Archive of Our Own

Barok didn’t think he would, once again, have someone to call his family. At first, he thought such a thing would bring him nothing but joy, but, the more he thought about it, the more he hesitated to try to become closer to Iris.

He was glad to know that Klint and his wife had brought such a wonderful child to the world before their tragic departure. Iris was a sweet and talented girl, and Barok was proud to have her as his niece. Yet, he feared someone as bitter as himself couldn’t be a positive influence to a young girl such as her.

As much as he wished he could have done more for Iris, in a way, he was grateful that Yujin Mikotoba took her to Herlock Sholmes instead of him. Barok had always considered the Great Detective an obnoxious man, and a walking source of his headaches, but it was impossible to deny how much he had done for Iris during all those years. Looking at the girl she was now, so happy and accomplished, it was clear that Sholmes had been an excellent father figure, who offered her all the love and support she needed while growing up. For that, Barok would never be able to thank him enough.

But it also left him not knowing how to look at that man, who he had purposefully treated as a nuisance for so long. Sholmes, Genshin, and especially Klint… All those men proved to be much different from the images he had formed in his mind.

Genshin… Sometimes, he wondered what had gone through his old Nipponese friend’s head as Barok assured a guilty verdict in that fateful trial. Could it be that, as he confessed to all those crimes he hadn’t committed, he quietly hoped that Barok would notice the contradictions and put an end to Stronghart’s plan? Barok would never know… At the time, he was too young and too easily influenced by his emotions to see those now obvious clues.

And that, of course, became his greatest regret.

“Sir?”

His apprentice’s voice made him raise his head. Like his father, Kazuma too had proved to be much different from what he initially expected. Despite what had happened during his trial almost two years ago, and all of Barok’s mistakes before that, Kazuma found it in his heart to, maybe not forgive, but at least give him a chance to compensate by becoming his mentor.

Kazuma really resembled Genshin in many ways… He was much more straightforward and less reserved than his father, of course, but also carried a kind and honored heart, as well as a strong sense of justice. Not only that, but he also proved to be a valuable friend to Barok—someone he would trust with his life without a second thought. After so many years trusting no one, and purposefully keeping his distance from others, that feeling was still a little strange to Barok… But far from unwelcome.

“Yes, Kazuma?” he said.

Kazuma observed him for a moment. “Is something wrong? You seemed to be distracted.”

“It’s nothing, just a headache.”

That wasn’t a complete lie: Barok had slept poorly the previous night, and woken up with that faint, but persistent pain. The answer, however, didn’t seem to ease Kazuma’s concern.

“Shouldn’t you be resting, then?” he asked. “It might get worse if you keep forcing yourself to work through it.”

“I’m fine,” Barok reassured. “It’s nothing to worry about.”

Kazuma nodded. “Just let me know if it gets worse.”

He seemed about to go back to his desk, but stopped himself, looking at Barok once again. “By the way, sir… Iris asked about you. She said you should visit again sometime.”

Oh, of course… It had been over a year since Kazuma had moved into Sholmes’ attic, where once had been Ryunosuke Naruhodo’s office. It wasn’t difficult to see how close he had become to Sholmes and Iris during that period, and, in a way, that brought Barok some relief: it was good to know that Iris was surrounded by people she could depend on, and who truly cared about her. Besides, he would never admit it out loud, but he had been concerned about Kazuma as well, especially during his first months in London. Living alone in an unfamiliar place after almost an entire year with no memories… It was good to know that he had found a good place to stay, as well as good friends.

“I see.” Barok showed a faint smile. “Thank you for the message.”

Kazuma didn’t move, seeming troubled by something. Barok was about to ask if there was something else he needed when he spoke again. “I don’t mean to meddle in your affairs, sir, but it has been a while since you last paid her a visit.”

Barok let out a small sigh. “Indeed.”

“She’s your niece,” added Kazuma, “and she misses you.”

“She would be happier if she never learned of that fact.”

