Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Sounds like I was quite the badass," Eri mused, pinching her chin as she absorbed the convoluted tale Toshiro had just woven.

"I'd say more headstrong, but that's an accurate depiction," Toshiro retorted with a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

"Well, If you put it like that then it would make it appear you've developed more of a spine," Eri chuckled at her own jest. "To be completely honest, you seem far more confident than the person I saw on TV just a month ago."

"I had to grow one after dealing with all the phan- no, the kids, and Erina, or rather, you showed me that. Here you go," Toshiro said, presenting a cup of tea and a steak before her.

"Mhmm, surprisingly, for the price, it's not half bad, and the tea is tolerable," Eri commented, taking a sip. "Sadly, I'm more of a coffee gal, but this isn't terrible."

"The steaks a result of my skills, but I see you're not a big fan of tea," Toshiro remarked.

"Unfortunately, I'm more inclined towards coffee, but I can still appreciate it," Eri shrugged, settling back into the couch.

"You know, there's this fantastic café that's strangely tied to the story I just shared," Toshiro mentioned.

"Don't tell me that's the reason behind your disappearance," Eri quipped, noticing Toshiro scratching his head in reflex.

"Not exactly. I probably shouldn't have skimmed over that detail. Were you worried?" Toshiro inquired, genuine concern evident in his tone.

"Yeah, you vanished without a trace. Considering your current situation compared to what I could see, I thought... you'd given up, so to speak," Eri confessed, her gaze shifting shyly to her lap.

"I'm s- no, thank you for your concern. But you played a significant role in helping me pull through," Toshiro said, a soft smile gracing his lips at the thought of her contribution to his success.

Eri's face took on a slight flush as she focused on devouring her steak, down to the last crumb, before finally mustering the courage to ask for his number.

"Let me put it in for you," Toshiro offered, reaching across the table for her phone.

As he inputted his number, Eri's eyes lit up, remembering what was on her home screen. "Oh, I had no idea you still had this picture," he exclaimed, her face flushing pink once more, though Toshiro was too engrossed in the photo to notice.

"When did we even take this?" he wondered aloud.

"After you agreed to tutor me after school hours," Eri reminded him, feeling a warmth spread through her at the memory.

Toshiro then proceeded to regale Eri with finer details about his journey. "So, that's the complete story, although it's quite unbelievable," he concluded.

"I don't know why you'd think I wouldn't believe you, especially with the confirmed existence of the phantom thieves, but you've got to introduce me sometime," Eri replied, giving him a cheery smile.

"I promise I will, though it might be difficult right now," Toshiro admitted, his voice tinged with disappointment. "Especially with my current situation involving the police."

"And their leader being locked up," Eri added, snapping her fingers in disappointment at the missed opportunity.

"Well, I hope he gets out soon. A courageous kid who fights for good deserves to be free. I just wish I could fight like that too," Eri remarked wistfully, punching the air twice.

"What you're doing right now helps just as much, Eri. It even pays," Eri felt flattered by his words, teasing him by tousling his hair.

"Who knew you were such a charmer?" Eri teased, letting out a giddy laugh.

"Those weren't my exact intentions," Toshiro replied, a waving his hands awkwardly.

"But you're not denying it," Eri countered, her grin becoming mischievous.

”I-“ Toshiro gave up on a rebuttal, Letting out an audible sigh and shifted the conversation elsewhere. "About the stories you published about me over the months, I didn't know you were keeping up with me."

"I had to; you're going to be a future prime minister, and besides, you're my best friend," Eri confessed, the room falling into a momentary silence as Toshiro pondered her words, a hint of guilt in his gaze.

"I recognize that look. Come on, don't feel guilty. Besides, I know you were busy," Eri reassured Toshiro using a white lie truth is his absence gnawed at her for years but that was fine, right?

"How about this: you can make it up to me by taking me out," Eri suggested, her tone light yet meaningful. Toshiro, initially confused by the small request, taking considering the woman before him, Toshiro realized its significance It held to her.

