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Snow had begun to fall in Yokohama, covering the land with a thin pristine white coat. That meant most of the stray animals would feel cold along with hungry during this season. Especially the cats.
That didn't sit too well with Fukuzawa. He brought some warm tuna soup with bonito flakes on top for the cats in the park. He sat on the bench as the cats mewled and butted against each other for more of the treat.
He felt the presence of another person and turned his head to see another stray cat. Except this one worked under him and was named Dazai Osamu.
“Shachou really cares about the cats doesn't he?” he asked, even though he knew the answer. He sat next to him on the bench. The cats clamoured over Dazai's feet, but he didn't mind them. He was wearing a beige sweater with brown corduroy pants. It was his day off (official or unofficial, who knew). The sweater didn't cover much of his neck though, leaving it exposed to the cold.
“They don't have anyone to look after them,” Fukuzawa replied. In comparison, Fukuzawa was dressed much warmer, wearing layers of kimono and a woolen coat and a yellow scarf covering his neck.
“Ah, Shachou is very kind… Looking after all those who don't have no one.” He was completely different to Mori, for once he actually cares about those who worked under him, regardless of the outcome. Ranpo was lucky to have been found by him. Now if only he was lucky enough...
Dazai leaned back on the bench, stretching his legs out. There was no use of pondering on what could have happened. There was only the present which he could focus on.
“That includes you too, Dazai-kun,” Fukuzawa replied. Dazai swore he could see a hint of warmth in those steel blue eyes of his. He didn't question how he knew what he was thinking, taking care of Ranpo would have taught him tricks.
Dazai let out a soft chuckle, “Shachou, I'm already an adult who has seen so much of the world. I doubt that your help would be necessary.”
“But you would like attention wouldn't you?” came the blunt reply.
Dazai's eyes widened, in all his life he never heard such kindness from his superior which he could trust. That he knew the words were genuine. His chest began to feel warm and fuzzy. He was right, he wanted it. He wanted the feeling of comfort and trust. He had that once, and it was taken away from him. But perhaps with Fukuzawa, it wouldn't disappear.
Dazai felt something soft wrap around his neck, bringing him to the present. Fukuzawa had taken his scarf off and gave it to Dazai.
“Here, your neck seemed too exposed for it to be comfortable.” He said. Dazai noticed how his silver hair framed around his face. Despite his age, he was handsome Wait why am I thinking about this? He mentally slapped himself.
Fukuzawa got up from the bench, taking the empty bowl away from the cats. “If you wish, you can join Ranpo and I for dinner,” he said. Even though it was structured like a command, the soft tone made it more like a gentle request. That made Dazai's heart squirm a little more. Before he could respond, Fukuzawa was gone, leaving Dazai with a lot of free time to think.
Maybe he could take up that offer. After all it was a request from his dear boss.