His words seemed to surprise Kazuma. “Why do you say that?

“I fail to see how a callous, bitter man such as myself, would be a positive presence in her life.”

“You’re exaggerating.” Kazuma showed a slight, playful smile. “Iris really likes you, regardless of your occasional grumpiness.”

Barok lowered his gaze, feeling his chest tighten. “No little girl would want to be related to monsters such as Klint and myself.”

Kazuma simply looked at him for a long while, his smile slowly fading. “You shouldn’t say something like that,” he muttered. “You’re a good man, and we all know it.”

“A good man wouldn’t have sentenced an innocent person to death,” Barok pointed out.

A heavy silence filled the office for a while, making Barok regret his words. He usually avoided mentioning Genshin and Klint to Kazuma, but the words left his mouth before he could stop them.

“If that’s the case,” said Kazuma, “then we are a pair of monsters.”

Barok stared at him, caught off-guard by those words. “That’s not what I meant.”

“I would have sentenced you as well if it wasn’t for your outstanding defense attorney.” Kazuma showed a bitter smile. “What is the difference between us?”

Barok stayed silent for a moment. “Genshin was my friend. I should have trusted him.”

“And you were my mentor, even back then,” answered Kazuma. “You showed nothing but kindness toward me, and I repaid you by wishing for your death.”

It was true that Barok cared for him since his quiet, nameless days… Even with that mask, he could tell that Kazuma was a Nipponese man, but that didn’t stop him from sympathizing with his situation. Would he have felt the same way if he knew that he was Genshin’s son, though? He couldn’t tell… Probably not.

“I didn’t mean to make you feel guilty.” Barok sighed. “Please, forgive me.”

“I know.” Kazuma offered him a smile. “Because, as I said, you’re a good man. Why would you care, otherwise?”

Barok didn’t answer.

“And it seems my father considered you a good friend as well,” Kazuma continued. “He wouldn’t want you to keep blaming yourself for something that wasn’t your fault.” He made a brief pause. “In the end, all of us were just pawns in Stronghart’s game. If you must direct your hatred toward someone, then curse his name, not your own.”

Again, Barok said nothing. Kazuma bowed slightly to him in a respectful way.

“I’ll leave to your work now, sir,” he said. “I’m sorry for taking so much of your time.”

Barok simply watched as he walked back to his desk, those words still in his mind. He wanted to believe them, but it was difficult to get rid of all that guilt.

He tried to brush those thoughts away, focusing on his work for the rest of the day. When he was done, his headache had gotten worse. Not wanting to admit that Kazuma was right, however, he did his best not to let it show in his expression.

“Lord van Zieks.”

For a moment, Barok thought his efforts had failed. He looked at Kazuma, preparing himself for a sharp comment. “Yes?”

“Can I ask you a favor?”

Oh, thank God… Barok nodded. “Of course. What is it?”

Kazuma hesitated for just a moment. “Well, I was invited for a small event this Sunday, and the host made it clear that we should go accompanied, so…” Another hesitant pause. “Would you mind going with me?”

Barok stared at him, surprised. “Me? What about Gina, or Sholmes?”

“They already have plans,” answered Kazuma. “It’s an informal event, and it won’t last more than a few hours. I’ll understand if you’re busy, but… If you could go with me, I’d be very grateful.”

It took Barok a few seconds to fully absorb his words. “I see… Sunday, you said?”

“Yes, Sunday afternoon.”

Barok thought briefly. “I suppose I’m free that day.” He stopped himself before giving a definitive answer. “Are you sure about this, though? I’m not a very sociable man… I doubt you would properly enjoy your day with me around.”

Kazuma frowned at that answer. “You’re being too harsh on yourself again… You know I wouldn’t have asked you if I didn’t want your company, right?”

That straightforwardness—uncommon among the British, and even rarer among the Nipponese—never failed to catch Barok off-guard. He managed to keep a composed expression, however, as he gave the offer some thought. “If that’s the case, then… Of course, I’ll accompany you.”