"Okay, then. It's a date," Toshiro agreed, feeling a blush rise to his cheeks at the mere thought of uttering the word "date," which didn't go unnoticed by Eri.

As Toshiro's blush deepened, Eri found herself lost in thoughts about Marie. She wondered if Toshiro harbored any ounce of love for her, or if it was the other way around. But as she recalled previous committees, their lack of common ground, Toshiro's avoidance of her gaze, and the discomfort evident in his expression whenever she mentioned his name, she concluded that there wasn't any love like that between them. Still, she believed Toshiro deserved to be treated with care, unlike the repulsive treatment he received from Marie.

"Did you ever find actual love after high school?" Eri inquired.

“Did you?” Toshiro diverted the question back, his curiosity evident.

"Can't say I did. Let's just say I felt like I was being held back," Eri admitted, a hint of melancholy in her tone.

"I seem to share your sentiments, before and even after the sudden engagement," Toshiro remarked, reflecting on his own experiences.

Eri glanced at the clock, realizing she had already taken up enough of Toshiro's time and space. With a resigned sigh, she rose from her seat. "I think it's time for me to head home, wouldn't you say so?" she suggested, signaling the end of their conversation.

"Not really, but in that case, allow me to get you home," Toshiro offered, though the thought of seeing her off at a train station twisted his heart in anguish.

"I'd actually like that," Eri admitted upbeat.

Upon arriving in front of her house, Eri surprised Toshiro by inviting him inside for a moment. He obliged, curious about her sudden invitation. As he observed her home, he was abruptly presented with Eri proudly holding out a white teddy bear dressed in a suit that eerily resembled him.

"I want you to have it," she proclaimed, a genuine smile gracing her lips.

"Now I feel bad for not having one for you," Toshiro remarked, feeling a pang of guilt.

"Your gift can be accepting it," Eri insisted.

"It would be callous of me to decline," Toshiro conceded, taking the teddy bear from her hands and inspecting the design, was it tailor made? Inside the chest pocket he found a flag that read "Justice."

"Thank you, Eri. I guess that's all you had planned here," Toshiro said, though it became evident to Eri that there was more she yearned to accomplish as he approached the door to leave. "Let's meet up next week, that s-"

Before he could finish his sentence, Eri had latched herself onto Toshiro's backside, surprising him with her sudden display of affection. "Three days, I'm free in three days," she announced eagerly.

"I-I'll make time for you, I promise," Toshiro replied, his voice trembling with emotion, his face flushing red.

As Eri removed her arms from his chest, Toshiro noticed she wasn't holding her cane. Immediately, he picked it up for her, surprised by her ability to move without it.

"I didn't know you were able to walk without it," he remarked, impressed.

"I am, it's just slower and harder to stand, but that's beside the point," Eri explained, brushing off the compliment.

Toshiro's thoughts echoed internally, wondering about the intensity of Eri's actions and what it meant. "Damn, if she was able to lunge at you without a cane, how much did she want to do that, and why?" he pondered silently.

"Get home safe, Toshiro. Bye," Eri waved at him until he was out of sight, before sinking back onto her couch, her hand draped over her forehead in exhaustion.

After an extended period, she sensed a tangible impact on her own personal life, and the feeling was exhilarating. With a sense of empowerment, she reached for her calendar and firmly circled Monday, marking it as a day to prioritize above all else.

Chapter Text

The continuation of the previous chapter taking place mainly at an amusement park.

On the third day since she'd last laid eyes on Toshiro, Eri's energy surged beyond its usual bounds, practically urging her to leap out of bed with fervor.

As she embarked on her morning routine, thoughts swirled in her mind about the perfect setting for their upcoming date. A mall felt uninspiring, and the idea of idly sitting on a park bench lacked allure. An amusement park, however, sparked intrigue. Yet, Eri paused, pondering whether Toshiro would share her enthusiasm. After all, he'd navigated through inner turmoil, emerging stronger than before.

