"Akira… Akira…"

Akira's eyes took a moment to adjust to the brightness. Slowly, he began to realize where he was.

"Ladies and gentleman, thank you for riding with us today. We will be arriving in Shibuya shortly. This is the last stop for this line. Please transfer here for all subway lines. The doors to your left will open."

"Good, you're awake. I was worried I was going to have to make a scene." The voice was soft but clear in his ears. He raised his head, rolling his neck before turning to the person beside him. "Good morning."

"Mornin' pillow," he responded while grinning.

Shiho rolled her eyes. "Maybe I should have made a scene…"

"By giving me a wake-up-kiss?"

"By pushing you off the seat." Akira huffed and slid his hand into Shiho's. Their fingers interlocked and Shiho's grip on his hand tightened. He smiled but wasn't met with her own smile. Instead, she was looking into his eyes rather intensely. He tilted his head and that seemed to snap her out of it. "Oh, sorry. I'm just not used to seeing you without glasses. To think they were fake this whole time…"

"Ugh, you two make me sick…" Akira shook his bag making the cat inside yelp.

He smiled at Shiho, closing his eyes before feeling a sudden sharp jolt against his forehead. His eyes opened and he rubbed his forehead, pouting at the glaring Shiho. "Ow…"

Her finger moved down and poked his chest lightly. "Don't go back to sleep. It was your idea to leave for Tokyo so early in the morning."

"And it was your idea to come with me when you could have come a week ago." They were already a week into their summer vacation but Akira had to delay his trip. Shiho was willing to stay behind with him, which he was very grateful for.

When the train halted, the two began making their way to the next line that would take them to Yongen-Jaya, where all their friends were waiting.

Akira noticed Shiho's fist tighten around her bag straps. "Nervous?"

"…A little. There's going to be a lot of people. Let's see… there's Ann and Sakamoto-kun of course, and Kitagawa-kun, Niijima-senpai, Sakura-san and Sakura-chan, and Okumura-senpai. Am… I missing anyone?"

"Makoto's sister might be there too," Morgana helpfully supplied.

"Makoto's sister might be there. I don't think she's as busy as she used to be as a prosecutor." Shiho nodded, though not really understanding. She doesn't know much about the Niijima's and it was Akira's place to tell her the details. "But for the most part, this is a PT reunion."

"…Won't I just be in the way?"

Akira shook his head. "You know, you're practically the reason we even formed in the first place. Before you jumped, Ryuji and I were hesitant to go through with our plan. But you steeled our resolve and even brought Ann to us."

It was a touchy subject, mentioning his girlfriend's attempted suicide, but after everything that's happened she's become much more resilient. Mostly when talked about by Ann and Akira, who rarely bring it up as is.

"Oh… I'm glad I was able to help in some way." Her face grew complex, clearly not sure how to feel about that.

"Hey, do you want to stop by the underground mall? Maybe buy something for Ann?" Shiho's eyes lit up and Akira stopped himself from laughing. He hoped the rest of them wouldn't be too impatient.

"Um, you should probably let go…" Akira glanced over to Shiho, who was looking down at their connected hands. The café was approaching fast.

Akira slowly released her hand, dragging his along hers until their fingertips touched, before dropping it. "It feels like I never left."

"I'm not going to lie… but this area seems kind of shady."

"It's just dark and enclosed. Maybe a couple of drunks here and there. But usually no one too bad."

"I guess you did live here for a year. I'll take your word for it. But if one of these drunk people get near me…"

"I'll sic Morgana on them."

"What!?" The cat shouted, popping out of his bag and onto his shoulder.

"I was going to say hit them where it really hurts… but I suppose that works."

"…"

"Wow, Shiho might be as bad as Haru…" Morgana muttered and Akira dumbly nodded, before grinning.

"Well, shall we?" The two were in front of the door. The moment they open it, their presence will be known thanks to the bell. Akira couldn't wait any longer and pushed the door forward, Shiho following him closely.

There was a lack of a chime as he did so. Looking up, he noticed the bell that rang whenever someone closed the door was missing. That's a first…

Looking across the café, he could see a familiar group sitting at a booth, a bunch of playing cards scattered across the table. Sitting at the counter were some more familiar faces chatting.

No one noticed them.

Akira sighed softly before walking quietly to one of the booths. He stood above the blonde male, looking down at the cards in his hand. Everyone at the booth were too focused on their cards to notice it seemed.

Looking back down at Ryuji's cards, he was genuinely shocked at how bad his hand was. He knew Ryuji's luck when it came to card games was bad, but this bad?

…Oh wait, maybe if the next card that flips over is an 8 of clubs, and Ryuji swaps that 3 of diamonds...

There it is.

He leaned down, pointing at the 3 of diamonds. Ryuji's head tilted. He pointed to the 8 on the table.

Ryuji shrugged and didn't do anything.

Akira resisted slapping the back of his head.

Then, as if a lightbulb went off in his head, Ryuji shouted, "Ohhhhhh! Waitwaitwait, that's mine!"

"What? Too late, you missed your chance, cheater. You'd never have noticed that without Akira," the blonde across from Ryuji said, further amusing Akira.

"What!? I definitely would have! Ain't that right, Akira?"

"Akira?" Makoto looked up from her own hand, and Akira was impressed that something managed to get Makoto's attention with how engrossed she was.

