One step at a time

Is this true?

(February 08)

Kanji's heart had been racing all day. Today, he was finally going to try to confess his feelings to the prince-like detective, Naoto Shirogane. He felt like his heart could jump right out of his chest and run away from him. He knew that Naoto wasn't the mushy type, but no matter what version of her appeared, he still liked her. He liked everything about her—her voice, her face, her sharp mind, and her cool personality.

He started to pace around the riverbank, figuring that this quiet and peaceful place, away from the public eye, would be a good spot to confess. Anxiously, he waited for her arrival, making sure to be clear in his text that he wanted to discuss something important. Not long after, Naoto showed up at the meeting spot, wearing her blue button-up shirt and yellow tie paired with dark jeans. She looked so beautiful, just looking at her made him feel foolish. Naoto stood in front of the tall blonde male, looking up at him due to their height difference. "Good evening, Kanji-kun. You wanted to discuss a matter with me?" Naoto spoke with that same smooth, cool tone she always had. God, there she went with her formal way of speaking. Even that sounded pretty, and he couldn't help but blush at the overwhelming sight of her.

Under the soft glow of the streetlights, Kanji Tatsumi shifted from foot to foot, his heart racing as he gathered the courage to speak. He glanced at Naoto Shirogane, who stood nearby, her sharp eyes focused on him with an intensity that made his cheeks flush. "Um, Naoto," he stammered, scratching the back of his head, trying to mask his nerves with a casual grin. "I know I'm not great with words, but I've gotta say... I really like you. Like, a lot. like i mean ever since we meet that day you came to my mom's shop i liked you but i was so confused with myself. since you were a guy b-but there nothing wrong with that of course, but i found out you were a girl i felt the same... " The confession hung in the air, filled with the weight of his vulnerability. He watched as Naoto's expression softened, his heart pounding in anticipation, hoping for a spark of understanding behind her usually composed demeanor. 

Naoto blinked, her usual stoicism momentarily replaced by surprise. For a moment, she seemed at a loss for words, the weight of Kanji's confession hanging between them like a fragile thread. "Kanji," she finally said, her voice steady but gentle, "I appreciate your honesty. It takes a lot of courage to say something like that." A faint blush crept across her cheeks, and she looked down, contemplating her response. "I've always admired your strength and determination. I... I didn't realize you felt this way." Her gaze met his, a flicker of warmth sparking in her eyes. "I'd like to explore this, if you're willing to give it a chance even if I'm no good with these type of emotion."

Kanji's face lit up like a light bulb; he was surprised that she had accepted him so quickly. He figured he would have to plan his funeral after being rejected. He didn't realize he had a big goofy grin on his face, which made Naoto chuckle. She found him quite amusing and sweet, the tough delinquent everyone thought he was was just a facade—he was really a gentle soul. Naoto stepped forward and held out her hand to him. Kanji hesitated at first, then reached out and placed his large hands into hers. Gosh, even her hands were pretty. "I-I hope I'm not dreaming. I want this to be real, I want to be the best for you. Naoto, you deserve so much more than what you say," he sighed, still nervous as the energy felt thick between them.

Naoto smiles softly, her gaze warm as she held his hands. "Kanji," she began, her voice steady but gentle, "you don't have to worry about being perfect. Just being yourself is more than enough for me." She paused, searching his eyes for sincerity. "I've always admired your strength and your heart, even if you sometimes hide it behind a tough exterior. It's refreshing to see this side of you." She took a small step closer, her expression earnest. "I want this to be real too. I'm not looking for perfection, I'm looking for someone who truly understands me. And I think you do." Her heart raced, feeling the connection between them deepen. "Let's take this journey together, okay?"

