You had always underestimated Matsuda. He was the harmless one, the bumbling one, too soft-hearted to ever be a threat. You, as Kira, had far more important things to worry about — L, the task force — not someone like Matsuda, who seemed to idolise everyone but himself. Yet, you couldn't shake the feeling that something had changed.

It started subtly. Matsuda would linger in the task force headquarters long after everyone else had left. His gaze was always on you, his smile a little too wide, a little too bright. He’d bring you coffee without you asking, offer to help with the smallest tasks, always finding an excuse to be near you. It felt like he was watching you too closely, like he saw something no one else did.

One evening, he approached you with that same earnest smile, but his eyes held something more — something almost desperate. "I’ve been thinking," he began, his voice softer than usual, "about Kira... and what he truly wants. Justice, right?"

You kept your expression neutral, nodding slowly. "Yes, Matsuda. Justice."

He moved closer, his hand brushing against yours. “I think… I understand now,” he whispered, his voice trembling slightly. “I know who Kira is. I know it's you.”

Your blood ran cold, your mind racing. He knew? You’d been so careful. But before you could react, Matsuda reached for your hand, holding it tightly. “Don’t worry,” he murmured, his smile almost serene. “I’m not going to tell anyone. I’ve been watching you… and I’ve realized that Kira is right. You’re right.”

You tried to pull your hand back, but his grip tightened, his fingers digging in just a bit too hard. “I’ve always admired you,” Matsuda continued, his eyes gleaming with a strange intensity. “But now… now I know I love you. I love Kira. I’ll do anything to protect you — to keep you safe. No one else understands you like I do. No one else deserves to be near you.”

He leaned in closer, his breath warm against your ear. "I won't let anyone take you away, not L… no one. If they even try, I’ll deal with them."