[Main Story 5-1]
Shadow under a camphor tree,
was gently swaying in the wind.
A boy and I leaned against the tree
and closed our eyes.
The boy in a lab coat was awake.
He opened his eyes
and looked at my little figure,
his face mingled with aloofness.
He put his hand on his chest.
Trying to get something out of there.
As I woke up and opened my eyes,
The camphor tree’s still rustling
But under the tree, there was just me.
*Knock, knock, knock* I knocked on my neighbor’s door.
No response.
{{MC}}: Is Lucien not back home yet?
{{MC}}: Seems that researchers have to work overtime sometimes too… I’ll wait.
The studio was commissioned by Loveland TV to make a show to raise awareness in the general public about autism.
We all agreed that professional opinions are very important for a topic that’s not well-understood by most people.
As a result…
Willow: Why do these professors have different opinions? Whom should we listen to?
{{MC}}: These professors are from different research fields. Maybe we should consider all of them…
Willow: How? Some of their suggestions are contradictory to each other! I say let’s give our own take on it!
{{MC}}: No, no, no. This is a complex, nuanced topic. We could easily get something wrong…
{{MC}}: It’s our relationship with Loveland TV that won us the investment from LFG.
{{MC}}: We can’t be too careful about TV assignments.
Willow: Then what should we do?
{{MC}}: Give me some time…
And so, since Professor Lucien was my neighbor, it was my duty to meet with him.
At 8 pm, I opened my door and paid close attention for any sounds coming from across the hall.
{{MC}}: Alright, prepare some questions while waiting for Lucien.
At 10 pm, Miracle Finder ended. I let out a yawn, already sleepy.
{{MC}}: Where did he go…
Sometime that night.
A book splatted onto my face. I had dozed off while on the couch.
The next morning, I woke up on the sofa with a start.
{{MC}}: Oh no! I forgot to close the door!
Yet when I looked at it, it was closed.
{{MC}}: ?
{{MC}}: Is my memory playing tricks on me?
*Knock, knock, knock* I knocked on my neighbor’s door.
No response.
{{MC}}: Did he leave already or did he not come back at all?
I waited for several nights. He never showed up.
I tried to call him but got no response.
{{MC}}: …Is he snowed under with some project? Maybe he’s too busy.
I hesitated and finally decided to call his institute.
Research Center Staff: Professor Lucien? No, he’s not been particularly busy. He’s left at 5 pm every day.
{{MC}}: Oh? Do you happen to know where he goes every day?
Research Center Staff: Uh…I really have no idea.
{{MC}}: Oh, okay. Thanks…
Not working overtime. Then what is he doing all night long?
{{MC}}: I felt I had run into something big…
*Knock, knock, knock* I knocked on my neighbor’s door.
It’s 9 pm. The genius is not home yet.
{{MC}}: Maybe… Lucien just moved somewhere new again?
??: Do you need help, {{mc}}?
I turned around and saw Lucien.
The living, breathing Lucien. I was not hallucinating.
{{MC}}: You’re finally home. I…
Before I finished, he opened the door and walked in.
Lucien: Sorry, but I have to go back out tonight.
Lucien: If there’s something I can help you with, let’s talk later.
Lucien entered his house, grabbed his tablet, walked out, and closed the door.
Lucien: See you later.
He politely said goodbye and left in a hurry.
…before I got the chance to say another word.
What are you up to all night, genius scientist?
[Main Story 5-4]
This late? Where could he be going?
I was wondering if I should follow him.
Follow Him
Forget It
I’m losing sight of him. If I don’t go, I might never know where he’s been…
But if I’m discovered, it’ll be really embarrassing…Who knows what Lucien is doing this late?
But the show can’t be put on hold any longer…
If I let him go tonight, who knows when I’ll get another chance to see him!
Putting on a dark hat, I followed him in secret.
Let the investigation of “The Secret of the Out-All-Night Genius Scientist” begin!
After leaving home, Lucien went to an internet café.
{{MC}}: …”Genius Scientist Addicted to E-sports. Stays Up Trying to Make Champion Tier”…
{{MC}}: ???
