Bungou Stray Dogs x OC ~ Alter Ego

Chapter 33

Higuchi had been just as talkative as when they first met, much to Yui's despair (?). To tell the truth, she was not sure whether she had a headache from her escort's incessant chatter, the heat or only plain tiredness.

Perhaps a combination of all three, after all? Not to mention the appointment she was about to have, which was already consuming a good part of her energy.

In any case, when she reached her destination, she felt liberated, stepping out of the air-conditioned car with a silent sigh. In principle, Aiko had taken great care to wrap her wound in a new, thick bandage, and the dress she was wearing covered her legs sufficiently so that the location of the cut would not be visible, even if it started bleeding again for some reason.

The walk to the exit of the underground garage was calm, without Higuchi talking incessantly, as if she did not dare to do so now that they were out of the car.

Yui's shoes clacked softly on the asphalt of the underground garage, which was most certainly dedicated to distinguished guests, since the asphalt soon gave way to what she recognized as a carpet, which she obviously could not see.

"If that is not unfortunate... The red carpet has been rolled out for me once again, but I am incapable of appreciating it... I am sorry about that," Yui joked in a soft voice, hoping her escort would relax a little before they reached the elevator.

The last thing she needed was that the one who was supposed to accompany her would faint from nervousness. For some reason, Higuchi seemed more stressed than ever. What exactly was happening to her? Did it have anything to do with the search for the ability user, whom the Mafia must still be hunting down at the moment?

Yui soon learned that this was not the main reason for her escort's behavior. In addition to the guards and the young woman at her side, Yui suddenly felt the presence of a new person, a presence that was stifling.

Not as oppressive as Mori Ougai's, but oppressive, nonetheless. An aura full of darkness and negative feelings, so much so that the young woman with the two-tone hair stood watch, hand on her pendant hidden in the sleeve of her dress, ready to act if the occasion called for it.

Even if she had to resort to this thing, if it kept her alive a few days longer. She knew that the Mafia was a dangerous and violent place, despite the friendly posture they took to welcome their distinguished guests. And this newcomer was no exception to the rule, far from it.

Worse, in fact. He was the perfect example to remind Yui of who she was dealing with. She could feel the animosity seeping out of this person, although fortunately she was not the main one concerned. At least, she could only imagine.

Higuchi tensed at her side, a sign that the newcomer intimidated her greatly. Perhaps he was the reason behind her nervous behavior since they got out of the car?

"Akutagawa...! Good evening, I-"

Higuchi was nevertheless cut off by the said Akutagawa, which name echoed a distant memory in Yui's mind. She was sure she had heard it before, but did not remember where. Maybe he was a well-known member of the Mafia?

Or was it Higuchi herself who had mentioned him on a previous car ride?

Maybe both, who knows.

"You're the one who must see the boss? You're late," declared Akutagawa in a monotone voice devoid of politeness, but strangely full of silent reproach. "Hurry up and follow me."

Yui was not exactly known for holding grudges against others for their shortcomings, whatever they might be, as long as they did not cross a certain line. But at the moment, the girl was feeling a bit moody.