A sigh left the lips of a famous informant who was currently looking at the pieces of paper that were spread out on his desk. His eyes flickered back to the monitor before he resumed his typing. Orihara Izaya was an efficient person when it comes to his work. That meant that he would work all night long if it meant finishing up his latest job. This day was one of those days. However, the reason he stayed up was so that he could attend Psyche's school festival. The young boy eagerly reminded Roppi and himself the past few days so neither of them could have an excuse for forgetting.

"That boy has too much energy."

Izaya remembered when Psyche begged them to go. Although both of them were busy with their work, they both agreed although Roppi was reluctant in going. He knew that the other hated being around people especially in a festival. Izaya only wondered how Roppi was going to handle that when the time comes. He hoped that nothing serious was going to happen during the event.

When Izaya looked at the clock on his computer he allowed himself a break. It seemed that it was nearing lunch time which meant that he had spent too much time working in his office. The informant stretched his arms over his head then sighed in relief when he felt a satisfying crack. He stood up from his desk then walked out of the room wanting to eat some fatty tuna. Once he was in the kitchen he looked inside the fridge only to notice that Psyche's lunch box was still inside. The boy must have forgotten it because of all the excitement.

"Hey Roppi! Come over here."

He heard a distinct grunt as he took out the box then placed it into a bag. Soon enough, he heard a door slam open before his brother walked over with a blank expression on his face. Roppi took one look at the bag in his hand then instantly knew what he wanted him to do.

"Why do I have to go give it to him? I have work to do."

"So do I, but you're halfway done with yours when the deadline is a few months away."

Roppi tsked silently to himself and crossed his arms over his chest. A small grin formed on Izaya's face since he knew that he was going to win this battle.

"Come on, it's just a trip to his school. It's not like I'm telling you to go help him set up for the festival."

"Still, you know I hate being around humans."

"Yet you love being around us."

"You know that that's different, Izaya."

Both of them stared at each other with the same expression for a while. They knew what was going to happen, but one of them was just stalling the inevitable. After a moment of silence, Roppi abruptly left the room without another word. There was another slam before the house become quiet again. A few moments later a door opened before Roppi returned in his outing clothes. He silently grabbed the bag then left without another word.

"Come home soon."

Izaya waved at no one in particular then went back to the fridge to get his precious fatty tuna. Once he had it in his hands, he returned back to his office to continue his work. To his relief, it didn't take long to finish the rest of the job. That meant he had time to himself before the festival. He should probably take a nap so that he could catch up with his sleep. But then again, there were other things he could get done.

When he went to eat another piece of fatty tuna, Izaya realized that they were all gone. A sigh left his lips before he decided to change his clothes to get some more. Within a few minutes, the informant was outside in his usual attire. He checked his surroundings then noticed a bird nest wedged into a corner where the top of the walls meet.

"Huh, the nest is really big now."

Every year, there were always a couple of birds that decided to make a nest at the same spot every time. He didn't know if they were the same birds, and honestly it didn't matter to him. At first, the informant would usually take down the nest since the landlord received some concerns from other neighbors. However, Psyche immediately intervened and somehow managed to convince everyone to leave the nest alone. As an Orihara, he knew how to manipulated people whenever it was necessary. It was just unusual to imagine such a sweet boy to have that kind of power in him.

Izaya walked over to the corner then jumped on top of a fence to get a better look at the nest. A soft smile spread on his lips when his eyes rested on two bird eggs lying inside the nest. He wondered why the parents were allowing the nest to be unguarded and in such a dangerous place. Someone could easily topple this over whether it was a human or animal. He looked around the building then noticed two birds in different locations looking straight at him. A knowing smile appeared on his face before he looked back at the two eggs. They were so tiny and fragile, just like human beings.

After taking one last look at the nest, Izaya continued his quest for fatty tuna. Today he hoped he wouldn't have to run into the strongest man in Ikebukuro. If somehow they got into their usual chase, the informant would have some trouble making it in time for Psyche's festival. Also, he was physically too tired for another one of their chases. Sometimes their routine lasted more than a few hours if the protozoan was intent on catching him.

Lately his Shizu-chan has been acting more aggressive lately. It's almost as if he wanted to do more than just chase him. There was a fine line in their game that neither should cross. To a third person's point of view it may seem like they were both trying to kill each other. However to Izaya, it was all fun and games. He never intentionally tried to hurt the other man no matter what cruel things he did to him. If Izaya really wanted the other dead, he would have been gone long ago. The same can also be said to Shizuo.