Kazuma’s expression brightened at that answer. “Thank you, sir!”

His reaction brought a slight smile to Barok’s lips. “There’s no need to thank me for such a small thing.”

Besides, Kazuma had done much more for him already, and not only as a competent and helpful apprentice. Every time Kazuma showed concern about Barok’s health, scolded him for overworking himself, or tended to his wounds after a confrontation on the streets, it made Barok wonder if Kazuma also came to care for him the same way he did.

He wouldn’t dare to assume such a thing, and yet, he still hoped that was the case.

Barok couldn’t deny he spent the rest of the week looking forward to their plans on Sunday. He wasn’t the kind of person others—except for Albert—would willingly choose to spend their time with, and he thought he was fine with it. It took a situation like that to make him realize how lonely he actually felt.

He arrived at their meeting place a little earlier than combined. Minutes later, Kazuma approached him, greeting him with a wide smile. “I hope I didn’t make you wait.”

“You didn’t,” said Barok. “So, where are we going?”

“I’m supposed to meet two friends here in a while. We’ll go together from here.”

His words surprised Barok. “I thought you said you had no friends available to accompany you.”

Kazuma shrugged. “Those two have already paired up. And they wouldn’t give me peace if I was the only one on my own.”

“I see.” Barok thought for a moment. “Won’t it be worse if you arrive accompanied by someone like—”

“If you’re going to say something cruel about yourself, don’t.”

That interruption, accompanied by his annoyed stare, amused Barok. He was used to those self-deprecating thoughts, to the point that they, sometimes, turned into words by accident. Kazuma had complained about it quite a few times… Barok doubted he would ever meet someone who got so bothered by it as his apprentice did.

“As you wish,” he said.

Kazuma shook his head with a small sigh. “You really need to stop doing that.”

“I know,” said Barok. “I’m trying to.”

“That’s good… It annoys me to hear people badmouthing my mentor.”

“Even if it’s the man himself?”

“Especially if it’s the man himself.”

Barok showed a slight smile. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Kazuma returned the smile. He seemed about to say something else, but soon something grabbed his attention. “Ah, they’re here.”

Barok followed his gaze to an approaching omnibus. At the top of it were Gina Lestrade and Maria Gorey, sitting side by side. Gina waved at them with a wide smile, while Maria greeted them with a small nod.

“Oi!” Gina yelled. “Kaz! Boss! Get inside!”

“Hey!” Kazuma waved back. “Did you pay the fee this time?”

“O’curse I did!” retorted Gina with a pout. “Tell him, Maria.”

Maria nodded. “I made sure she did.”

Gina grinned, seeming proud of herself. “See?”

“Good job, you two.” Kazuma laughed to himself, then opened the door, gesturing inside. “I hope you don’t mind traveling like this.”

But Barok was still too intrigued by Gina and Maria’s presences there to answer. He looked at Kazuma, hesitating for the first time since that morning. “Where exactly are we going?”

Kazuma briefly averted his gaze, but soon had a smile back on his lips. “It’s a nice place, I assure you.”

Maybe Barok had become a naturally suspicious person after so many attempts on his life, but something in that entire situation felt strange to him. He trusted Kazuma, though, so he chose to set those thoughts aside. “Very well.”

They entered the omnibus, staying quiet while Gina’s loud voice echoed above their heads. Barok paid attention to the way, and soon his suspicions proved right: they were going toward Baker Street. He looked at Kazuma, who avoided meeting his gaze.

“Where are we going?” Barok repeated in a serious voice.

“You already know, don’t you?” murmured Kazuma.

Barok didn’t answer. He wasn’t angry, but the situation still bothered him. “I’ll return to my residence.”

His words made Kazuma finally look at him. “But we’re almost there.”

“It doesn’t matter.”

His voice sounded sharper than he wanted. Kazuma stayed silent, and his remorseful expression brought a bitter feeling to Barok’s chest.

