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The evening draped itself over the city like a velvet curtain, casting a gentle glow upon your balcony. With a cigarette between your fingers, wisps of smoke spiralled upwards, dancing with the cool night air. You sat perched on the edge, the weight of your thoughts heavy on your shoulders, your mind consumed by the enigma that was Ranpo and the disquieting file you had discovered.
Lost in the labyrinth of your contemplations, your solitude was interrupted by a soft but distinct knock on your bedroom door. Startled, you turned your head, your eyes widened with surprise as the door swung open, revealing the silhouette of Yosano, your colleague and confidante. A soft smile graced your lips, your heart warming at the sight of a familiar face.
"May I join you?" Yosano asked, her voice carrying a hint of concern and curiosity. Your nod was both assent and relief, inviting Yosano onto the balcony. As she settled beside you, a calming presence enveloped the space, like a fragile sanctuary amid the current tumult of your life.
With a flick of your wrist, you extinguished your cigarette, its ember fading into the night. You welcomed Yosano's company, yearning for a respite from the swirling tempest of thoughts that had consumed you. Yet, you hesitated to share the weight that burdened your heart, unsure of the repercussions that your revelations might bring.
Unaware of your inner turmoil, Yosano leaned back, gazing at the starlit sky. "Ranpo has been looking for you," she mentioned casually, unaware of the impact her words carried. Your breath caught, a blend of surprise and trepidation washing over you. How could you face him now, knowing the doubts that plagued...whatever it was that was going on between you?
"I see," you let out a long sigh.
"You see? You're not going to find him?" She asked, surprised.
You shook your head, "not tonight. I just need some time to gather my thoughts and sort through everything." Your voice was laced with a mixture of determination and uncertainty. The weight of the file still lingered in your mind, threatening to shatter the fragile trust you had built with Ranpo. You desperately wished you could tell Yosano everything, but you couldn't, not when you knew that you were going to lose her eventually, too.
Yosano could tell there was something going on between you and Ranpo, but if you weren't going to willingly tell her, then she wasn't going to press you for answers. She knew you'd spill eventually. Her gaze softened, her eyes reflecting a glimmer of understanding. She reached out and placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder, offering silent support. "Take all the time you need," she said, her voice filled with empathy. "But remember, sometimes the answers we seek are not found in avoidance but in honest conversations."
You nodded, appreciating Yosano's wisdom. The flickering city lights painted shadows on your face, mirroring the conflict within your heart. With Yosano's presence, the weight of your doubts seemed a little more bearable.