Before long, he left there and went to a gym.
{{MC}}: …Internet cafe, then a work out?
But not long after, Lucien walked out again.
{{MC}}: Is 10 minutes enough for a workout?
Lucien went to a theater.
I leaned out from behind a billboard. Lucien was talking with some actors. They seemed quite familiar.
{{MC}}: Lucien knows actors?
Not long after, Lucien and the actors went to a… food stall.
{{MC}}: ???
Lucien: Hi, I’ll have the veggie dish.
Boss: That all?
Lucien: Yes, thanks.
Boss: How about you over there, miss?
When I realized that he was talking to me, I grabbed a flier to cover my face and waved my hand.
Luckily Lucien didn’t look back. Soon he said goodbye to the actors and left the stall.
Then… he went into a bar.
{{MC}}: He’s got quite the nightlife!
{{MC}}: Excuse me! Sorry! Trying to get through…
The loud music rocked my eardrums. I thought I might go deaf at any time.
The dimly-lit place was filled with people. I lost track of Lucien.
My tailing operation succeeded for barely an hour…
I finally shouldered my way out of the bar.
The night breeze blew gently. The streets at night are quite serene.
{{MC}}: Phew, much better now…
Alright. I’d better go home.
I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and stretched my body fully.
I opened my eyes. Lucien was standing right in front of me.
The first thought through my mind is– Oh no, my cover’s blown.
Lucien: What a coincidence!
{{MC}}: Uhh… Yeah…
Lucien looked clean and smooth, as usual. No smell of liquor.
Did he really go into the bar?
{{MC}}: (Murmuring) Maybe I followed the wrong guy…
Lucien: What?
{{MC}}: Ah-ah, nothing. What a coincidence.
Sexy Woman: Hey! We meet again, handsome…
Lucien: Hi.
Lucien said hello to the attractive woman, who blew him a kiss in return and stumbled back into the bar.
{{MC}}: …
I guess he really was in that bar!
I looked at him. He seemed very natural, seemingly thinking nothing was wrong.
Lucien: You were at this bar?
{{MC}}: Uh, yep.
{{MC}}: I came with my co-workers. It’s too noisy for me. Haha.
Lucien: Let me walk you home. It’s late.
{{MC}}: Sure, thanks…
I kept peeking at Lucien all the way home. I really wanted to ask him what he’s been doing all night.
But then he would know I was following him…
Lucien is the genius scientist… who works out, goes to bars, and eats at food stalls at all hours of the night?
This is just too different from the Lucien I know, right?
My thoughts raced as we walked, until I suddenly realized we were at my door.
Lucien: Good night.
{{MC}}: Yeah, you too…
When I closed the door, I heard the sound of the elevator arriving.
{{MC}}: ?
I looked out through the peephole and could see Lucien getting back into the elevator.
{{MC}}: Where is he going now?
{{MC}}: It’s midnight?!
[Main Story 5-6]
15 minutes later, sporting my black hat, I followed Lucien to an all-night movie theater.
I have to see this through!
I stood outside this cinema that’s only open from 11 pm to 5 am, hesitating if I should enter.
{{MC}}: …What kind of movies does an all-night movie theater play anyway?
{{MC}}: Why did Lucien come to this kind of place…
I waited another 15 minutes, but Lucien never came out.
I hesitated and then finally entered the theater.
{{MC}}: Give me the same ticket that man bought just now.
The ticket seller, an advanced mathematics book in hand, was struggling to not fall asleep. He scratched his head at me.
Ticket Seller: Miss, it’s late. This ain’t the kind of place for you.
{{MC}}: …I’m an adult! I can go wherever I please!
{{MC}}: Just give me one of the same ticket that you just sold!
Ticket Seller: …Do you really want to see this kind of movie?
He looked at me dubiously.
{{MC}}: …Just give it to me!
I grabbed the ticket from his hand, paid the money, and entered the theater nervously.
Lucien sat up front, right in the middle. I inconspicuously hid in the last row.