"Akira!" Everyone at that moment stood up, cards flying everywhere as they all gathered around him.

"I tried to see where you were by tracking your phone, but you turned it off!" Futaba complained, stomping her feet in mock anger before turning to face the kitchen. "Sojiro, Akira's here! And you didn't put back up the bell!"

"My bad, my bad." Appearing from the kitchen was Akira's guardian of the year. "Good to see you, kid."

Akira nodded, before looking back at the entrance. "I'm not alone though."

"SHIHO!" Like a blur, Ann raced at him and practically jumped Shiho.

"Ah, Ann!" Shiho patted Ann on the back while her other hand was full.

"Heh, glad to see nothing's changed." Morgana jumped out of Akira's bag and onto a table where everyone could see him.

"Uh, didn't Ann like visit a week ago or something?" Ryuji mumbled.

"Mona-chan! How are you doing?" Haru had bent down to stroke Morgana's back. "I bet it must be nice living in the country after being here so long."

"Ugh, it's been so boring! I can't wait until we can come back here. I never thought I'd miss the attic…"

"That bad, huh?" Ryuji chuckled.

"I don't know… It looks quite beautiful from what Akira's showed me. I would live the chance to see it in person."

"Oh, it's great, for like an hour."

Akira shook his head and turned to Makoto who seemed to be patiently waiting for him. "It's good to see you again."

"It's good to be back." Akira shook when an arm was thrown around his shoulder.

"We got two months with our guy back, let's not waste it, yeah?" Ryuji exclaimed before being met with a loud chorus of agreement.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Haru spoke, walking towards the two girls by the entrance, where Ann was still clinging to Shiho who tried to push her away. "We're glad to have you with us, Suzui-san."

Shiho gave up trying to push Ann away. "Please, just Shiho is fine. And thank you." She looked over at Ann who now just had her arm wrapped around hers. A few tugs, but Shiho couldn't pull her arm out. "When did your grip become so strong?"

Ryuji himself released Akira and also approached the two girls. "Long time no see, Suzui."

"Sakamoto-kun… your hair is still blonde?"

Ryuji shrugged, giving her his usual friendly grin. "Eh, this is me now. You should give it a try, then you and Ann would be matching!"

"No!" Ann shouted, finally releasing Shiho to march forward. "Shiho's not dying her hair!"

"Shiho with blonde hair…" Akira muttered, looking intensely at Shiho.

"Akira…" Ann warned.

"I can't see it." Akira shrugged, and Ann nodded firmly.

"Shiho's perfect as is."

"That's true."

The two nodded towards each other in mutual agreement while Shiho placed a hand on her head in exasperation, and also in embarrassment.

"Hey kid, if you're just going to stand there come help me out in the back."

"Sure thing, boss." Akira rubbed his hands excitedly. This would be the first time in months that he gets to use Leblanc's coffee beans again, and the first time he'd get to serve his girlfriend his own blend.

"Hey, Akira, can you stop taking boring pictures of scenery at your home and take some, I dunno, selfies or something?" Futaba asked, eating her share of curry at the counter.

"It'd be cool to actually see how you're doin', dude." Ryuji said, his elbows on the counter.

"I can't imagine taking selfies with the aspect that someone's always watching…" Makoto said from one of the booths.

"You rarely take selfies as is, Makoto," Ann pointed out, across from Makoto and pouting next to Shiho.

"And if my phone was bugged, I would certainly never take them."

"Why not? You look good in everything, Mako-chan. You have nothing to be ashamed of," Haru said, sipping her coffee elegant. "Perfect as usual, Akira."

Sojiro scoffed. "I wouldn't say perfect, but definitely a huge improvement. You've been practicing, huh?"

"Can we not have this discussion right now?" Makoto suddenly exclaimed from her booth, leaving Ann in a giggling fit and Shiho doing her best not to let loose a chuckle.

From the booth behind the girls, Yusuke spoke up. "I too am perplexed. You and Akira are the only ones who don't take pictures often despite the beauty you two hold. It is a disappointment, putting it mildly."

Akira began brewing another cup. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to let them know. "If it makes you feel better, I've taken plenty of selfies."

"Huh!? I would have been notified the moment your camera app gets activated!"

"…Futaba-chan, we need to have a talk about privacy." Makoto glared at Futaba from the booth, making Futaba yelp and face away from her.

"Eep! Makoto's in Queen mode!"

Ryuji sighed. "Nah, that's just her being serious. Which is pro'lly worse."

Haru looked at Akira curiously. "How do you take the selfies then, Akira? Did you get a new phone?"

"Nah, just had a partner in crime." He flashed a smirk, finishing brewing the final cup. "Pass this over to Shiho, if you would."

"Oh right, you two hang out often, huh?" Ryuji said, about to take the cup before Futaba smacked his hand.

"You'd drop it."

"What!? Would not!"

"Would too."

Haru stood and took the cup before anyone could say anything and went over to the girl's booth. Makoto moved over so Haru could sit after she handed Shiho the cup. "I think you'll enjoy it. Akira's blend is truly something."

"So I've heard." Akira watched on from afar as Shiho quickly raised the cup to her lips. To the others, except maybe Ann, it would seem like she was eager, but Akira caught her blush. He leaned back, satisfied before returning his attention to Futaba and Ryuji.

"You two can stop anytime now."

The two indeed stopped, and Ryuji turned himself to face the booths. "So what pictures do ya got in there, Suzui?"