If she could Eri wanted to sweep away any lingering trauma Toshiro might harbor from his previous amusement park ordeal. She vowed to craft a day brimming with tranquility, a stark contrast to his past experiences.

When noon arrived, the sound of a ring echoed through Eri's home. "I'll be right there!" she called out from the living room, making her way to the door as quick as she could where she found Toshiro, impeccably dressed yet casually so.

"You look quite stunning, Eri," Toshiro remarked with a grin as Eri adjusted her turtleneck, of which she seemed to have an endless supply of.

Returning his smile, Eri accepted Toshiro's extended glove hand, allowing him to escort her to his car. Once settled inside, she pushed aside her own preferences and asked where he wanted to go, only for him to turn the question back on her.

"Since you insist, let's head to the amusement park," Eri after that was said she saw a lump form in his throat, imagining herself jotting down his reaction as if she was in an interview.

"If you're not keen on that, we can choose something else," she quickly added, sensing his hesitation.

"No, I'm sure it'll be enjoyable," Toshiro replied with a forced smile.

As Toshiro attempted to start the car, it sputtered and stalled, prompting a muttered curse from him.

"It's okay, we can take the train," Eri suggested, stepping out of the car.

"Wait! I'll call a taxi," Toshiro's voice wavered slightly in urgency.

"It's more cost-efficient to walk," Eri insisted, meeting his gaze firmly. "Call a mechanic and join me for a stroll. We'll be fine."

Reluctantly, Toshiro dialed a mechanic as instructed before joining Eri on their journey to the nearest station.

Approaching the station, Toshiro noticed a small group of people beginning to amass and take photos of them.

"Perhaps we should take a different route," he suggested.

"No, this could be good publicity," Eri countered, though she admitted, "The constant camera flashes are a bit overwhelming right now."

Heeding her words, Toshiro politely asked the onlookers to disperse, inadvertently generating even more positive publicity.

As they approached the station, Toshiro couldn't help but notice the subtle signs of Eri's nerves: the fidgeting hand, the twitching of her face. Concern etched across his features, he halted their progress, gently taking her wrist in his gloved hand, a silent reassurance.

"Eri," he began, but she cut him off with a huff, a mixture of frustration and resignation evident in her tone. "I shouldn't have insisted on coming to the station. But, well, here we are."

"I thought having you here would calm my nerves, but all it did was amplify the effects," Eri remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of understanding and disappointment in herself.

Toshiro listened as Eri expressed her regret, her words tinged with relief at having him by her side. He felt a surge of admiration for her bravery, her determination to face her fears head-on.

"You've shown incredible courage, Eri," he murmured, sincerity lacing his words. "But perhaps it's time for well-deserved help."

Eri considered his suggestion, torn between the desire for independence and the need for support. "I'll think about it," she replied, uncertainty coloring her voice.

As the train pulled into the station, Eri's hand trembled uncontrollably, her cane slipping from her grasp. Without hesitation, Toshiro interlocked his fingers with hers, providing the stability she needed to regain her composure.

"Are you alright to board?" he inquired, concern etched in his features.

"I-I can manage," Eri stammered, Toshiro not being able to recall if he ever saw he like this before.

With a steady hand, Toshiro guided her onto the train, silently replacing her cane with his presence. As they found their seats, he released her hand, relieved to see the tension in her fingers ease.

Eri quickly reverted to her usual composed self, her focus shifting back to their date. Toshiro marveled at her ability to adapt, wondering if it was a byproduct of her profession or simply her innate resilience.

As they reached their destination and disembarked, Toshiro promptly paid for both of them, not giving Eri a chance to dig her wallet out of her pocket completely. The sight of the amusement park ignited excitement in both of them. Eri's eyes settled on the merry-go-round nearby.

"How about starting with something slow like that?" Eri suggested, her simple charm infectious enough to erase any lingering stress from Toshiro's mind.

