that's wrong?!"

"But you did do something," Makoto said. "Even if it didn't matter, you at least tried to save me. When Enoshima called time, you objected! You wanted to keep the trial going! If all you cared about was surviving, then why would you have done that? There's only one explanation; you wanted to save both of us, too!"

"I…" Kyoko sniffled. "Of course I didn't want you to die, Naegi. You were my friend! You trusted me! I hated every moment of that trial, and I hated that I was willing to kill you to survive. But that's the truth. I did try to kill you, and I practically succeeded. You have to accept that."

They fell back into silence.

Is it the truth, though? Despite what Kyoko had said, Makoto wasn't sure if he believed her. Had Kyoko really intended to let him die? She had never outright accused him of the murder; she had only cast reasonable doubt on his alibi so she wouldn't be cornered as the only suspect, her accusation against the mastermind notwithstanding. And, she couldn't have predicted that Enoshima would suddenly make up a time limit. If it hadn't been for that, maybe they could have cast enough suspicion on the mastermind herself. Maybe they could have won, but Enoshima had cheated. As far as Makoto was concerned, everything was Enoshima's fault and Enoshima's alone.

Yet, Kyoko clearly insisted that she had abandoned Makoto. Could Makoto really deny it? Was he hiding from the truth? Or was Kyoko the one deluding herself?

Makoto decided that it didn't matter. Because…

"I don't care," Makoto said. "It doesn't change how I feel. Even as Monokuma carried me away, even when I thought I was about to die, I didn't regret defending you."

Makoto felt a salty sensation sting his eyes. "Some nights, I dream about it. Sometimes, it's just like before. I'm tied to that chair, unable to do anything but wait as the sounds get closer. But sometimes, it isn't me; it's you. I see the terror in your eyes, your face turning pale just as mine had. I try to reach out and catch you, but you keep getting farther, until the crusher comes down and…"

A tear ran down his cheek. Great, now he was crying, too.

"The only thing I regret," Makoto said, "is that we were forced into that situation in the first place. Forcing us to choose which of us lived, that wasn't a fair choice. I wish it had never happened."

Their teary eyes met each other.

"… I truly am sorry," Kyoko said. "You were so kind to me, and you deserved better from me. I wish I could go back and handle things differently. I made the wrong decision that day."

Makoto sobbed. "Why are you acting like you're the 'wrong' choice? It's not like you're some heartless monster. I know you cared about me, and that's enough. I can't expect you to die for me." His voice cracked. "K-Kiri, please. I can't take seeing you like this anymore. Just forget about this, okay? Leave the past behind. We're alive; that's all that matters."

Her eyes half-closed, Kyoko placed a hand over her chest. "I'm trying, Naegi. I really am. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think I could overcome this. I… I don't want to give up on these feelings we have for each other."

Makoto stared at her with his mouth agape. 'K-Kiri, you mean…?"

A blush started to form in Kyoko's cheeks. "If you really want to be with me, despite everything, I might be willing to give it a try. I can't say that I've truly changed, but I've learned an important lesson since then."

"A… lesson?" Makoto asked.

"I was wrong," Kyoko said quietly. "The choice I made back then, the very basis of my reasoning was incorrect." Kyoko stepped closer to him. "Naegi, the more I've gotten to know you, the more I've realized how incredible you are. I had this arrogant delusion that only I could solve the problem, but that wasn't true. Your optimism, determination, and unwavering hope make you strong in ways that I am not. Your value to the world isn't something I should have treated so lightly." Kyoko took his hands into hers. "I once told you that I trust you 'to a point,' but now, I trust you completely, with all my heart."

Makoto's heart pounded as the two of them gazed into each other's eyes. Kyoko stared at him with an intense, bittersweet sensation of longing. Kyoko's face flushed deeply, and Makoto felt his own face grow hot. He fumbled for words. "I… I think a lot of my strength comes from you."

Kyoko moved her hands to Makoto's shoulders. "And you've become my hope," she whispered.

Without thinking, Makoto wrapped his arms around Kyoko's waist. "Kiri -"

Suddenly, Kyoko leaned in and pressed her lips against Makoto's. A rush of adrenaline shot through Makoto as Kyoko held him tight and kissed him deeply. Makoto returned the kiss with just as much passion. The warmth and softness of Kyoko's lips filled him with a euphoria like no other. They had gone through so much to reach this point, and now Makoto never wanted to let Kyoko go.

Kyoko breathed deeply as she pulled back. Her cheeks were still red. "That was… wow…"

Makoto laughed awkwardly. "Uh, yeah…"

More tears welled up in Kyoko's eyes. "Makoto…"

"Huh?"

Kyoko hugged him even more tightly than before; tears trickled down her face. "M-Makoto, I th-thought you were going to die. I thought I was g-going to lose you." She sobbed. "I'm s-so happy you survived. I'm so glad you're here with me. Makoto…"

Makoto hugged Kyoko back as she finally vented her emotions.

"It'll never happen again," Kyoko whispered. "I'll never, ever abandon you again. I'll always protect you, Makoto. To my dying breath."

"I'll protect you, too, Kyoko."

Kyoko buried her face into Makoto's shoulder and wept. Her body trembled in Makoto's arms as he kept holding her. In a way, it was actually nice to see this side of her. He was glad that Kyoko could finally share her true feelings with him. He knew that she had been bottling them up for a long time, and he wanted Kyoko to let it all out.

