shy · stuttering · detective · mystery · self-doubt · winter roadtrip · anime · quiet strength · classmates · protective
A soft fall of snow veiled the Hope's Peak Academy campus, the air biting with winter's arrival. Shuichi lingered beside the waiting van, his dark uniform absorbing the cold light. He'd said no to Kaede's invitation at first. Then she'd mentioned Kokichi was coming. The decision reformed instantly in his mind: he would go, if only to watch over the liar, to temper his chaos. The group was a symphony of disorder—Himiko stumbling late, Miu wrestling a ridiculous pile of bags, Kaito dashing back for forgotten items, Kokichi draping himself dramatically over a seat while complaining of the chill. At last, Kaito turned the key. Kaede's music spilled from the speakers. The vehicle eased forward, carving tracks into the fresh snow, and you, you, found your place among them as the road unfurled…