At the merry-go-round, Toshiro lifted Eri onto a horse and chose one nearby for himself. Though it was relaxing for Eri, she soon craved something faster. Working her way up through the increasingly speedy rides all the way to the roller coaster when up there she noticed Toshiro hesitation.

"Are you sure about this?" Toshiro asked, attempting to back out, albeit futilely.

"I'm more than sure. You, on the other hand, look squeamish, and we haven't even gotten on yet," Eri remarked, teasingly.

"Okay, I'll be less of a wimp, but don’t say I didn’t warn you," Toshiro replied, trying to muster up some bravery.

"Ready?" Eri asked, stretching her neck.

"I'm ready. Just give me your hand; they don’t allow extra items on the ride," Toshiro replied, taking Eri's hand as she set her cane aside, leaning on him for support.

As they soared through loops and drops, Toshiro couldn't help but recall his mother's love for coaster rides, which left her exhausted each time. To his surprise, Eri inhabited the same love from the looks of it, screaming in excitement with her arms up, reflexively making him do the same.

"So, who was it again that doubted whom?" Eri said, a mischievous grin on her lips.

"You might have been right, but neither of us handled that loop particularly well," Toshiro remarked, recalling their simultaneous shrieks.

"I guess neither of us won in that department. But I know how we can settle the score," Eri suggested.

"And how's that?" Toshiro inquired, already sensing her proposal.

"The big drop, perhaps?" Eri hinted.

"Who am I to refuse?" Toshiro replied with a grin.

"Now that you're in on it, let's up the ante with some stakes – no pun intended," Eri suggested, referring to the food stalls they had passed earlier.

"So, whoever screams loses and has to buy food?" Toshiro clarified.

"Correctomundo, Toshi," Eri confirmed, draping her arm around his shoulder.

As they exited the ride, Toshiro couldn't help but feel his wallet bracing itself for impact. "You put up a good fight, even if it was only for 24 seconds," Eri said, barely containing her laughter.

"I can't believe this. I've seen and felt worse, you know," Toshiro replied, feeling a tad embarrassed.

"Okay, okay, let's just eat now," Eri said, easing the tension with a smile.

Approaching the food stand, Toshiro cast a sidelong glance at Eri, curious about her cravings. Eri, true to form, launched into a detailed list of meat-based delicacies, while Toshiro settled for the classic comfort of Takoyaki.

"You haven't changed a bit in your carnivorous ways," Toshiro remarked with a grin, amused by Eri's gusto.

Eri chuckled between mouthfuls, "Old habits die hard, I suppose. After all, I'm still your senpai."

As Toshiro leisurely indulged in his Takoyaki, Eri swiftly polished off her meal and broached a serious topic.

"I've reached a decision," Eri announced, her tone carrying a weight of significance.

"About what?" Toshiro inquired, intrigued by Eri's declaration, his eyes flickering with curiosity.

“Let’s go to the Ferris wheel, I’ll tell you there,” Eri said, stringing Toshiro along to her desired atmosphere, the gentle swaying of the carriage adding to the suspense.

On the Ferris wheel, Eri took a seat across from Toshiro, himself still not finished with the takoyaki, the soft hum of the machinery providing a soothing backdrop.

“So what did you want to say," Toshiro asked, his anticipation evident as they rose higher into the night sky.

"Earlier, you hinted at the idea of me seeking some much-needed help," Eri explained, her gaze steady, illuminated by the glow of the city below.

"I did mention it. So, what have you decided?" Toshiro prompted, genuinely interested in Eri's resolution, his voice carrying over the gentle creaking of the carriage.

"Just from spending today with you, I've realized how much I enjoy your company. So, if you're willing, I want that same companionship," Eri confessed, her words laden with sincerity, the cool breeze of the evening air stirring her hair.

"I'd be more than happy to spend time with you here and there," Toshiro replied warmly, his eyes reflecting his genuine fondness for Eri, the distant laughter of other riders echoing faintly in the background.