Akira looked on in amusement as Shiho didn't seem to hear him, completely occupied drinking the coffee. It was almost like she was savouring every drop.

"Uh, Suzui? Earth to Suzui? Ann, get your girlfriend's attention for me." However, even Ann didn't hear Ryuji, staring intently at Shiho. The café went silent as no one was sure what was going on.

When Shiho placed her cup down, the sound of glass touching the table echoed. "That was really good. I'd like to try… Um, Ann, everyone? Are you… all right?"

Ann snapped out of it, still dumbfounded. "Y-yeah, perfectly fine. I've just never seen you like that before…"

"Huh?"

"That was breathtaking…" Ann and Shiho turned to see Yusuke who was on the seat on his knees, a sketchbook in his hand. "A photograph alone could not capture the elegance, grace, comfort, relax essence that you emitted Suzui-san."

"O-oh… Okay… Um, as I was saying, I would like to try Sakura-san's blend. To compare."

Sojiro, who was in the kitchen until now, surprised Akira when he placed a hand on his shoulder. "You want to taste the true veteran's brew, huh? Smart girl. Also, Boss is just fine." Akira scratched the back of his head. Welp. At least I got her impressed for a whole minute.

"You drink coffee so proper-like… I'm kind of envious," Makoto said, smiling at Shiho.

"I think you're exaggerating…"

"No way! All we need to do is give you a dress and you'd fit right in with the higher class!" Futaba exclaimed.

"I feel like anyone could wear an expensive dress and fit in," Ryuji mumbled.

Akira took a good look at Shiho and began to imagine her in a dress. Red? Blue? No, probably green. Probably strapless too. And her upper back would be exposed. Or is that too much for her? She might prefer a more modest dress. So maybe not strapless. And the dress would reach her knees. Maybe even farther? But her legs were beautiful it'd be a shame to hide them.

"What are you thinking about?" Futaba asked him and he immediately grinned to push down the oncoming blush.

"Shiho in a dress, of course."

"W-what!?" Shiho blurted out. Akira's grin never wavered while Ann began looking at Shiho once again.

"Ooh, maybe red? No, blue… no, maybe green?" Akira was happy to hear Ann had similar thoughts as well. He could leave it to her to pick Shiho's perfect dress, whenever she'll need a dress at least.

"No, definitely black," Haru declared and Akira began to see it. If Haru and Ann team up, the results would be glorious.

"Aren't we getting sidetracked…? Isn't this supposed to be your reunion?" She shot Ann a glare and then quickly sent it his way.

Thankfully, Sojiro interrupted at the perfect time, walking over to their table and setting down a cup of coffee in front of Shiho. "Here you are. Same beans as the rookie over there. Time for you to taste what real coffee is like. It's on the house, of course."

Akira knew it was over. He could smell the coffee from behind the counter. So, he turned his attention to the cat sitting on the same table Yusuke was sitting at. "Isn't it nice to be back?"

"It sure is…" Morgana yawned. "But check out Yusuke's sketch!"

Akira walked over to their booth and over at Yusuke who didn't seem to notice him. Looking down at his sketchbook, was a beautiful sketch of Shiho holding her cup of coffee with both hands and Ann looking at her infatuated.

"Not bad, Yusuke."

"…Thank you."

That was the only reaction he got out of him as Yusuke continued sketching, occasionally turning his sketchbook. Akira switched his attention over to Morgana. "Do you want to check out the attic?"

Morgana's head turned towards the stairs leading to the attic. "…I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to."

"Me too." Morgana hopped off the table and began running up the stairs. "We'll be back in a second," he told them before following Morgana.

When they reached the attic, the two looked at it, wide-eyed. Nothing had changed. It seemed Sojiro even dusted the room for today. "I thought Sojiro moved my stuff to his house," Akira said, walking over to the shelf filled with various gifts.

"Maybe he moved them back because he knew you were a sucker for nostalgia?"

"Like you're one to talk."

"…Remember this desk?"

"Of course. I still remember when you would spend hours just making a single lockpick."

"…Why do you have to remember that?" Akira looked above the desk, and sure enough his crane game prizes were still there.

"Oh, the plant's still alive. Somehow." Akira turned around, and sure enough the plant he had been caring for last year was still standing tall. "Looks like it was recently given some nutrients too."

"Oh, that's because of me." From the stairs the rest of their friends began to pop in, except Yusuke. "I remember you told me about a plant you were caring for and I thought it'd be a shame if something were to happen to it with you gone, so I've taken the liberty to take care of it!"

"Thanks, Haru." Akira really was surprised. Haru came out of her way just to take care of his plant? Well, and to probably get some tips from Sojiro as well. Still, it was really nice of her and he knew those nutrients weren't cheap.

"Don't mention it. It also gives me an excuse to stop by every so often."

"It really is an attic…" Shiho muttered, walking around. "It's much cleaner than I expected."

"Right?" Ann exclaimed, walking over and crashing on the sofa. "It feels like forever since we gathered here.

"Tell me about it," Ryuji said while stretching before glaring at Ann who was lying down on the sofa. "Don't hog the whole sofa!"

"No need to yell, jeez." Ann sat up but before Ryuji could sit, Makoto quickly stole the spot, with Morgana hopping in between the two.

"What the heck!?"