Kanji nodded, still holding her hand as he stared down at them. She was so warm. Naoto's free hand reached up to touch his chin, gently pulling his gaze to meet her own eyes. He felt himself lean closer, sharing their first kiss. Butterflies swirled in his stomach like a chaotic storm, but he enjoyed it. Her lips were soft and tasted like coffee and vanilla. Naoto had never felt these kinds of emotions before, but somehow, she liked it. As she wrapped her arms around his neck, his arms instinctively went around her waist, pulling her closer. In that moment, everything else faded away, leaving just the two of them enveloped in a shared warmth and connection. after the prolonged kissed he move his face away and immediately hugged her laying his head on her shoulder 

Naoto pulled back slightly, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush as she met Kanji's gaze. "Wow," she whispered, a soft smile spreading across her face. "I didn't expect that." She felt a flutter in her chest, a mix of excitement and disbelief. "It's... nice, isn't it? To finally let our feelings show?" She brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear, still feeling the warmth of the moment. "I've always been so focused on my work, but with you, I feel like I can be myself." She stepped closer again, her heart racing. "Let's explore this together, Kanji. I want to see where it takes us."

Kanji felt his heart swell at Naoto's smile. "Yeah, it really is nice," he replied, his voice a little rough with emotion. He looked into her eyes, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. "I've never really felt like this with anyone before. You make me feel... I don't know, different. Like I can be more than just the tough guy everyone sees." He took a breath, squeezing her hands gently. "I want to be here for you, Naoto. I want to support you, just like you've always supported me. Together, we can face anything." A wide grin broke across his face. "I guess I'm just really glad we're on this journey together."

Naoto gave a confident nod toward the taller male "Yes, exactly we can take it one step at a time kanji" she side as she stayed in his arms letting her guard down completely. feeling entirely safe and secure around him. after a few moment Kanji finally let of of the hug and step back and he looked down at her "W-want to come back to my place? my mom can make us tea and something to eat if your free" he asked his tone hopeful she able to join him for the rest of the evening he wanted to continue to share the evening with her

Naoto's eyes brightened at the invitation, and a small smile crept onto her face. "I'd love to, Kanji," she replied, her voice warm. "Tea and food sound perfect right now." She felt a flutter of excitement at the thought of spending more time with him, away from the pressures of their usual lives. "I've always wanted to see more of your world," she added, her curiosity piqued. "Plus, i Heard your mom's cooking is quite amazing!" She stepped closer again, feeling a sense of comfort and anticipation. "Let's go! I'm looking forward to it."

The two walked side by side, fingers intertwined, as they made their way to Kanji's home. Upon entering, Kanji's mother appeared at the door, her eyes lighting up at the sight of them. "Oh, Kanji, honey! Welcome back! I see you finally popped the question—I'm so proud of you!" she exclaimed. "Come in, come in! I'll make a special dish to celebrate!" With that, she gently grasped Naoto's hand from Kanji's and led her inside, guiding her to the dining room. Kanji followed behind, feeling a mix of pride and embarrassment. "Ma! Don't be too rough with her; you might scare her off!" he interjected, his cheeks reddening at his mom's enthusiastic approach

Naoto followed Kanji's mother and sit down at the table, kanji immediately sitting down next naoto and lean over "I'm Sorry, she always so forward" he side feeling slightly embarrassed about his mom so suddenly Hansie

Naoto shook her head slightly as she smile soffly "It's quite alright kanji-kun, I don't mind at all I know she means well" naoto spoke with a claim tone as shuffling can be heard from the kitchen bringing their attention to it

Kanji reach his head up and called out "Ma! You all good in there?" He called his mother reply with a loud Mhm. He got up and goes into the kitchen to help out. Naoto take a look around with her eyes. She used to leaving in a big home due to her family legacy and fame,  though that never mattered to her. She like this cozy smaller house it felt warm and inviting

After a few moments kanji and his mother come out with drinks and food, she had prepared tea and Tofu Katsu Curry. It smelled amazing. His mother places the blow down "dig in sweetie" she spoke as she sat down to. Kanji and her both started to eat. The night was absolutely amazing good good and good company she felt more at home now she could get use to this.