“Why didn’t you tell me the truth?” Barok asked in a low voice.

“I knew you wouldn’t come if I told you where we’re going.”

“So, you’ve chosen to lie?”

“I didn’t…” Kazuma stopped himself, lowering his gaze. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any harm by it.”

“I know you didn’t,” said Barok. “But you know how I feel about this… About her. And you’ve betrayed my trust.”

Kazuma stayed silent for a while, as if unsure of what to say. “Lord van Zieks…” He had a calm expression, but Barok could notice some anxiousness in his voice. “I don’t blame you for resenting me, but… I promised Iris I’d find a way to bring you with me today. She really wants to see you. So, please…” He reached for Barok’s hands, holding them firmly while looking him in the eyes. “Just for today. You don’t need to stay for long.”

“Iris?” Barok repeated.

Kazuma nodded. “You know how smart she is. She probably knows the truth already. She’s always asking about you. And…”

“And?”

“You want to see her too, don’t you?”

Barok’s chest tightened. He did… Of course he did. But he wasn’t sure if that was the right choice. What if he hurt her? That was what always happened to everyone who got too close to him.

“Please,” Kazuma added in a low voice. “I’ll never ask anything of you again.”

His request was so earnest that Barok couldn’t bring himself to refuse it. “Very well…” he muttered. “But I expect you to never deceive me like this again.”

“I won’t.” Kazuma sighed, relieved, letting go of Barok’s hands. “Thank you, my lord.”

It bothered Barok how quickly their friendly conversation had changed back into that awkward formality from their first months as mentor and apprentice. Neither of them spoke another word until the omnibus stopped near Baker Street. The four of them made their way to the 221B apartment, soon being welcomed inside by an enthusiastic Sholmes.

“There you are, my dear fellows!” he said. “Please, make yourselves at home. Iris is at the kitchen, preparing some delectable tarts and biscuits for us.”

As soon as they entered the place, Iris’ voice echoed from the kitchen. “Are they here, daddy?” She peeked inside the living room, her face brightening upon seeing them. “Ah, welcome! You’re just in time, the tea is almost…” Her eyes fell upon Barok, and suddenly her smile became much bigger. “Mr. Barry, you came!”

He wasn’t expecting that reaction. “Ah, yes.”

“It’s been so long… I’m so glad to see you again.” She joined her hands in front of her chest, giggling to herself. “Please, take a seat! I’ll bring the tea in a minute!”

Barok did as she suggested, sitting on the couch. He glanced around the room, finding Kazuma next to Sholmes, who enthusiastically rambled about something Barok couldn’t hear. Besides, his attention was on the man at the detective’s side. Was I too harsh to him? He knew Kazuma meant well, but being with Iris was still—

“Mr. Barry!” Iris’ voice called his attention. She placed a teapot on the table, looking at him with a sweet smile. “Could you help me in the kitchen for a moment? It’ll take forever to cut the dough by myself.”

Barok’s heart jumped. “Certainly.”

“Thank you!”

She reached for his hand, pulling him along. Barok knew he wasn’t being of much help, considering his inexistent culinary experience; but Iris didn’t mention the strange shapes of his biscuits, despite how skillfully she molded hers. Meanwhile, she shared small stories featuring her father and friends. Barok wasn’t sure of how to respond at first, but it didn’t discourage the young girl, who insisted on that conversation.

Then, little by little, his fear of saying something wrong started to fade. He liked to hear her talk, and she seemed happy whenever he responded, even if with just a few words.

My niece… It was still hard to believe, even after all that time. She was twelve already… He had lost so many years of her life. Suddenly, he realized he didn’t want to lose any more than that.

“Ah, a smile!” Iris giggled to herself. “Did you just think of something that made you happy?”

“No,” said Barok. “I’m simply enjoying your company.”