"Oh, Suzui-san, if you want to sit with Ann, I-"

"It's all right, Niijima-senpai." Shiho politely shook her head. She'd feel bad making Makoto get up now.

Morgana looked around the attic. "Weren't there a lot more chairs before?"

"Oh, Sojiro got rid of them," Futaba said nonchalantly, grabbing the only chair left and taking a seat. "They were old he said."

"Really? Seemed fine to me," Ryuji said, leaning against the wall next to Ann.

"At least the stool's still here," Haru said, pulling it out from under the desk.

"And my bed." Akira took a seat on the bed, discreetly patting it so Shiho would take a seat next to him. Shiho eyed him suspiciously before sitting down.

"Man, why do I got to be the one standing…? Isn't there a box or something somewhere?" Ryuji began looking around before giving up. He decided to sit on the table that Akira's CRT was on, making Akira and Futaba shake their heads while Makoto touched her forehead with her finger.

Akira heard slight movement next to him and noticed Shiho had shuffled closer. They weren't touching, but it was close enough. "That reminds me…" Everyone turned to Makoto. "You said Suzui-san's phone has your pictures?"

Haru clapped her hands. "Oh that's right! I'd love to see what you two were up to in the country!"

Akira knew they didn't take any pictures incriminating their relationship so he nodded and Shiho unlocked her phone before holding it out for someone to grab.

Haru quickly took it and the rest of the group gathered around Haru. The rest of the afternoon was filled with a lot of "aww!"

It was late, and everyone had gone their way. Akira was currently at the station with Ann and Shiho to see them off. "It's like a dream come true, having you two here with me."

"I know. Your friends are as nice as you two said."

"I couldn't ask for better friends."

"And you fit in perfectly, Shiho!" Ann exclaimed, hugging the girl affectionately. "It's kind of surreal how well you two mix. You're like best friends. Which is great for me, having my two best friends be each other's best friends!"

Akira and Shiho shared a glance, their eyes talking. Shiho nodded, and Akira attempted to resist grinning. Attempted.

"I'd say we're closer than best friends."

"Hm? What do you mean?"

In an instant, Akira pulled Shiho towards him, delivering a swift kiss to her forehead before spinning her around to face Ann again.

There was a moment of silence, with Ann's mouth open. Not gaping wide, but open enough to look ridiculous.

"H-huh?" Ann had barely moved an inch and the couple could see her brain begin to fry. "WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTT!?"

And thanks to Ann, they had to explain to station security why, exactly, a teenaged girl was screaming at the top of her lungs.

Akira: WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTT!?

Yusuke: ?

Haru: ?

Makoto: ?

Futaba: ?

Ryuji: Uh, you okay bro?

Ann: SHUT UP AKIRA

Makoto: That both explains it… and doesn't.

Akira: Shiho recorded it

Ann: WHY

Ann: I was NOT ready for that

Ryuji: Ooh, how'd you break Ann?

Ann: Shut up, Ryuji.

Ann: Can I tell them?

Akira: I think it'd be more fun to show them.

Akira: But I don't think anyone could beat your reaction.

Haru: What exactly happened?

Akira: Ann almost got us arrested.

Ann: It was your fault!

Futaba: Ooh, immediate denial!

Ann: It wasn't my fault! Blame Akira and Shiho!

Akira: I'm going to be in Shinjuku tomorrow so don't look for me.

Makoto: I assume you have some catching up to do with others.

Akira: You would be correct.

Akira: I'll always put you guys as my number one priority though.

Ann: And he changes the subject…

Yusuke: Would you say your current emotional state is indescribable, Ann?

Ann: Actually, yes.

Yusuke: Would the drawing of you and Suzui-san make you feel better?

Ann: YES! Is it done?

Akira closes their group chat and tosses his phone somewhere on the bed. It was strange, sleeping in the Sakura residence as opposed to the attic. But he would always welcome an actual bed.

"So, Lady Ann knows?"

"Yeah. We weren't able to record a video, just audio. Didn't want to ruin the moment. I'll show you later." Akira looked down at the foot of his bed. "You know you can hang out with anyone else now that we're back?"

"Oh, I know. And since you're going to Shinjuku tomorrow I'll probably go see Lady Ann and Shiho. But it'd feel wrong leaving you to fend for yourself at night."

Akira rolled his eyes, and began mentally planning the next two months. Most of that time will be with his group, but he'd like some alone time with Shiho in between.

"Are those Ann's?" Was the first question Akira asked when he saw Shiho approach him. She was wearing an off-the-shoulder top paired with shorts.

Shiho nodded. "Ann made me wear them when I mentioned we were hanging out today. That, and she really wanted to see me in something different."

"You look great," Akira complimented. In return, Shiho grabbed his hand, interlocking their fingers and pecked his cheek. It took Akira a second to realize what just happened. "You're awfully bold."

"I was only concerned because I didn't want Ann to get any ideas before we told her. It would have ruined the surprise."

"Agreed." Akira stared a little longer at Shiho, still kind of taken aback by her actions.

Shiho noticed and tilted her head. "Is something wrong?"

"No, everything's great actually. I just didn't expect you to be so comfortable doing that sort of thing in public."

"It doesn't really matter what people say. Besides, I… um, like your… you." Akira watched with delight as the tip of Shiho's ears reddened. "I mean, I like it when you do give me attention. It makes me feel… wanted. You and Ann make me feel wanted. In a good way."