There were many times that the Heiwajima had to get rid of the flea once and for all. However, he never dealt the final blow. Shizuo would always play it off as 'not being his day' or 'not the right time' but it showed that he had a soft side. Again, there was a fine line between them that was set without saying. However, it seems that Shizuo might be trying to cross it. Izaya just hoped that things were still under his control. If the Heiwajima continued to act uncharacteristically, something was going to happen. Something that he himself didn't know.

However, that's what makes life interesting. Not knowing what happens tomorrow. Humans wishing earnestly for something better in a new tomorrow. People striving on and on for power and money. It amused Izaya to no end how predictable yet unpredictable things could be. He just hoped that it wouldn't be the death of him. Even though Izaya knows practically everything, there were things that he couldn't control. He could influence someone's decision, but it was up to them in the end.

After a trip to Russian Sushi, Izaya made his way back home while eating pieces of fatty tuna. To his surprise, he didn't see any sign of his Shizu-chan. He had no problems arriving in Ikebukuro, get his sushi and returning back home. He was nearly halfway home and there were still no traces of the monster. It intrigued the informant, but that was placed in the back of his mind.

Currently he was trying to deciding whether to buy some cake for Roppi and Psyche. He knew that both of them loved sweets unlike himself, so he was contemplating on getting something for them. It was a good way to get into the festival mood. Just as he was thinking this, he noticed a familiar blonde figure walking through the streets. Izaya was about to turn the other way when he noticed Shizuo hug a girl then twirled her around with a smile on his face. It disturbed the informant to see him so happy especially with someone he hasn't seen before.

Unconsciously, his eyes darkened with the thought of sending that girl to her grave. She may be the reason why Shizuo was acting differently. At the moment, he didn't know how her presence would make him more aggressive in there fights. However, he had a feeling that she was playing a part in changing him. No girl in her right mind would jump into his arms so willingly. Shizuo even looked like he was genuinely happy to be with her.

He didn't see what was so different about the girl that made her special. She had black hair and brown eyes like most of the girls living in Japan. Her height, looks, and presence all seemed average. She was brave for being able to get near the Heiwajima, he'll give her that. But there was nothing else that told him that she was different.

Izaya watched as the two continued down the streets hand in hand. The girl said something to him that he couldn't catch, but it made Shizuo blush then look away in embarrassment. It was unusual seeing such emotions on the monster's face. The informant never knew that he was capable of making such a face since he always had an angry expression whenever he chased him. But there wasn't any other way for him to get the other's attention except making him angry.

A small headache started form in the back of Izaya's head. He sighed softly then started rubbing his temples to prevent it from getting worst. That was when he realized a pair of eyes staring back at him. Apparently Shizuo sensed his presence then noticed that he was standing on the other side of the street. At first he looked surprised to see him, but then it changed into the same angry expression he wore whenever Izaya was around.

Before the blonde man could throw something at him, the girl tugged his shirt to get his attention. Once he looked at her, she shook her head then motioned for them to go somewhere. Shizuo took one last look at the informant then decided to go with her. The two of them walked side by side without turning back to look at Izaya. For some reason, that made him angry. Shizuo never turned away from a chase. He didn't care if he was tired or if the weather was terrible, the blonde brute would always chased him. This just proved that the girl was more important than him.

Just from looking at the facts that he discovered, he guessed that Shizuo was becoming more aggressive so that he could get rid of him. Before, he might have turned away the chance of killing him, but it didn't seem that way anymore. Shizuo probably wanted to get rid of him so that he wouldn't have to worry about running into him. No doubt he would want a more peaceful life with that girl by getting rid of the flea. The reason why he turned away now was because the girl would be there to see it all happen. He probably wouldn't want to traumatize her with his violence.

Izaya shook his head then started walking back home again. This time, with much more stress and thoughts on his mind. The nap he suggested to himself earlier sounded nice right about now. His eyes felt heavy and he couldn't take the sight of the sun anymore.

Suddenly, his phone started vibrating in his pocket. When he took it out, he saw that there was a message from Psyche. It was a reminder that the school festival was today so that he had no excuse for not attending. Izaya chuckled a little then sent a quick replying saying that he will be there.

