Light’s POV:

“Light-kun!” Misa squealed, causing Light to inwardly groan. He stepped into her hotel room, barely getting through the door before she pulled him into a rather bone-crushing embrace. “I missed you!”

“It’s only been a few days since we last saw each other. You visited me at headquarters, remember?” he muttered quietly. “Don’t be so dramatic.”

She’s annoying as always…one upside to finding a new Kira is that I won’t have a reason to see Misa anymore. Not that she has to know that.

“I know!” Misa replied, pouting a little. “It’s been so long…why are you here? Are we finally going to get to go on a proper date?!”

“Not quite,” Light replied, earning a slight frown from Misa. “Misa-chan, please understand, I’m strictly only here for business. There’s something pressing that we have to discuss. It’s important, so I’d like it if you’d be serious.”

“That’s no fun,” Misa pouted, leading him into the living room. She sat on the couch, patting the cushion next to her. “But what is it? I thought you’d be happy that I started killing criminals again! Isn’t that what you wanted me to do?”

Light sat down next to her, “it’s not quite that per say…I did want Kira to continue punishing criminals, but...it’s complicated. Where’s your death note?”

At this, Misa jumped up, “wait a moment, I’ll get it!”

He watched as she left for her bedroom. Light was wondering how best to break the news to her. However, he didn’t have very long to think. Moments later, she was barreling back into the room, death note in hand. Ryuk was trailing closely behind her.

“Hey, Light!” Ryuk grinned, “got anything for me?”

“Of course. How could I forget?” Light murmured, reaching into his pocket for the fruit. The apple was gone from his hand in seconds.

“Anyway,” Misa interjected, “what’s going on, Light-kun? You look so serious…is anything the matter?”

“There’s been a change in plans, I’m afraid…” Light looked between Misa and Ryuk, who was still gobbling down the apple. He turned his attention back to Misa, taking a moment to turn his charm on.

I know she won’t be happy to hear this, but it’s what Rem wants…if I want Rem to get rid of L for me, I need Misa to agree to this… I have an idea...I think I know just how I should go about this…

“Misa-chan,” Light started. “Please keep calm and listen to me. I know that you want to help me by acting as Kira, and I really appreciate all that you’ve done for me…but I think it’s best if we find a new Kira…”

“A new Kira?!” Misa squeaked out. “Don’t tell me you don’t think I’m suitable for the job anymore! I thought I was doing pretty well…Light-kun, don’t tell me you’re replacing me because you don’t like me anymore! I’ll do anything you want me to!”

I knew she’d react like this…now it’s time for me to convince her…I have a feeling she’ll end up agreeing by the time I’m finished.

“It’s not that at all, Misa-chan. Don’t think so much. It’s not what you think. And anyway, you’ve been doing a great job acting as Kira,” Light commented. “However, it doesn’t feel fair to me to ask you to dedicate your life to this.”

Misa was quick to reply. “Oh, don’t worry about me Light-kun! I don’t mind at all!”

“You might not mind, but I do. Trust me,” Light leaned over, tucking a loose strand of hair away from Misa’s face. He spoke softly, catching her eye as he did so, “you’re beautiful, you know that. I’ve always thought so, too. I don’t want you acting as Kira because I’d rather you be doing something else with your time. Let someone else do the dirty work. Hashimoto wants to cast you in his new movie again, right?”

“Where are you going with this, Light-kun…?”

“What I’m saying is...why don’t you tell him you’ll do it? Why don’t you go back into being an actress? Don’t waste your talents, Misa-chan.”

“But…” Misa protested. It was clear that she was going to need a bit more convincing.

Fortunately, I know what to do…

Light pressed a finger against her lips, which was instant in silencing her. “I know this seems so sudden, Misa-chan…but I’ve thought a lot about this. I know you want to help me, and I’m grateful for everything that you’ve done up to this point. Right now helping me means that you’ll let go of the death note and go back to your normal life.”

Misa grabbed Light’s hand, guiding it away from her face. While she was still rather shocked, it appeared she was calming down some. “Are you sure about this? You truly want me to go back to my career and give this up?”