Kyoko stayed like that for quite some time, quietly sobbing into Makoto's shoulder.

"I'm sorry…"

"I know."

"Never again…"

"I know."

"I…"

Makoto gently pat Kyoko on the back. "It's okay now," Makoto whispered. "We made it. We're safe."

"Makoto…"

Kyoko's sobs gradually calmed down until her head rested peacefully against him. They remained still, feeling the warmth of each other's bodies. The two of them savored the moment, comforted by each other's embrace.

Eventually, Kyoko lifted her head and wiped her face. "Sorry, I don't imagine this is how you expected your confession to turn out."

Makoto smiled at her. "Maybe not, but I'm happy all the same."

Kyoko smiled back. "Don't worry. I promise I won't make a habit of whining like this. Cool Kyoko will be back before you know it."

Makoto gave her an affectionate laugh. "I don't mind this side of Kyoko. You don't have to be afraid to take your mask off around me. If we're going to be together, I want the full Kyoko experience."

Kyoko blushed. "That doesn't sound so bad. I guess you've rubbed off on me a little." She held a hand to her chin as she smiled lovingly at him. "Yes, I think what I really needed was a chance to express myself. When Alter Ego saved you, I had never felt more relieved in my life. It's only just now that I've been able to properly tell you how happy I am that you survived. You've become so important to me, Makoto."

Kyoko's words made Makoto's eyes water with joy. "Kyoko…"

Kyoko gazed deep into him. "There is one more thing I've left unsaid for too long… thank you. Thank you, Makoto, for saving my life."

With a warm smile, Makoto pulled her in and kissed her again. More gently this time, but no less electrifying. Kyoko happily kissed him back as she caressed his cheeks with her gloved hands. The tenderness of Kyoko's lips sent Makoto's heart racing. He wanted to melt all her doubts and regrets away.

Kyoko sighed contentedly as she pulled back. "It feels… right. I didn't think it would, but it does."

Makoto's heart fluttered at Kyoko's words. He went in for yet another kiss. He rubbed his hands along Kyoko's back as he did, and Kyoko moved her hands behind his shoulders and hugged him close, pressing their chests against each other. Kyoko deepened the kiss as she did, eagerly moving her lips with Makoto's. Makoto was blown away by how enthusiastically Kyoko was embracing him. His head felt lighter than ever, and he hoped Kyoko felt as happy as he was.

They were out of breath by the time they pulled away from each other. Makoto let out another laugh. "So, uh, do you accept my confession?"

Kyoko giggled. "Yes, Makoto. I like you, too."

Makoto beamed. "I'm so happy to hear that."

Kyoko lovingly smiled back and kissed him on the cheek. "I apologize for dumping all that baggage on you, but from now on, I want to see where these feelings we share go. I'm looking forward to it."

'These feelings we share,' huh? That was a nice dodge, but Makoto didn't just like Kyoko. He was in love with this woman. She may have presented herself as reserved and withdrawn, but that made it all the more worth it when she did open herself up. Makoto wanted to see that warm smile of hers for years to come.

He wanted to tell her that, but it didn't feel like the right time. Their relationship had already escalated so suddenly. Makoto didn't want to overwhelm Kyoko by coming on even stronger. He had to be patient.

Kyoko stepped back and exhaled sharply. "Well, I suppose I should get going. We both need our rest."

Makoto had half a mind to ask Kyoko to stay the night, but again, too soon. He nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow, Kyoko." He suddenly tensed up, only now becoming fully cognizant of what he had called her. "Uh, is it okay for me to call you that?"

Kyoko gave a subtle smile and shyly brushed her hair. "Oh, right. I started that, didn't I? I don't dislike it, but only when we're alone, okay?"

Makoto let out a relaxed chuckle. "Heh, okay." But then the sinking feeling in his stomach returned. "Wait, are you saying you want to keep this a secret?"

Kyoko met his eyes ruefully. "I'm sorry, but yes. I know that's not fair to you, and I know it goes against your nature. It's just… if the wrong people knew, they could use it against us. It's for both of our safety."

Makoto rubbed his chin. "I mean, it's a little late for that, don't you think? Everyone already knows we're close friends. Dating or not, I would be devastated if something happened to you."

"You have a point," Kyoko admitted. "Still, I would rather not give them more reason to exploit us."

Makoto frowned, but he nodded. As much as he wanted their friends to know, he had to respect Kyoko's wishes. "I understand. I'll keep this quiet."

Kyoko smiled at him gratefully. "Thank you, Makoto, and sorry again. I do hope we won't have to hide someday."

Makoto turned his frown into a lopsided smile. "Well, keeping it a secret does sound kinda hot…"

Blushing, Kyoko let out a small laugh. "I suppose you must like secrets if you're interested in me." She softly glided her fingers along Makoto's chest, which made him swoon. "Sometimes I don't know which of us is the greater enigma," Kyoko whispered in his ear.

Makoto was beet red at this point. "Haha… uh, I do look forward to unraveling your mysteries."

Kyoko closed her eyes and smiled. "Alright, I really should get going now. Goodnight, Makoto."

As Kyoko turned to leave, Makoto called out to her. "Wait! One more thing!"

Kyoko stopped. "Yes?"

Makoto smiled awkwardly. "Umm, so… did Togami say anything to you?"

Kyoko smirked and said nothing.

"Uh, Kyoko?"

Still smirking, Kyoko turned and left the room.

Makoto sighed in defeat, but it was a good kind of defeat. "Some things never change."