Crash

Izaya turned around in time to see a trash bin falling to the floor. The informant blinked once, then twice before continuing down the street. He didn't see anyone knock it over, but something had to be the cause of it. It couldn't have fallen over by itself. Izaya took another piece of tuna into his mouth then threw away the empty container. As he did that, he looked at the reflection of a window to see a shadow following him from behind. At that moment, he decided to go to the pastry shop nearby after all. Psyche deserved a reward for being the sunshine in their family.

The informant looked at the window again to double check that there was a person following him. The person looked like they were trying to be discreet, but nothing gets past Izaya Orihara. It didn't seem like the person was going to make a move on him so Izaya ignored it for now. Soon enough, he walked into the pastry shop then pushed the thoughts of his stalker to the back of his head. He now had serious thinking to do

"Which flavor."

Izaya found himself staring at the numerous choices of cakes behind a display. He knew that Psyche loved sweets in general, so he'd eat any kind of cake. The problem was deciding what Roppi was willing to eat. He was very particular with his food especially desserts. It was a hit or miss with that guy. Izaya remembered that he liked coffee, but he wasn't sure if he was fine with that flavored cake. A long sigh left his lips as he finally made a decision. He was hoping that he made the right choice or else he'll have to waste a perfectly good piece of cake.

While he was making his purchase, Izaya saw something move behind him. When he turned around, there was no one in his sight. A frown found its way on his face as the informant took his cake then exited the shop. Whoever this person was, he was hoping that they would show themselves soon. He was starting to consider sending a truck to run over them so that this could end.

Izaya picked up his pace going back home. If they wanted to get his attention, they better do it soon. He was a busy person, and he didn't feel like wasting his time on one of his beloved humans. Just as he was approaching his home, Izaya noticed something odd fall from the top of a building. At the same time a black bird flew up into the sky. The informant walked up to the fallen object then noticed that it was the bird nest. A solemn look overtook his face when he noticed that the eggs were missing inside.

He kneeled down then scooped the well made nest into his hands then looked back up to the top of the building. Two birds were circling around the area frantically searching for something. Izaya took his time going up to the floor of his apartment. He thought of how fate is cruel even to animals. Even though he already knew the possibilities of the nest falling, it was still disheartening to see it happen. However, the feeling he had wasn't sadness but more of disappointment. It wasn't an unfamiliar feeling since some of his humans become boring. For some reason, this was different.

When he arrived on his floor, he looked at the parent birds still looking for their fallen nest. He gently placed it on the floor near the corner then looked at one of them. A frown remained on his face as he stepped away for them to check their nest. It took them a while to notice it on the floor, but once they did, the two of them stood near it. For a moment they looked inside, but then they took off into the sky together without looking back.

As he watched them fly away, Izaya realized the difference that set animals apart from humans. Not only did animals have no reasoning, they had the instinct to live. Humans also had instinct, but it wasn't the animalistic strive to continue living. It was do or die for animals. They didn't have the resources and opportunities that are given to humans to survive. Animals relied on their abilities and strength to continue their existence.

Even when they experience a loss, they let it go and continue on with their lives because of instinct. It was no use wasting time mourning for their dead companion. Humans spend the time to grieve for the deceased that can range from a week to a few months. Animals don't seem to feel emotional pain, and Izaya envied them for that. If he wasn't so attached to certain things, then he wouldn't get hurt. He would be able to brush it off and continue living.

"Emotions are so complicating."

Izaya entered his house then placed the cake on the kitchen counter. He rubbed his eyes then remembered that he needed to take some vitamins. He wouldn't want to catch something from all of the late night work, so he often took them before he went to sleep. With slow strides, the informant opened a cabinet then took out a bottle full of green vitamins that boost his immune system. There were also bottles for zinc, vitamin c, iron, and such. For the green vitamins, he needed to take ten of them a day.

Slowly the informant shook the bottle so that a couple of vitamins landed on the palm of his hand. One by one, he counted them in his head so that he didn't take too many or too little. His red eyes stared at the little circles in his hand and hated how darkly green they were. It reminded him of the color vomit would be.