Light gave a nod, “absolutely. I’ve already found someone to replace you as Kira. He’s the best person for the job. Once he takes over, you’ll be free to do whatever you please. You won’t have to worry about anything.”

“You’re really...serious...about this…” Misa murmured. She let out a breath, staring up into Light’s eyes. She was silent for a moment, as if deep in thought. “Alright, Light-kun. I trust you...if you’re certain, and this is really what you want me to do, I’ll do it. You know I’d do anything for you…I just want to know if this is really what you want first. I know I’d make a great Kira...”

A smirk found Light’s face, I knew it would work on her…it didn’t take very much convincing at all.

“Like I said a moment ago, I’m sure about this,” Light confirmed. “I’ve already thought everything through. It’s not that I don’t like you acting as Kira, it’s just...it wouldn’t be fair to ask you to give up your passions in the process. Besides, it’s safer this way. If someone on the Task Force were to test the fake rules, we’d be easy targets. That being said, it’s better if neither of us are Kira, because if something were to trace back to us, it probably wouldn’t end very well. That would mean all that extra work we did before would be meaningless.”

“That makes sense, Light-kun,” Misa leaned back on the couch, looking deep in thought. She was quiet for a few moments, absorbing what he said. “You really did think this through. Who is this new Kira that you’ve decided on then? I want to see this guy for myself.”

Heh, I knew you’d ask. I came prepared, as always...

He took out a stack of papers out of his briefcase, handing them to her. “His name is Teru Mikami. I created a list of possible people that could take over as Kira in case something were to happen months ago, and he was always my number one. He’s quiet, methodological, and doesn’t ask unnecessary questions. He exercises good control over his emotions, so I wouldn’t have to worry about any slip up. Like you, he’d be willing to do anything I ask of him without hesitation. Most importantly, he’s loyal to Kira.”

“Oh, wow. He’s a criminal prosecutor?! He’s perfect,” Misa grinned, holding up his file. “He really is the perfect Kira…”

“Yes, he’s the ideal candidate,” Light replied. “Misa-chan, listen to me very carefully. Here’s the plan. I want you to get in contact with Mikami-san, but make sure that there is no record of your interaction. There cannot be anything that links Teru Mikami to either of us. Once you get in contact with him, tell him that Kira has chosen him to become his right hand man. You can kill off a criminal to prove your identity...then the time is right, I will get in contact with the two of you, and the exchange of the death note will be made.”

Misa gave Light a nod. “I understand! When do you want me to contact him?”

“The sooner, the better,” Light raised an eyebrow, “I can count on you, right?”

“Of course you can!” Misa grinned, “don’t worry, I got this!”

Good, good, looks like everything will work out smoothly after all…this little bump in the road will have been worth it.

/meanwhile/

Keiko’s POV:

Keiko kept watch of Light’s empty chair. For the first time in a while, he had left headquarters. While there wasn’t much going at the moment, her thoughts were more than enough to keep her occupied. There was a lot for her to consider, especially about Light Yagami and how to go about the rest of her plan.

Light’s been gone an awful while...he said he was stepping out to get some fresh air, but somehow I have a feeling he’s meeting up with Misa. He has to be, there’s no other plausible explanation. And, if I’m correct, then that means they’re probably trying to figure out who the next Kira will be in their place. I can’t sit still and wait for them. I suppose now is a good time to put the next phase of the plan into action...that means...it’s finally time…with the two of them electing a new Kira, the investigation starts from scratch. At least, on the surface, it will. There’s a way to make progress with my plan and with the investigation, but I’ll need some help...his help.

“Ryuzaki-san,” Keiko stood up, walking over toward the detective. She had to admit, she was a little nervous, but it was time to tell him. “May I speak with you in private?”

She watched as L turned around in his chair to face her. From what Keiko could tell, it appeared that he had been expecting her. “Yes. If my deductions are correct, this is about what we talked about last time, right?”

Keiko gave a slight nod, looking him in the eyes. “Yes. I think it’s time…”

“Time,” the detective echoed. “You mean…”

He trailed off. Although he never quite finished his sentence, Keiko knew the two of them were on the same page based on the look in his eyes.

She gave him a soft smile. “Yes.”

