The school gates closed behind Kaito. The sun was setting. The sky was orange and purple. The shadows stretched long across the pavement. Kaito walked alone. Jin had gone home early. Ryota was at practice. Kaito took the west exit. He walked with his hands in his pockets. His pace was steady. He did not look back. Hana waited ten seconds. She stood behind a vending machine. Her heart beat fast. She knew she should not do this. She knew it was intrusive. She knew Kaito valued his privacy. But the worry had grown too large. It sat in her chest like a stone. She needed to know where he went. She needed to know why he came back torn. She stepped out. She kept her distance. Three buildings behind him. She wore dark clothes. She walked softly. She blended into the flow of pedestrians. Kaito did not turn. He moved like he knew the path by heart. He did not hesitate.
Kuro said: "We have a shadow."
Kaito said: "I know."
Kuro said: "It is the girl."
Kaito said: "Let her follow."