As he was getting a glass of water, he heard his front door slam open. Izaya turned around then felt his eyes widened at the sight of a familiar blonde man in his kitchen. Shizuo took one look at the vitamins in his hand then immediately walked over and slapped them away. Before the informant could say anything, a pair of lips covered his own. By instinct the informant struggled, but the other easily held him down with his strength. The kiss was rough, and quickly turned intense since both of them fought for dominance. Soon enough, Shizuo pulled away then stared at Izaya with glowing eyes.

"You damn flea. How dare you try to commit suicide! Only I am allowed to kill you, you got that!"

"Suicide? Has your brain gotten smaller after getting a girlfriend?"

"Don't pull your tricks on me. I saw how many of those drugs you had in your hand. You were trying to overdose yourself."

"Why do you care? Shouldn't you be with your girlfriend right now?"

Shizuo growled lowly and looked like he wanted to hit him, but he made no move to do so. Instead he let out a long sigh, then spoke in a softer tone.

"Listen to me flea, that girl is a family friend visiting from America. She wanted me to accompany her, so that was what I was doing."

"You looked very lovey dovey with her from a stranger's point of view. You were holding her hand and everything."

"Well I haven't seen her in a long time, so that's why I was very open with my feelings. Also, I didn't want her to get lost so I held her hand."

Shizuo looked away in embarrassment which made a smirk form on Izaya's face. Things were starting to clear up now that the brute explained himself. It seemed that he made the wrong assumption, but that was expected since he didn't have the proper information at that time.

"So after you had some time to think, you decided to leave the girl behind then stalk me to my home? I didn't know you were so heartless, Shizu-chan."

He received a growl as an answer which made the informant laugh.

"I'm just kidding, no need to be so serious. You must really care about me if you stopped me from what you thought was suicide."

"Wait, you weren't?"

"Read the bottle Shizu-chan. These are vitamins, not drugs."

Izaya showed him the bottle which caused a deep red to spread over Shizuo's face. He looked away and grunted while rubbing the back of his head.

"And to even go as far as kissing me? You must be in love with me, right?"

The informant crept up behind the other and wrapped his arms around Shizuo's waist from behind. He leaned his head on the other's broad shoulders and smiled a little.

"Does that mean in our chase you were trying to capture me so that you could confess?"

"D-don't get the wrong idea, flea. I still want to kill you with my bare hands."

Izaya chuckled then held onto the other more tightly.

"I love you too, Shizu-chan. Please take care of me from now on."

The two of them stayed in the kitchen in silence while enjoying the other's presence. Everything suddenly changed in an instant, so they took this time to process what happened. For a while they rocked each other back and forth in a steady rhythm that started to lull the informant to sleep.

"Hey Shizu-chan. It's not like I care, but is it alright to leave that girl alone?"

"I dropped her off with Kazuka before I started following you. She convinced me to try talking to you instead of using violence."

Izaya hummed to himself.

"And breaking into my house then kissing me is your definition of 'talking'?"

Shizuo grunted as he felt the other slump against his body. The exhaustion of pulling an all nighter was starting to get to the informant, so he struggled to stay awake.

"You know you're going have to pay for my front door."

"Yeah yeah you don't have to remind me."

Shizuo rubbed the back of his head then untangled himself from Izaya's grip, so that he could fix the door. The hinges were broken off, but with a few tricks he managed to pull together a temporary solution. Later on, he'll have someone fix it up properly. When he came back to the kitchen, he found Izaya resting his head on the kitchen counter.

"Flea, you shouldn't sleep here it's not good for your body."

"Shizu-chan, I'm tired."

The tall blonde man held Izaya's face in his large hands.

"You have bangs under your eyes. Did you stay up working?"

Izaya nodded then soon found himself being carried to his room. At the moment, the raven haired male was too tired to argue so he let the other hold him. It took them a while before Shizuo found the right room, but it didn't matter. Once they were in his room, Shizuo placed Izaya on the bed then laid down next to him.

"Remember to wake me up in the afternoon. I have to go to Psyche's school for the festival today."

"You should get some rest instead."

"I promised Psyche that I'll go."

"It doesn't matter, your health comes first."

"Shizu-chan is very kind. It feels weird to receive that kindness from you."

"Just shut up and go to sleep."

"So demanding."

Izaya yawned then closed his eyes and moved closer to the body heat to him. Shizuo pulled the covers over them then placed an arm around the smaller male to pull him closer. After taking out his phone to send a text, Shizuo looked down at Izaya then kissed the top of his head.

"I love you flea, don't you ever forget that."