I suspect you’ve already tried to figure out what my plan is…and maybe you have, but it’s finally time for me to tell you what’s been on my mind this whole time…with Rem now on my side, I feel confident enough. You should be safe for the time being...which means no more keeping secrets, and no more lying...at least not to you.

“I see,” was his immediate response. He was quiet for a moment, and Keiko wondered what he was thinking. Fortunately, she didn’t have to wait too long. The detective’s voice was much softer as he added, “Kagami-san, you’re sure about this, right?”

“Yes.” Keiko nodded once more, “I’m sure.”

“As long as you’re sure,” L replied. He met her eyes, a thoughtful look on his face. “I told you before, I trust you. You’ve made it this far, after all.”

At those words, Keiko’s heart soared. She knew, coming from the great detective, those words meant the world. “I…” she trailed off, suddenly feeling a little shy at his unexpected compliment. The look in his eyes wasn’t quite helping her either. “I-I just…” She couldn’t speak, not when he was smirking at her like that.

“You just...” he repeated. It was clear to Keiko he was enjoying seeing her flustered. “What is it, Kagami-san?”

Keiko looked away, trying to ignore his gaze. “I just…wanted to update you on what’s been going on…like I said, I think it’s time…and I’ll be needing your help with some of it...or rather, you and your connections…”

“Is that so?” L raised an eyebrow, chuckling slightly. “It sounds like you’ve thought everything through. In that case, let’s go…”

/short timeskip/

“...I was thinking, once we finalize all the preparations, we can go after them. With everyone’s cooperation, I’m sure we can get the evidence we need to capture Kira once and for all. Of course, no one else can know what we’re up to. Rem knows I have a plan for Light, but even she doesn’t know the specifics. Anyway, I’m not worried about her. As long as Light doesn’t suspect anything, we’ll be good.” Keiko finished. Despite her anxiety, she was glad she let everything out. She cast a look at the detective. As she expected, his face didn’t betray any emotion. Instead, she waited with bated breath for his response.

What does he think? Is it what he expected? Wait…what if it’s not and he doesn’t think it will work? What if he’s silent because he’s regretting his decision to trust me? No, no, you can’t think like that! You’ve come this far…he said it himself. You managed to earn his trust, so have a little faith in yourself. Even if he isn’t entirely sold on the plan, you can find a way to convince him. You can make things work!

“Look, I know it won’t be easy, Ryuzaki-san,” she added after a moment, breaking the silence between them. “I’m aware of that. But I’m prepared to do whatever it takes. That’s why I took Light back in the first place. I’m certain that, if he thinks I’m on his side, he won’t suspect anything…at least not from me. And anyway, as long as we work together, I’m sure we can pull this off. It’s the only chance we have…please.”

“Kagami-san,” L said after a long moment. His gaze met hers, and Keiko was starting to feel anxious all over again. “Based off what you told me, I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how risky this plan is. I’m afraid, no matter how well thought out your plan is, it’s still a dangerous idea, especially if you get caught.”

“I know. To be completely honest, I’m terrified.” Keiko swallowed. “But you’re already in a dangerous position right now. I couldn’t just sit back and do nothing.”

She watched as the detective took a step toward her. A flash of emotion crossed his features. “You really did all of this for me?”

A sheepish look found its way onto Keiko’s face. She gave a slight cough, her cheeks already tinged with pink. “And for the investigation, of course,” she added.

“Hmm…” He raised an eyebrow at her but said nothing.

Keiko wasn’t sure how to take his sudden silence. Her mind was buzzing with worry, what’s he thinking…? Is he going to let me continue on with this…is he going to help me with setting the rest of my plan into action? He will, right? Or at least, I really hope so…unless...what if he thinks my plan isn’t good enough or something? Is that why he isn’t saying anything? Is he by any chance disappointed?

“Ryuzaki-san,” She started, but the look on the detective’s face cut her off. His expression was only momentary, but she wondered if he was concerned. Keiko wasn’t quite sure. Before she could stop herself, she started to speak once more. “What is it? I don’t know what you’re thinking and it’s driving me crazy.”

Actually, crazy is an understatement…

“It’s nothing. Don’t worry about it,” the detective let out a breath. “All you need to know is that I trust you, Kagami-san…and it should go without saying that you have my support.”

