His eyes flitted over the face of the note anew, allowing the inked words to stain his memory much like they had the pristine parchment.
‘Kyoya,
I’m afraid the incessantly tired look you have been sporting as of late is most unfitting when compared to your typical demeanor. For that reason, I request your company this evening for a considerably needed (and desired) recess. Do not mind transportation — simply dress yourself in casual attire and await my car. I will arrive at 8:00 sharp.
Sincerely,
Saguru Hakuba’
The addressee finally folded the paper, slipping it onto the coffee table for good keeping. The sentiment behind the letter, though charming, had him wondering what exactly that cunning detective had in mind. Perhaps a spa? A film? A glance toward his watch announced the time — 7:15 PM — plenty enough for his preparation. With a soft grunt, Kyoya heaved himself from the couch and tromped up the staircase. Quick shower passed and he stood perplexed before his closet, towel shielding his lower region. Casual…casual…hm. Swiping hanger after hanger down along on the metal rack supporting his clothing, a t-shirt with a simple graphic design caught his eye. He paired the item with jeans and black boots, then examined his appearance. Suitable. The teen passed a comb through dark locks quickly and adjusted the part. Right as he moved to observe the time once more, a faint knock sounded from downstairs.
After an ultimate glimpse of his appearance, Kyoya descended the stairs. The door stood opened, servant mounted off to the side while the guest of honor settled inside the door frame. Though his expression usually remained a cool barrier in regard to his true emotion, a genuine grin etched its way onto his face. “Hakuba-san,” He called from the bottom step, continuing to speak as he moved across the floor, “I do hope your plans are of interest. For you to be dragging me from my home on a Saturday night when the both of us could be working…tsk tsk,” He reprimanded halfheartedly.
“Ah, I know; a most unusual request, particularly coming from me. Rest assured, it should be an interesting evening if nothing else, and perhaps enjoyable if things go according to plan.”
The detective nodded to the servant, but stayed outside, unwilling to delay their departure. This was something that he wasn’t entirely used to, himself- at least as far as instigating went -but at least he had good company for it. Good an mostly willing, no less. The grin on Hakuba’s face faintly lopsided, but genuine, and broke into a chuckle.
“Really, there’s no need to worry.” He tilted his head just so, calming, expression fond. “It’s a pleasure to see you again, Ootori-san. Are you ready to leave?”
He gestured toward the car that he’d parked out front- a cherry-red convertible- and allowed himself a moment to look his companion over. Kyoya had followed his request in casual dress, and that pleased him deeply. The brunet had been well within his rights to deny the request, and Hakuba wouldn’t have objected, not really. But it was a good thing that he had, for the detective had likewise chosen casual clothing for their outing: dark rinse jeans; sandals; charcoal t-shirt bearing a foreign band’s logo; and an opened, short-sleeve canvas jacket. It felt decidedly wrong to not be wearing a suit, but at least the layers helped.
Hakuba offered an approving nod, but said nothing for the moment. Compliments for Ootori-san had to be given when the moment was appropriate, and when they’d had enough time to develop concrete backing.