"I only want Suzui Shiho. The whole. I want her kind personality, her strong resolve, her humour, all of it."

Her throat bobbed. "And… I want all of you, too."

"Fireworks?"

Ann nodded her head enthusiastically. "Uh-huh! Remember when we went to see them in our first year? We should go see them this year!"

Shiho glanced towards him and he stuffed his hands in his pockets. "It'd be fun. Counting on the fact that it doesn't rain again."

"Oh… yeah."

"Oh, I remember you telling me about that," Shiho said, giving Ann a sympathetic smile. "I'm glad I wasn't there."

"Oh, we should get our yukatas ready! It'd be boring if I wore the same one again, right?"

"I don't know, it was pretty cute."

"Was it the same blue floral one?"

"The very one."

"I liked that one, though."

"I'm right here you know…" Ann's hands were on her hips and her stance was wide. "Too bad, I'm changing it up this year! You should as well, Shiho."

"Um… I'm afraid I don't have the money for something like that."

"Oh, don't worry, you do."

"I… do?"

Akira froze when Ann turned to face him directly, her smile sickly sweet. "…How much?"

"Don't you think Shiho deserves the best there is?"

"…I might."

"Something that makes spending a large amount of money feel like nothing?"

"Cut to the chase, Ann."

"Akira, no, it's all right-"

"Thirty-thousand yen! We'll give you back the change."

"Thirty-thousand!?" He and Shiho exclaimed together and Ann laughed.

"There's no way a yukata can cost that much," he said, but it seemed like his words fell on deaf ears.

"Well?" Ann held her hand out and stared at him expectantly.

"Ann, I doubt Akira even carries-Akira!?" Akira dug in his pocket and opened his wallet, slamming three bills into Ann's hand. "Why do you have that much money on hand!?"

"I knew you still had some money left over," Ann said with a wink before grabbing Shiho's hand. "Don't worry Akira, I'll make sure Shiho looks stunning."

Akira sighed, his wallet significantly lighter. "I'm counting on you." He was defeated, and Ann knew it well judging by her triumphant look. Though he could tell she was also really excited to dress Shiho up.

"I can't wait! This will be enough for some really nice shoes and a purse to go along with it!" Ann was practically glowing. "I'll call Haru and Makoto! I bet they'd love to help! Oh, and we need to get Futaba a yukata too! We can get Boss to give us the money for that…"

Shiho seemed to finally accept her fate, turning to Akira. "See you later."

Akira nodded, and quickly the two were gone with Ann pulling Shiho across the street to the mall. Sighing, he pulled out his phone to see if there was anyone to hang out with.

Ann: Everything's a go!

Ryuji: What are you talking about?

Yusuke: Are you referring to the upcoming fireworks festival?

Ryuji: After what happened last year?

Makoto: The weather forecast is looking to be in our favor this time.

Futaba: It was so scary.

Futaba: It was just like when they made me try on a swimsuit…

Haru: I'm so excited!

Ryuji: Oh yeah, I think we saw Haru at the one last year. Fancy car and all.

Haru: Really? I didn't see any of you.

Yusuke: Most likely because of how crowded it was.

Makoto: Speaking of, I propose we leave early to find a good viewing spot.

Ryuji: How early is early?

Makoto: 12?

Ryuji: That's too early!

Ann: Quit complaining!

Makoto: You could always go with those girls you saw last year, Ryuji.

Ryuji: What the hell!? You still remember that!?

Makoto: That reminds me, how did your exams go this time?

Futaba: Makoto's savage!

Akira: And I'll be expecting the change.

Ann: Change?

Akira: Money.

Ann: Ohh

Makoto: Wait.

Makoto: Ann, you said he said we were free to keep the change!

Akira: Fun fact: I did not say that.

Haru: I'm deeply sorry, Akira. We may have had a little party afterwards.

Ryuji: Party?

Akira: Little?

Makoto: I feel really bad. I'll pay you back, Akira.

Akira: Wait, how much was left?

Ann: Don't worry about it!

Futaba: Wow, what a cover up…

Yusuke: I wish you could have invited me at the very least. I would have loved to assist helping Futaba and Suzui-san.

Ryuji: Wait, so are we actually going to the fireworks festival this year?

Ann: Did you not get anything from this conversation?

Ryuji: So, Akira and me are the only ones who don't have yukatas.

Futaba: And Mona.

Ryuji: He doesn't count!

"What does he mean I don't count!? Surely there's a yukata out there for cats!" Akira and Futaba, sitting across from each other in Sojiro's living room, laughed at Morgana.

Haru: Aren't there kimonos for cats?

Ann: I think so? Can't say I've looked into that.

Haru: I'll find something, Mona-chan!

"Bless Haru."

"That's our cinnamon roll!" Akira, Futaba, and Morgana laughed together.

Akira: Morgana's grateful.

Makoto: So, it really is just Akira and Ryuji.

Haru: Then I think we know who can help them.

Ryuji: ?

Akira: ?

Yusuke: Allow me to lend my expertise. You two will represent the ideal Japanese man at the festival.

Yusuke: At least, Akira will.

Ryuji: Oh no, no no no. I didn't agree to anything.

Akira: ^

Makoto: I'm really curious to see you two in yukatas.

Ann: Shiho will love it!

"God damnit." Morgana snickered while Akira stared at his phone with a completely blank expression. Meanwhile, Futaba looked between the two of them, confused.