“Oh…” Iris smiled, bringing her hands to her cheeks. “I’m glad to know.” She hesitated for a moment. “We should do this more often… Don’t you think so, uncle Barry?”

That nickname filled his chest with an emotion too strong for him to contain. He offered Iris a smile. “I agree.”

Her eyes teared up as she returned the smile. She turned her back to him before bringing a hand to her face. “I’ll check if the biscuits in the oven are done.” She forced a small laugh. “I don’t want to accidentally burn them!”

Barok didn’t question her: he didn’t want her to see him crying either.

Despite their appearance, the biscuits he helped Iris make didn’t taste bad. Of course, the cute ones she made were chosen first, but it didn’t take long for the entire plate to be gone, alongside the two tarts and the tea.

Now that they had eaten to their hearts’ content, Sholmes played his violin, while the girls chatted and laughed together. Barok observed them from the couch, happy to see that content expression on Iris’ face.

Moments later, Kazuma approached him, quietly sitting by his side. Neither of them spoke for a while, until Barok finally gathered the courage to break the silence.

“You didn’t lie…” he murmured. “Iris really seemed happy to see me.”

His words seemed to make Kazuma relax a little. “Of course she was. She truly likes you.” He made a brief, hesitant pause. “Can we… talk for a minute? Just the two of us.”

“Of course.”

Barok stood up, following Kazuma to his room upstairs.

“Barok…” It was rare to hear Kazuma call him by his first name. “I wanted to apologize properly… I was so focused on bringing you here to see Iris that I didn’t consider how you’d feel about it.” He took a deep breath. “I’m sorry. I won’t do something like this again.”

Barok nodded. “I was too harsh on you, as well.”

“I know I deserved it,” said Kazuma with a small shrug. “But… I hope you know I’d never do anything to hurt you on purpose.”

“I do,” Barok reassured him. “And I’m glad you brought me here.”

“That’s good to hear… I thought I made things worse.”

“You didn’t,” said Barok. “I was upset that you hid something from me because I want to trust you without any doubts.” He made a small pause. “But I know I overreacted… and you were right: I wouldn’t have agreed to come if I knew this was your plan.” He lowered his voice, a pleasant warmth taking his chest. “And, in that case, I wouldn’t have heard Iris call me ‘uncle’.”

Kazuma widened his eyes at those words. “She did?”

Barok nodded. “I was surprised, but I haven’t felt this happy in a long while.”

“That’s… That’s great.” Kazuma’s expression brightened. He soon lowered his gaze, however, with a thoughtful expression. “I’ll try to talk properly to you from now on, though. Even if things turned out well this time, I don’t want to do something like this again, and end up hurting you.”

“Very well.” Barok considered the situation for a moment. “And I’ll try to listen properly in return. A talent I’m aware I severely lack.”

Kazuma laughed. “Sounds good to me.” He made a brief pause, meeting Barok’s gaze. “I’m glad things are fine between us.”

“Me too.”

“And I’m really happy for you and Iris,” he added with a smile. “I know you worry about getting close to her… But you’d be happier being part of each other’s lives.”

“Do you think so?”

Kazuma nodded. “I know it’s not the same thing, but… You were always a good mentor to me. I feel like I’m a better prosecutor and a better person, thanks to you.”

Those words made Barok feel warm inside. He smiled. “I appreciate your kind words.”

Kazuma shrugged. “Someone has to compensate for all those cruel things you say about yourself.” He stopped talking for a second, continuing in a lower voice. “You really are a kind person, Barok… I just wish you offered some of that kindness to yourself.”

Barok tried, but couldn’t find a proper answer to that. The thought that someone like him was deserving of kindness… No, he told Kazuma he would try to stop those thoughts. Instead of arguing, then, he simply agreed. “I will keep that in mind.”

“Please, do.” Kazuma gestured toward the stairs. “We should go back downstairs now, or soon they’ll come to drag us back.”

Before he could leave, however, Barok gathered his courage to speak again. “Just a moment, Kazuma.”