"That's not exactly what I envisioned," Eri said, a hint of pink coloring her cheeks, the soft glow of the Ferris wheel's lights casting a warm halo around them. "Close your eyes. It'll help you understand."

Intrigued, Toshiro complied, momentarily forgetting about the Takoyaki in his mouth until Eri deftly plucked it away.

"Lean forward," Eri instructed, her voice soft yet determined, the gentle swaying of the carriage adding to the intimacy of the moment.

"Why?" he asked, unable to hide his curiosity, the anticipation palpable between them.

"Just trust me," Eri replied, her own heart pounding with anticipation, the distant sounds of carnival music drifting up to them from below.

Toshiro complied, wondering about Eri's intentions, his pulse quickening with each passing second.

As their lips met, time seemed to stand still, and Eri felt a rush of warmth flooding through her veins, the soft hum of the Ferris wheel fading into the background as they lost themselves in the moment. She poured all her emotions into the kiss, savoring the closeness and the connection they shared, the city lights twinkling below like stars in the night sky.

When they finally parted, Eri's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she realized he barely consented, her mind racing with a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, guilt, and a tinge of fear. She hoped she hadn't overstepped any boundaries, especially given their long history together.

Across the table, Toshiro's grin was like a beacon of reassurance amidst Eri's inner turmoil, his easygoing demeanor and playful remark lifting some of the weight off her shoulders. She couldn't help but smile back, grateful for his understanding and acceptance, the gentle sway of the Ferris wheel carrying them higher into the night sky.

"I guess I like your vision," Toshiro's words echoed in Eri's mind, filling her with warmth and a sense of belonging, the city below stretching out before them like a tapestry of lights. It was a simple phrase, yet it carried a world of meaning, reassuring Eri that their bond was still strong despite the unexpected turn of events.

As the Ferris wheel began its descent, Eri suggested they head home, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness beneath her practical tone. Deep down, she longed to prolong their time together, cherishing every moment spent in Toshiro's company. But she also knew they had limited time as the night was wearing on.

The train ride back to Eri's house was filled with a comfortable silence, punctuated by stolen glances and shared smiles, each moment deepening the connection between them.

Back at Eri’s house, Toshiro realized the mechanic still had his car, and checking his phone, he saw it was already midnight. Sensing his predicament, Eri extended an invitation for him to stay the night.

"I'd be honored to," Toshiro replied graciously, bowing in jest.

"Enough with the formalities, come in," Eri said, her tone urgent yet inviting.

Inside, Toshiro settled on the couch, expressing his gratitude for her hospitality.

"I'll be sleeping here tonight. Thank you for your kindness," Toshiro said, intending to be polite.

Eri chuckled softly, "Nice try. Come upstairs. We're sleeping there," her voice betraying a hint of vulnerability.

Assisting Eri up the stairs, Toshiro accompanied her to her room. After turning off the light, Eri crawled into bed and gestured for Toshiro to join her.

As they lay side by side, Eri embraced him tightly, her emotions bubbling to the surface. "This feels right. After all this time, I'm just glad I have you back. I was so afraid I'd never get to see you again," she confessed, her voice choked with tears.

Toshiro hugged her close, offering words of comfort and understanding. "Eri, you mean the world to me, in fact you’re the pillar of strength in my life. I'm regretful for the time we lost, but I'm here now, I promise I won’t up and disappear like last time," he reassured her, his voice gentle yet firm.

Feeling a sense of peace wash over her, Eri nestled closer to Toshiro, her heart overflowing with love and gratitude. In that moment, wrapped in each other's arms, they found solace in the warmth of their shared affection.

"Let's get some rest," Toshiro suggested softly, pressing a tender kiss to Eri's forehead. "We have a busy day ahead of us."

With a contented sigh, Eri nestled against him, feeling safe and cherished in his embrace and fell to sleep.