𝒀/𝑵'𝒔 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒄𝒚: 𝒀𝒖𝒋𝒊, 𝑴𝒚 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝑶𝒃𝒔𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏

Episode XVI: Case File Natsumi: Camping Site Secrets

•❅───✧❅✦❅✧───❅•

We synchronized our movements. As I strolled alongside Megumi through the serene streets, the warm afternoon sun cast long, sinuous shadows across the ground, like dark tentacles stretching out to snare us. The air was alive with the sweet, heady scent of blooming cherry blossoms, their delicate pink petals swaying gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing dance of color and light. The tranquil atmosphere, filled with the soft chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves, was a stark contrast to the tension building within me, my senses heightened as we approached our destination.

"I'm here, so we'll definitely win," I declared confidently, my voice ringing out into the stillness, echoing off the nearby buildings. Megumi raised an eyebrow, his dark blue eyes sparkling with amusement, the corners of his mouth twitching into a subtle smile. "Your relentless confidence is as compelling as ever," he said, his tone laced with dry humor, his voice low and smooth.

I shot him a playful grin, feeling a sense of connection wash over me. We had worked together countless times, and our partnership honed to perfection.

As we continued on our mission, I couldn't help but tease Megumi about his social skills. "Megumi, seriously, you need to work on your social skills," I said, encouraging him lightly. Megumi's expression remained unchanged, his features chiseled from granite. "What's wrong with my social skills?" he asked, his voice empty of emotion. I chuckled, shaking my head.

"You're handsome, but you look so cold," I explained, my eyes locked on his. "You look at girls unemotional like you're sizing them up for a mission. It's frightening!" I exclaimed, magnifying my words for effect. Megumi's brow furrowed, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I'm just observant," he said, his tone matter-of-fact.

I laughed, the sound carrying through the quiet streets. "Smile, Megumi. Just a little. You'll kill them with your handsomeness," I suggested, my voice laced with delight. Megumi's raven-black hair fell across his forehead, framing his angular face. "If I smile at them, they'll die?" he asked, his tone deadpan.

I blinked, taken aback by his literal interpretation. "No, not literally!" I laughed, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. Megumi's obliviousness was adorable, and I found myself smiling at his sincerity.

"What do you mean, then?" Megumi asked, his eyes searching mine for clarification. I shook my head, deciding to let it drop. "Forget it." Megumi's expression remained puzzled, but he nodded, accepting the change in subject.

I shot him a playful grin, feeling a sense of camaraderie wash over me, our easy banter a testament to our well-honed partnership. "Hey, someone's got to keep your discouragement in check," I teased, nudging him lightly.

Megumi's expression remained unchanged, but a hint of warmth flickered in his eyes. "I'm not gloomy, just sensible," he corrected, his tone matter-of-fact. I chuckled, shaking my head. "Either way, it's time to work on your social skills, Megumi. You're handsome, but you look like you're always plotting something. It's scary." I explained, my voice laced with cheer. Megumi's brow furrowed, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I'm just focused," he said, his tone unwavering.