"Someone's whipped…" Morgana whispered.

"Shut it."

Akira: Will you be paying for it?

Ann: Of course not.

Haru: I'd be happy to pay!

Akira: Bless you, Haru.

Makoto: All right, we'll leave this in your hands, Yusuke and Haru.

Ryuji: Dude, aren't we going to fight this!?

Akira: It's 5 against 2 bro.

Ryuji: Damn.

Yusuke: Tomorrow then. I will see you in Shibuya at the underground walkway.

Ryuji: Tomorrow!?

"Looks like you got a long day tomorrow. You should probably get some sleep," Morgana said, watching Akira tuck his phone into his pocket.

"I can't decide what's worse, all the girls or one Inari." Futaba began to imagine Inari helping her out with her yukata and judging by her quick irritated expression, it didn't end well. "Nope. Good luck, Akira."

"Thanks…"

Stares were the norm for Akira. Everyone was always watching his every move. That was why becoming a Phantom Thief, eluding the gaze of others, was so exhilarating. But right now, these were stares unlike any before. These were stares filled with curiosity and desire.

"Dude, I think some girls are checking us out!" Akira felt Ryuji nudging him with his elbow.

"We're already late, come on."

"I'm walking as fast as I can!"

"And you call yourself a track star."

"Not my fault these sandals are such a pain!"

"You're acting like a child… unbefitting of the yukata you don." Akira chuckled before a shiver ran down his spine. He looked to the side, and Ryuji was surprisingly right; there were girls checking them out. And not because they look ridiculous.

Now Akira understood why Yusuke rejected those girls a year prior.

"Ah, there are the girls."

Akira saw them, and before he could properly evaluate each of them, they rushed over to him and Ryuji.

"Wow, they really do look good. Even Ryuji," Ann said, walking around the two and scanning them up and down.

"I said the same thing!" Morgana exclaimed, who had been walking next to them on the way since Akira wasn't bringing any bags. He had to ask Sojiro to drop them, since no wallet or anything.

"Can you get out of my face?" Ryuji asked, annoyed. That only made Ann poke him in the side.

"You really went all out, Haru." Makoto's analysis felt extremely judgemental, so to hear praise filled both Akira and Ryuji with pride.

"I only paid, Yusuke's the one who picked them out."

"Huh, not bad Inari." Akira took a good time to look at Futaba who was sporting a cute, bright yellow yukata with floral patterns. Chrysanthemum's specifically. Actually, all the girls' yukatas were floral-based, which wasn't surprising for girls. And this was the first time he got to properly see Haru in a yukata from not just a glance.

But there was one exception to the floral patterns. Shiho Suzui stepped forward next to Makoto, taking the time to look over his yukata. She was wearing a white yukata similar to Makoto, except instead of flower patterns there were blue butterflies scattered about, with the rate red one popping out.

"I'm glad to see my money went to good use," Akira smiled. Shiho, who was focused on his own yukata, startled before smiling, twisting her body slightly.

"I wasn't so sure, but now I think I'm glad."

As he was about to say more, he was pulled down, an arm reaching around his shoulder. "What did I tell you? Gorgeous, right?"

"Absolutely." Ann and Akira stared dreamily at Shiho who wasn't sure what to do.

It was Ryuji's voice that brought them all back to reality. "Man, what the heck are we going to do for like, five hours?"

"Let's see if we can find the closest spot to the fireworks. I doubt we're the only ones here this early." Leave it to Makoto for a plan.

"And then what? None of us have our wallets or phones or anything!"

"Mwehehe." They turned to Futaba who pushed up her glasses with a grin. She reached into her sleeve and pulled out her phone. "I thought ahead."

"…Wish I thought of that." Ryuji sighed, slumping forward, defeated.

"No use complaining. Let's go." With Akira's word they all nodded, even Ryuji.

"It's good to see you again, Kurusu-kun."

Akira nodded, shaking the hand of the older man, a habit the two had developed. "I was worried I wasn't going to see you for the summer, Yoshida-san."

Yoshida chuckled. "Yoshida for you, my boy. Or even Tora if you wish."

"I had no idea you knew Toranosuke Yoshida, Akira…" Behind Akira was Makoto who seemed to be star struck. The rest of the group were sitting on several long benches lined up in a row with a clear view of the sky.

"You know, Yoshida, it's not going to look good if a lot of teenagers are in the VIP section," Akira pointed out.

"Oh? Did you forget already, Kurusu-kun? The message I've been trying to get across…"

"Youths are the future and adults need to pave the way for them." Yoshida looked at Makoto with admiration.

"Precisely. And what better example than paving the way for youths to enjoy a fireworks festival!" Yoshida laughed jovially while Akira smiled wryly.

"One might consider it abuse of power." That didn't stop Yoshida's laugh even though Akira knew he heard him. "Well, either way, we're very grateful."

"It's the least I could do for you, my boy. Now you…" Yoshida turned his attention to Makoto. "I'm impressed someone as young as you know who I am. But it comes to no surprise as a friend of Kurusu-kun."

"Oh, um, my goal is to become a police commissioner so I've been keeping my eye on politics and related fields. I'm actually a college student. Oh, right, my name is Niijima Makoto." To finish off her frantic introduction, Makoto bowed deeply.

"Please, there is no need to bow. I'm not a king or anyone worthy."