“Thank you, Ryuzaki-san. That really means a lot,” Keiko found herself saying. She gave him a soft smile, feeling a little better at his words.

But he’s still holding back…what is it?

However, despite his answer, Keiko found she still wasn’t satisfied. The two of them both knew that there was more he was keeping to himself. While she knew it would be a shot in the dark, she also knew that she had to attempt to pry the information out of him.

“Ryuzaki-san, is something the matter? Is it something with my plan? Are you worried it won’t work out?” Keiko questioned. At his silence, she swallowed. “Please, just talk to me.”

The detective buried his hands in his pockets. His eyes flickered towards Keiko, studying her intently. “It’s not your plan that I’m worried about, Kagami-san.”

At this, Keiko let out a sigh of relief. However, her relief was only short lived as she realized he still had yet to fully answer her questions. “Then what is it?”

“Like I said, I’m not worried about the plan…I’m worried about you.”

“A-about me?” Keiko stuttered out, taken aback a moment. For the second time that day, she was speechless. This answer was not what she expected. “You’re the one that’s in danger, L…it’s you that I’m worried about.” She said simply, meeting his eyes. His gaze was soft, causing her heart to skip a beat.

He was worried about me again? I know the circumstances are grim, but hearing him say that…and knowing that he was concerned about me…makes me happy. That means he really does care about me.

“That may be true but I was serious when I said I didn’t want anything to happen to you,” L started, breaking her away from her thoughts. He took a step toward her, his expression serious. “I know you’ve thought a lot about what to do, that much is clear, but think about the position you’re in right now. At this point, Light Yagami will do anything to ensure that Kira wins. And you’re letting him use you as his pawn. Not only that, but you made a deal with a shinigami. You’re in a dangerous position yourself.”

“I-I’ll be alright,” Keiko replied. “I’m sure of it. Don’t worry about me.”

“That’s much easier said than done, Keiko-chan,” the detective said, causing Keiko to lose her breath.

When he says things like that, he makes it impossible for me not to fall for him!

For a moment the two stared at each other without saying a word. The detective was so close, if Keiko were to reach forward, she’d be able to touch him. To hug him, maybe even kiss him. The thought was enough to make her shiver. It took a lot of effort, but she refrained. For both of their sakes.

I know it’s silly to think about at this point, but I wish things were different. Technically, I have a boyfriend, even if he is Kira…and L’s told me that, due to the nature of his job and status, having feelings for me would be too risky…but still. I can’t help how I feel about him. While I can’t act on those feelings, I can still help him. Right now, I suppose the only thing I can do for him is to help him capture Kira once and for all.

“Just tell me you’ll be careful,” L spoke, breaking the sudden silence between them. If he could feel the tension between them, he didn’t show it.

But, then again, he’s always been better at hiding things…it’s always hard to know what he’s feeling.

A faint smile played on Keiko’s face as she nodded. “I will…besides, we can do this. I know we can outsmart him.”

After all, what other option do we have?

At this, L’s lips curved upwards, “I hope you’re right, Kagami-san.”

/timeskip/

L’s POV:

“You’re finally here,” the detective commented, not looking up from his computer screen. “You were gone an awful while.”

Too long, in fact. It’s suspicious...

“Ah, sorry, Ryuzaki-san,” Light started. He sat down in a seat across from the detective. “I lost track of time. There was a lot to think about.”

‘A lot to think about’, eh? He narrowed his eyes, I’m sure there was a lot to think about, Kira… I know exactly what you were really doing…

“Everyone else already went to bed, huh?” Light added after a moment of silence passed between the two. “It sure is quiet in here at night.”

“It is,” L agreed.

Now that Light’s back, it’s time for a quick little test…this is all I can do right now for Keiko…I have to make sure that she’ll be okay for the time being, I have to make sure that Light still thinks she’s in love with him. At this thought, he felt a pang of some sort in his chest, but he brushed this aside, as much as I don’t like seeing the two of them together, their being together is a good way to ensure Keiko’s safety.

The detective turned around to face Light, an eyebrow raised. “Kagami-san was wondering when you’d get back. I’d say she missed you.”