“Yes?”

That was the difficult part… Barok wasn’t that good when it came to expressing his feelings. He took a deep breath, trying to keep his mind clear. “I always let you know when you displease me in some way, but I rarely do the opposite. Unlike you, who is always finding the good in me, no matter what.”

Kazuma seemed surprised to hear those words. “There’s no need to. I say what I do because it’s how I feel, not because I expect the same from you.”

Barok shook his head: there were certain things that should be said, regardless of how difficult it was for him to turn them into words. He reached for Kazuma’s hand, holding it between his two. “You have changed my life. If it weren’t for you, I would have stayed that same pitiful man until the end of my days. Resentful, bitter, overtaken by sorrow… Purposefully distancing myself from the people I care about, and hating myself for it.” He showed a slight smile. “But you won’t allow me to go back into that dark place. Whenever I feel like I’m about to, you pull me out of it.” A small pause. “I’m grateful to you… And I hope you know it.”

Kazuma simply looked at him for a while. “I… don’t know what to say.”

His response brought some amusement to Barok’s expression. “Now you know how I feel whenever you do something like this.”

Kazuma chuckled. “I hope you can forgive me for it, sir…” He lowered his gaze, a smile taking his lips. “But I’m happy to hear that.”

There was much more Barok wanted to say, but the words failed him. Instead, he gently pulled Kazuma’s hand, bringing it to his lips, kissing it. “Thank you.”

“Barok…”

Kazuma seemed about to say something else, but stopped himself. Something in his expression made Barok wonder if Kazuma’s unspoken words were the same as his own… No, he couldn’t possibly hope for that—and yet, foolishly, he did.

Neither of them had the chance to speak before the sound of someone walking upstairs called their attention. In seconds, Sholmes appeared before them. “Ah, there you are! Iris was looking for you.” He made a pause, observing them while an amused grin slowly took form on his lips. “May I ask what you two are conspiring about, all alone up here?”

Barok scowled: a great deduction about that situation was the last thing they needed at the moment. “No, you can’t.”

Sholmes grinned. “Fortunately, I have already deduced—”

“No one cares,” Kazuma interrupted him.

“Oh, is that embarrassment that I detect in your—”

“Yes, yes… We’re going back now…” Kazuma placed his hands on Sholmes’ shoulders, guiding him back downstairs. A few steps down, however, he glanced at Barok. “Well, we’ll finish that conversation later.”

Barok’s heart jumped at the thought. “Of course.”

He followed the other two downstairs. There, Sholmes let out a loud laugh. “Dear Iris, I’ve found the escapees!”

“Good job, daddy!” said Iris. “Just in time for the dance party to start.”

Those words caught Barok off-guard. He glanced at Kazuma, confused. “Dance…?”

Kazuma simply stared back at him, mortified. “Ah, right… I forgot to mention that part too…” He averted his gaze. “But you don’t need to do it, I’m sure Iris will…”

“No excuses, Kazie!” Iris pouted. “Everyone is already paired up! Right, daddy?”

Sholmes grinned as he put a disc on the gramophone, making one of his typical over-the-top poses as the music started to play. “Certainly, my dear daughter.”

With that, he approached Iris, offering her his hand, which Iris took with a wide smile. Not far from them, Gina laughed as she pulled Maria to the center of the room. Barok glanced at Kazuma, who had a hand covering his face.

“I really should have put more thought into all this…” Kazuma murmured. “I worried so much about bringing you here that I didn’t think about the rest.”

His flustered manners were quite endearing, especially with how rare they were to see. Barok smiled fondly. “Sounds like something you would do.”

Kazuma slightly lowered his hand, glancing at Barok. “Don’t my good intentions count for anything?”

“What are you two waiting for?” asked Iris.

Barok thought for a second, then, after a momentary hesitation, offered Kazuma his hand. “Would you give me the honor?”

Kazuma looked at him, unsure. “I’m not good at this.”