Akira stepped back, letting Makoto connect to someone who will, hopefully, be extremely relevant in politics soon. He sat down next to Shiho who was talking with Ann. Akira looked past them to see Yusuke and Haru talking and Ryuji, Futaba, and Morgana looking at stuff on Futaba's phone.

Sighing contently, Akira leaned back, careful not to fall and looked up at the clear sky. It would be a while before the fireworks. Maybe he could take a quick nap… While sitting up.

Akira began to stir when there was a significant amount more noise. He expected to be waking up with annoying back pains but was pleasantly surprised to not feel any. He was greeted by the clear sky directly overhead, making him realize that he was lying down.

A face appeared above him. "Oh, you're awake."

"You really are a good pillow." Akira sat up and stretched his arms. "What time is it?"

"Still early. You've only been asleep for an hour." Shiho looked at him concerned. "You must be really tired. You've been busy the past week, hm?"

Akira covered his yawn. "Yeah. I think I spent too long last night trying to wear my yukata properly."

"Couldn't Sakura-san help you?"

"He was asleep."

"Oh." Shiho then yawned herself.

"Looks like you didn't get enough sleep yourself."

Shiho shook her head. "With me, I got up really early."

"No kidding," Ann interrupted from the other side of Shiho. She leaned forward so Akira could see her better. "She even woke me up…"

Akira looked beyond Ann to see the rest of his friends. Makoto had joined them and everyone was talking quietly among themselves, but he couldn't help but notice a certain blonde was missing.

It didn't take him long to find him, on the floor snoring away. He turned his attention to his girlfriend, now even more grateful to her than before. "If you need a nap, by all means. It's the least I could do."

Shiho looked down at his lap and nodded very slightly, shifting so she could lie down properly against him. Akira smiled down at her, which she returned before closing her eyes.

"Hey, don't put your legs on me!" Shiho didn't make a sound acknowledging Ann's outburst and simply remained still. "I know you can hear me, Shiho!"

Akira looked back down at Shiho, whose mischievous smile faded away. Akira bent down slightly and was able to barely hear her soft breathing. "Huh, she's actually asleep."

"Leave it to her to exhaust all her energy," Ann smiled, already forgetting her outburst. "You know it was my idea to put you on her lap. She suggested we should let you take the whole bench! No way was I going to let that slide!"

Akira chuckled. "Thanks, Ann."

She grinned in response before looking back at Shiho. Her grin turned into an adoring smile. "I probably don't need to tell you this… but it's more for myself, but you'll take it slow with her, right?"

"Of course." Akira gently brushed some of Shiho's hair away from her eyes. "You know we haven't even had our first kiss yet."

"Really? With how bold she's been, I would've thought…"

"I think it's because of you. How you've been doing what you want without caring what others think, you've really inspired her. Like I knew you would."

"O-oh…" Ann blushed but was still looking at Shiho fondly. "I'm glad. I'll keep my promise, she'll keep hers, and you better keep yours."

"She'll be fine. You know that."

"Yeah… yeah! I do know that." Ann looked down at her lap, where the leg of her best friend laid. "Though I could do without this."

Ann gently raised Shiho's legs off her lap and placed them on the bench. "Call me back when she wakes up."

Akira nodded and Ann went over to the bench next to them, squeezing in between Futaba and Haru and joining their conversations. He looked up at the clear sky once again, clouds starting to seep in but they didn't look like rainclouds at the very least.

"Have I been too forward?" He looked down to see Shiho staring at him with wide brown eyes.

Akira reached down to grab her hand. In return, Shiho placed her other hand over it. "Nope, you've been perfect."

"Hm." He wasn't sure if his answer satisfied her, but soon her eyes closed and once again she was breathing lightly.

Akira sat back down as Ann stretched her arms, yawning. "Had a good nap?"

Ann nodded. "You're right, Shiho is a good pillow."

Shiho's index finger touched her forehead. "Am I just a pillow now?"

Akira wrapped an arm around Shiho's waist and pulled her close. "You're my pillow."

Shiho was pulled away from him by Ann who had a teasing look in her eye. "No, she's my pillow."

Shiho pulled her arm back and crossed her arms. "We are not doing this…"

Shiho was interrupted by a loud crack from the distance. They turned their attention ahead of them where sparkles filled the air. Soon, another firework. And more until the entire night sky was filled with them.

"So beautiful…" Akira was sure the others on the other bench were saying something similar but he couldn't hear them. They finally were able to experience them with an even bigger group.

He felt a tug on his yukata's sleeve and turned to meet Shiho, her face illuminated by many different colours. Her eyes were wide and sparkling, and just looking into them made his heart flutter. "…Are you sure?" He whispered, not even sure she heard him. But she nodded, moving closer and placing her hand on his chest above his heart.

"…Can you?" His only response was the most reassuring smile he could muster and leaned in to initiate their first kiss.

Her lips were soft and sweet. He resisted pushing his tongue out to taste them, leaning slightly forward so the side of their noses touched. He could feel her hand clench his yukata above his heart. He wasn't sure if he leaned forward, or was pulled.

"ARE YOU FOR REAL!?"

It was a faint shout, overshadowed by the loud fireworks above, but it still reached the two's ears. They broke away to see all their friends staring at them with incredulous expressions, save for Ann who was just stunned at the display and Yusuke at the back who was attempting to capture them in the frame of his fingers. Ryuji was especially gobsmacked, have been the source of the outburst. Ann turned to Ryuji who was sitting on the ground between their bench and the others' bench, and smacked him on the back of his head.

