>>5771587>>5771644You make the decision to join Aika in uncovering the truth, driven by your professional curiosity. As the two of you walk towards your car, Aika flashes a teasing grin. "Starting to believe in the supernatural, Mr. Ohta?" You shrug, adjusting the car's rearview mirror. "I wouldn't say that. But, in the absence of logical explanations, I'm willing to expand my horizons."Aika nods appreciatively, quoting, "When you've ruled out the impossible, whatever's left, no matter how improbable, is the truth." Raising an eyebrow, you respond, "Sherlock Holmes fan, are we?" A faint blush tints her cheeks. "Guilty. You?" You chuckle, the unexpected common ground between you two creating a warm feeling. "He's always been an inspiration." Aika tilts her head playfully, feline ears twitching. "So, how about it, Mr. Ohta? Will you be my Watson?" A laugh escapes your lips. "I always pictured myself more as a Holmes, especially since I am the believer in logic and reason, while you're the one chasing after folklores." Her rebuttal is swift, "Remember, Arthur Conan Doyle himself believed in the paranormal." You nod, recalling an interesting tidbit. "Though Doyle wasn't the best detective himself in real life. Tried to crack the case of Agatha Christie's disappearance and couldn't." Aika chuckles, "Point taken. So, where to?" With a sly grin, you announce, "We're headed to see an expert in Japanese folklore. And she happens to be my grandmother." Aika smiles softly, her gaze distant. "Sounds lovely. Families can be... nice." Sensing a deeper pain, you venture cautiously, "Trouble with your family, Miss NyanNyan?" She sighs, a note of sadness in her voice. "We aren't really on speaking terms. They struggle to accept me as I truly am." Your heart goes out to her. "I'm sorry if I stirred up difficult memories." She offers a small smile, shaking her head. "It's okay, Mr. Ohta." When you arrive at your grandmother's traditional home, the familiar scent of tatami mats and incense wafts towards you. The door slides open, revealing your sprightly grandma. "Hideo! What brings you here?" She eyes Aika with an impish glint, "And with such a cute girlfriend, no less!" You..
>.. tell her Aika is a colleague.>.. tell her Aika is just a friend.>.. play along and pretend she is your girlfriend. 