Chapter 40: The Reality of Parent-Teacher Conferences

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Kaiya POV

"Don't forget about the upcoming parent-teacher conferences," Sensei reminded us as the final bell rang.

"Oh no..." I muttered, clutching my book a little too tightly before it slipped from my hands and hit the floor with a thud.

"Tough luck," Masumi said under her breath, shaking her head.

As the classroom emptied, I hesitated for a moment before stepping forward.

"Sensei," I approached his desk. "About the conferences... I'm in a bit of a tricky situation."

He opened a folder and glanced at my file. "Miss Matsuki, according to this, your parents are out of town?"

"Yes. And with such short notice, they may not be able to attend," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "I was hoping, maybe, I could be excused?"

"I'm afraid that won't be possible," he replied. "These conferences are mandatory. It's important that I speak with your guardians about your progress. However, I see the Kudos are listed as your emergency contacts. I can speak with them instead."

"T-that may also be... difficult," I stammered, my mind racing.

"I'll need to meet with them regardless. I have to discuss Shinichi Kudo's case as well."

"He's currently working on a long-term case and has been keeping up with all his assignments independently," I said quickly.

"Yes, and as per the agreement with the school, he's only permitted to be absent if he attends the conferences," the teacher replied pointedly.

"I understand," I said with a bow. "I'll let them know."

I hurried out of the room, heart pounding. Oh no. What had I just gotten myself into?

***************

(at the Kudo Residence)

"Thanks for coming on a short notice, Heiji" I set down a tray of tea for everyone as we gathered in the living room.

"I couldn't refuse when I got a frantic call that Kudo needed my help again ya know." Heiji replied, nodding his head.

"Well, I'm sure you know the drill by now, I can help disguise you as Shinichi, and we just have to get through the conference." I explained.

"Will Masumi be alright?" Shuichi asked from the corner of the room.

"She said a family friend will attend as her guardian," I replied, grateful that at least one thing was settled.

****************

We approached the school, only to find a swarm of reporters clustered outside the gates.

"It's the Kudos! May we have a word with you?" Microphones were shoved in our faces, camera flashes firing in rapid bursts, blinding us.

"How did they know we'd be coming?!" I gasped as Heiji, still disguised as Shinichi, pulled me through the gate.

"It's a problem if both Yusaku and Yukiko-san get caught up in that mess," he muttered. "They're supposed to be at the meeting with us."

"It's supposed to start soon..." I said anxiously as we hurried toward the main building.

****************

Inside the classroom, Sensei greeted us with a warm, expectant smile.

"What a wonderful surprise. It's been a while," he said, addressing Heiji as if he were Shinichi.

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