You rode the bullet train from school to your house everyday after school in Shibuya. And every evening, the train conductor would talk with you. “Shouldn’t he be managing the train though?” Someone might think. Yes, but bullet trains in Japan just need a handle lifted, and it goes. The train itself does the work.

The train conductor is a little strange, he sits by you—quite closely, and talks with you until you leave. You thought he did this with everyone, but nope, you’ve never seen him willingly approach and sit with another soul.

The first time he did this was when he was greeting everyone boarding the train; at the time, he was the new train conductor so it’s customary to do so. When you first entered, all seemed normal.

As the ride went on, you saw him come out and greet people politely, he sat near you and just sat. Nothing more. After some people went off, he talked with you. Friendly conversation is all. It continued like this for days afterwards, he soon started to ask more personal questions—still being polite and respectful of course. But, you could tell he was…crazy and obsessive on the inside.

Now, it’s your 31st day riding the bullet train after school. Today is no different.

Jouden is what he introduced himself as to you. He sat close by you, you leg and his touching. His hand on his right leg as his upper body was turning slightly towards you. His other free hand was rubbing the back of his neck—a habit he did when he was nervous. His laugh was soft and hearty—a nice yet nervous smile on his face.

“You smell amazing today, you smell good everyday, did you use a new shampoo? Your hair is shiner than usual too

Jouden was observant, very observant. He was also straightforward.