“I can take the lead.”

His words made Kazuma chuckle in response. “As expected from a gentleman like you…” He took Barok’s hand. “Alright, then.”

He moved closer to Barok, who put a hand on his waist. It was difficult to think of anything but that proximity, and the warmth that came from all the places their bodies touched. It was embarrassing enough for Barok to almost regret it…

No… that was a lie. As embarrassing as it could be, feeling Kazuma so close to him was nothing but delightful. Somehow, despite how distracting it could be, Barok managed to lead the dance. Kazuma followed his steps, a little stiffly at first, but soon seeming to get more used to it.

“Well…” said Kazuma. “This isn’t going as bad as I thought.”

“You’re a fast learner.” Barok thought for a moment. “So, do you have any other surprises waiting for me today?”

The question made Kazuma laugh. “No, this was the last one.”

That was almost disappointing to hear, and Barok tried not to think too much about the reason for that feeling—not that he didn’t already know the answer.

“Ginny, Mary…” Iris giggled, calling their attention. “What are you doing?”

Barok followed her gaze, only to see the girls engaging in what seemed like the courtship between two Birds of Paradise.

“Dancing…?” said Gina.

“Dancing, definitely,” Maria agreed.

Close to him, Kazuma cackled. “That’s a very Gina way of dancing, for sure…”

Gina scowled. “Shut it, Kaz!”

Maria let out a small giggle. “Indeed.”

“Oi, Maria!”

“Iris, Kazuma…” said Sholmes. “Please, don’t be so judgmental of our guests.” He showed an amused smile. “Not everyone can be as skilled in the musical arts as I am.”

“Wot did you say?” asked Gina.

“Rude,” said Maria.

“Sorry, daddy.” Iris giggled. “Uncle Barry is really good at it, though.”

Sholmes seemed surprised for a moment, but soon had the laid-back smile again on his face. “Uncle Barry, you say?” He observed Barok and Kazuma for a moment. “Indeed.”

Kazuma looked at Iris, thinking for a moment before showing a grin. “Do you want to borrow him for a while, Iris?”

She beamed. “I’d love to!”

“All yours, then.”

Saying that, Kazuma let go of Barok, gently pushing him toward Iris, who gladly took his place as Barok’s pair.

“Oh, perfect!” said Sholmes, placing an arm around Kazuma’s shoulders and pulling him close. “I’ve been meaning to teach you something.”

“What?” asked Kazuma.

“Something dear Mikotoba excels at. Pay close attention.”

Sholmes proceeded to make a brief demonstration of tap dancing, while Kazuma watched, speechless.

“How am I supposed to imitate that?” asked Kazuma.

“Here, I’ll show you.”

Without asking if Kazuma wanted to learn it or not, Sholmes showed him those steps again, then gestured for him to try it. Kazuma glanced around, as if waiting for a rescue that didn’t come—instead, they looked at him in amused expectation. With a defeated sigh, he awkwardly tried to replicate Sholmes’ steps, with questionable results.

Gina laughed at the sight. “Who’s the bad dancer now, Kaz?”

Kazuma scowled. “And guess who isn’t getting any chips from me tomorrow?”

“Wot?” Gina pouted. “That’s unfair!”

Sholmes laughed. “Worry not, my dear Kazuma! You’ll learn after some practice.”

“Do I have the option to refuse?” asked Kazuma.

“Obviously not!” Sholmes tipped a hat he wasn’t wearing. “Here, pay attention.”

“Poor Kazie…” Iris murmured. “No one can stop daddy once he puts his mind into something.”

“I know…” Barok murmured back. “I hope Kazuma can forgive me later, but I won’t risk attracting your father’s efforts to me, instead.”

“That’s so mean!” Iris giggled. “But I think I’ll do the same.”

Barok’s expression softened as they returned to their dance. Iris laughing cheerfully as he guided her, Kazuma smiling at him when their gazes met briefly, the content expressions in everyone’s faces, even with a man like him around…

He couldn’t have asked for anything more than that.