“Is that so?” Light commented. The detective watched as the corner’s of Light’s mouth curved upwards as he chuckled. “Well, I missed her too. It’s too bad I couldn’t see her tonight, but I suppose I’ll get to see her tomorrow.”

The detective studied Light carefully, looking for any sort of sign of suspicion on his part, hmm…from what I can tell, he definitely doesn't suspect anything at the moment, meaning Keiko should be alright for now. I thought as much, based on his previous behavior. Also...I’m quite curious…were you really missing her, Light Yagami? Or are you lying to me once more? One way or another, I’m going to find out.

L let a few moments of silence pass between them before opening up the conversation once more. “Did you happen to meet up with Misa Amane by any chance?” L questioned.

At this, Light frowned. The detective could hear a hint of defensiveness in his voice as he replied. “No. I told her that I had no feelings for her, why would I see her? That makes no sense, Ryuzaki-san.”

Denial. Of course. I knew he was going to react this way, but…

“You can lie to Kagami-san, but not to me,” L raised an eyebrow. “Why else would you take so long? You went to see her. It’s that simple.”

Well, what now, Light Yagami? Will you continue to lie to me? You should know that it’s pointless, it was pointless from the beginning.

“Fine,” Light replied, crossing his arms. “I went to see her. But it’s not what you’re thinking. I just don’t want Keiko to get the wrong idea. I don’t want her making assumptions and getting hurt again.”

“Oh, I assure you, I’m not thinking anything. In fact, your relationship with Kagami-san is none of my business…” L started, “but quite frankly, I’m curious. You say you don’t want her to get hurt again and yet, if she were to find out what you were really up to, she would be. Tell me…are you truly in love with her?”

“You’re right, my relationship with Kagami-san is none of your business,” Light retorted. His voice was lighter as he added, “you can think or not think what you want.”

How interesting…it appears I struck a nerve.

“You sound quite offended, Light-kun. You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, but…I think you might’ve just indirectly answered me anyway.”

Based off of how defensive he’s getting, there’s only one answer that makes sense…

“I am in love with her,” Light replied after a moment. There was a slight bitterness in his voice as he added, “I’m in love with Keiko Kagami, not that it’s any of your business.” Afterwards Light paused, almost as though he was a little shocked at his own admittance. L supposed he was, after all, it would be better if Kira were just as emotionless as he was, that way he could kill without complication.

I had a feeling that was the case…and even though I know it’s good Light is in love with her…it hurts. To think, that monster’s in love with her…and she has to pretend to be in love with him as well. Logically, I know it’s the only way for Keiko to carry out her plan…but emotionally…I’ve tried never to let my feelings affect me like this but whenever I see or think about the two of them together…well…perhaps Watari was right…perhaps I am jealous…

Light continued on, “anyway, that’s how I feel. I wouldn’t want to hurt her. I’m sorry for being so abrupt, Ryuzaki-san.”

The detective gave a nod. “It’s quite alright. I’m not offended. After all, I was the one prying into your personal business.”

“Thank you for understanding.” Light headed toward the hallway, “now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be going to bed.”

“Of course. Rest well, Light-kun.”

After Light left the room, all L could think about was his previous conversation with Watari from the other night. It replayed in his mind, plaguing his thoughts. He knew he should have been focusing all of his energy on the investigation, but he found it was becoming increasingly harder to keep Keiko off of his mind.

L closed his eyes and Watari’s words echoed through his head once more, “have you ever considered the possibility that you might be in love with her?”

At this, the detective’s eyes sprung open.

Of course…this time, I was the fool…

The answer had been right in front of him the whole time. He had simply refused to accept it, or rather, he could not bring himself to accept it.

Until now, at least…especially after having such a strong reaction to Light’s confession…there’s no way I can deny it any longer.

His thoughts traced back once more to Keiko; her warm smile, her fierce determination, her fearlessness, even in the face of danger. He had to admit, he was hooked on her. His lips curved upwards absentmindedly, and the realization hit him with full force. The detective’s eyes widened, his heart skipping a beat.

I tried to avoid it all this time, but Watari was right…I love her. I’m in love with Keiko Kagami…