Shiho turned back to him, her face a bright red. From the fireworks or otherwise, Akira could guess. "This… wasn't exactly how I expected this to go."

He glanced up at his friends who were still staring, but looked back at Shiho. "This was exactly how I expected it to go." With that, his lips met hers once again.

Akria and Makoto thanked Yoshida once again before making their way back to their group of friends. Ryuji quickly approached Akira, slinging an arm around his shoulder. "Damn dude, that was freaking insane!"

"What a Casanova!" Futaba exclaimed.

"A bold move. As expected by an ex-master thief," Morgana also chimed in, being carried by Haru.

"You two have been burned in my mind… I hope you do not mind if I gave life to this image?"

"Wouldn't you have only seen the back of Suzui-san's head…?" Makoto questioned.

"I don't think I've seen Akira that red before…" Akira glared at Haru, only intensifying her giggles.

"Really? To me it looked like he knew exactly what he was doing," Ann gave Akira a teasing look who just sighed. He expected this. He really did.

"What about you, Suzui-san?" Haru asked, and all their attention turned to Shiho who was still a bright red.

It took a moment for her to realize they were talking to her. "H-huh?"

Ann grew concerned. "Shiho, are you all right?"

Ryuji stepped forward, his grin from earlier still going strong. "Heh, no words? Was he that good?"

Shiho's face brightened and Ann stomped her foot. "Don't make fun of her!"

"I-I wasn't!" Ryuji exclaimed, startled.

Akira took the opportunity to pull Shiho towards him. Placing a kiss on her forehead, he whispered, "We can stick with this for now."

"No, it's fine. I'm just… you… you're a good kisser."

Akira grinned. "Why thank you. You were pretty good yourself."

"They're being all lovey dovey," Futaba said.

"You get used to it," Morgana sighed and Ryuji and Futaba snickered.

"Don't you guys feel bad for intruding on them?" Makoto asked, guilt clear across her face. Their friends didn't feel the same way, shaking their heads.

"It's all right, Makoto," Akira said, getting her attention. "If we really wanted some quality time we'd go somewhere alone."

"Yeah, this was a group outing. If they were gonna go making out while with us, well they knew what they were getting into," Ryuji said, his grin back and hands behind his head.

"That's… unfortunately true," Shiho admitted.

"You didn't deny the making out part!"

"We weren't. It was just two kisses."

"Two looong kisses."

"You never had a good sense of time, Sakamoto-kun."

"Oh, Sojiro's here Akira!" Akira turned to Futaba who was looking at her phone. She slid it back into her sleeve. "I know you probably want to stay, but if you don't come now you're walking back to Yongen-Jaya."

"No thanks." Akira glanced down at his sandals before back at his friends. "See ya."

"We'll text you later," Ann promised. He nodded and was about to follow Futaba before she suddenly pushed him back.

"Don't forget to say goodbye to your girlfriend!"

Akira blinked and turned to Shiho, and back to Futaba. "You guys are going to make the most out of this, aren't you?"

"You can say that again," Ryuji exclaimed from behind him.

He heard Shiho yelp and Ann shout, "Don't push her!"

Turning around he was once again face to face with Shiho. He just pulled her to his chest, the two wrapping their arms around each other, ignoring the extremely annoying awws around them. "I think that's good for now."

Shiho nodded, reaching up to give him a peck on the cheek. Her smile was tiny and soft. "See you, teddy."

They released each other and Akira ignored the stares from everyone around him, friends and passerby alike, and followed Futaba and Morgana to wherever Sojiro was waiting.

Even as he walked back, the sweet sensation of her lips never left.

God I love her smile…

AN:

Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this lengthy chapter.

So, here's a loong eleventh chapter. Now this is the final chapter… probably. I wanted a follow up story with reactions and it ended up this. I didn't think it was good enough to be a standalone story and felt more epilogue.

Ann's reaction was originally an extra for chapter 10, but then I decided to scrap it and put it here in the reunion chapter.

It ended up very Phantom Thieves oriented instead of Akira and Shiho, but that's just how it is. I rather that than completely neglect the rest of the cast when they're still important people in his life.

Speaking of, I tried to shorten the chat logs but when you have such a big cast they go on for a bit. I completely cut out one of the chat logs so now there's just two and I made it so that you could skip them and basically not miss anything.

I know Joker/Shiho isn't a popular pairing (I almost want to say it's the rarest pairing in Persona 5) so I'm surprised how many people liked the story. Either I did a good job or there are a lot of silent Joker/Shiho fans out there (I know, I was one of them).

I have to say this: the scene where everyone watches them had a specific mental image. Ann would be the closest/largest face, just stunned they did that at all, then next would be Ryuji on the ground between the benches they're sitting on, leaning slightly more forward with his jaw dropped. After would be the next bench with either Futaba, Makoto, or Haru in whatever order with Morgana on one of their laps, each leaning slightly more forward than Ryuji and each other, and last is Yusuke at the end leaning the most forward with his finger-framing.

I tried drawing it, but I quickly stopped because of how bad I am at drawing. Just as bad as I am at describing things. Huge weakness of mine that I've been trying to get better at.

I would like to know people's overall thoughts but I understand if not. Again, just a fun chapter I wrote.