Hours passed like no more than a few minutes, and it was already getting dark outside when Barok finally gathered the courage to leave that lively place.

“Leaving already?” asked Sholmes.

Barok nodded. “If I stay any longer, I won’t find a carriage to take me home.”

“Why don’t you spend the night here too?” Iris suggested.

“Another time, perhaps,” said Barok. “You already have your hands full with Gina and Maria.”

“Hm…” Iris pouted. “Fine, but you have to promise you’ll stay next time.”

Barok offered her a slight smile. “I promise.”

His answer made Iris’ expression brighten. “That’s alright, then. Good night, uncle Barry!”

“Good night, Iris.”

“I hope to see you soon, dear Barok,” said Sholmes.

Barok said his goodbyes to Gina and Maria as well, then was accompanied to the door by Kazuma. Once outside, Kazuma looked at his face with a slight smile. “I know I said this before, but… Thanks for coming today.”

Barok shook his head. “I should be the one thanking you. I wouldn’t be as happy as I am now if you hadn’t brought me here.”

“That’s good to hear.” Kazuma thought for a moment. “You’ll be back soon, won’t you?”

“Yes,” said Barok. “I’ve made a promise to my niece, after all.”

“That’s good.” Kazuma forced a serious expression. “Break your promises to her and you’ll have a problem with me.”

“I certainly wouldn’t want that.”

“Me neither. So, you better stay true to your word.”

“I will.” Barok smiled. “And I’m glad to know my niece has someone looking out for her when I’m not around.”

“More like we take care of each other.” He shrugged. “And we both take care of Sholmes.”

“I’m surprised you two manage it on your own.”

“Just barely.” Kazuma chuckled. “He still does something unpredictable from time to time.”

“I can imagine.”

That was probably the natural end of the conversation, for Barok’s disappointment: he knew they would see each other again in the next morning, but still, he was hesitant to say goodbye. Not only that, but… There was something he still had to say.

“Kazuma…”

He knew how he felt, he knew how much he wanted to hold Kazuma close again, and he knew he wanted Kazuma to know about those feelings as well. Yet, when he tried to speak, the words dissolved on his tongue, making the silence grow for what felt like an eternity.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” he finally said.

Kazuma nodded, the smile still on his face. “Take care on your way back.”

And, just like that, he lost his chance. His heart ached as he returned the smile. “I will. Good night.”

“Good night.”

Barok walked away without another word. It was frustrating that, once again, he couldn’t tell Kazuma about those feelings he carried… But it was fine: he would have another chance. Besides, the memories of that day would stay with him, always.

He hadn’t even reached the end of the street before he heard hasty steps following him.

“Barok, wait…”

He turned around, seeing Kazuma a few steps away from him. Their gazes met. Kazuma opened his mouth, but no words left it. Something in expression, however, felt familiar to Barok.

No words were spoken, and yet, it couldn’t be clearer. Kazuma closed that distance, and Barok opened his arms, taking him into a tight embrace. Kazuma hugged his waist, resting his face on Barok’s chest; Barok placed an arm around him, bringing his hand to Kazuma’s head, holding him close.

For a long time, neither of them could let go. Barok was the one to finally move away, after feeling Kazuma shiver in his arms. “Are you cold?”

“A little.”

Barok reached for Kazuma’s face, cupping his cheek with a hand. Kazuma closed his eyes, seeming to appreciate the gesture. Without giving himself the time to hesitate, Barok leaned forward, placing a kiss on his forehead.

“Shall we go back inside?” asked Barok.

“Yes…” said Kazuma. “London nights are too cold for me.”

That comment made Barok smile fondly. “You’ll never get used to it, will you?”

Kazuma laughed. “Maybe someday.”

He placed an arm around Barok’s waist, and Barok did the same to his shoulders, keeping him close as they walked back inside the 221B apartment, for Iris’ clear delight.