On the screen was a black and white movie playing at a poor frame rate.
It was Audrey Hepburn on the screen.
I took a look at the ticket in my hand.
…World Classic Movie Collection…
{{MC}}: …Why did the ticket seller give me such a look? Trying to give me the wrong idea…
As if he could hear what I was murmuring, Lucien looked back. I quickly lowered my head.
He took out his tablet, writing as he watched.
What… Is he making notes? Is he planning to get into film making?
I looked back and forth between the screen and Lucien, baffled.
It seemed for now he was intent on watching this movie and had no plans to change locations again.
The black and white picture with the old music finally made me fall asleep after all my efforts following Lucien…
??: {{mc}}, wake up. It’s 5 am. Theater’s closing.
I opened my eyes, disoriented, and saw a beautiful neck and… Lucien’s chin.
{{MC}}: ?!
I jumped up in a start, almost tripping over a seat.
Was I just asleep in a movie theater all night?
I looked at Lucien. He was laughing, seeming to find me very amusing.
Lucien: You’re that surprised to see me?
{{MC}}: No, I… Yesterday… It’s…
I scratched my head but still had no idea how to explain.
Lucien: Do you come here to watch movies at night too?
{{MC}}: Ah, yeah… So many classics. The perfect thing to watch in the middle of the night…
Black and white movies are the perfect thing at night… if you’re trying to fall asleep.
Lucien looked at me with his not-quite smile, seemingly enjoying my reaction.
…He seemed to see through my clumsy acting skills.
Lucien: Let’s go. This place is closing.
{{MC}}: Oh, sure.
I walked out. The young ticket seller let out a yawn and prepared to close. He greeted Lucien.
{{MC}}: …You know each other?
Lucien: I come here all the time.
Ticket Seller: Huh? Are you two…?
Ticket Seller: Oh. I see…
He cocked his eyebrows at me, like he understood everything completely.
{{MC}}: What do you “see”? You got the wrong idea!
{{MC}}: …Lucien. Let’s go.
The ticket seller now gave Lucien a look, who then looked at me questioningly.
I pretended to look at the sky and stretch.
{{MC}}: …It’s been a long time since I saw the city at 5 am!
Ticket Seller: So long! See you two again next time? Eh?
I spun back around, dragging Lucien away in the opposite direction.
{{MC}}: What a strange person! I have no idea what he’s talking about. Hahaha!
Lucien: You don’t know what he’s talking about?
{{MC}}: Umm…
Lucien: …Really?…
He must have known something.
Embarrassed, I just hoped he would drop this topic.
Lucien: Did you like the movie last night?
Thank goodness he didn’t press the subject…
{{MC}}: Yeah…It’s beautiful…Roman Holiday, the first one they were showing, is my favorite.
Actually, I only got to watch Roman Holiday before I dozed off…
Lucien: Why did you like it?
{{MC}}: It’s got great narrative pace and cinematography.
{{MC}}: Though it’s black and white, the variation of light and shade in scenes is enjoyable.
{{MC}}: The composition is so good too. Every shot is impeccable!
{{MC}}: To say nothing of the characters!
{{MC}}: The plot and topic are simple, the performances are understated, but it’s classic and thought-provoking.
{{MC}}: Basically a textbook movie! I don’t know how many times I’ve watched it…
As I listed off all the reasons, I found Lucien looking at me, smiling seemingly for no reason.
{{MC}}: Hey, what’s wrong?… Did I say something funny?
Lucien: No, not at all.
{{MC}}: Ah… Sorry, I tend to go on about film-related things…
Lucien: The way you lit up when you talked about it was just really cute to me.
Hearing Lucien say that, I got a little self-conscious.
Lucien: So, did you like the story?
{{MC}}: Yeah… Two people from different worlds have their paths converge.
{{MC}}: Falling in love within 24 hours, a romance in black and white…
{{MC}}: I guess every girl would like to experience a date like this.
Lucien: You included?
{{MC}}: Of course.
Lucien: But they didn’t end up together.
{{MC}}: Yeah. But they grew from the experience.
Lucien: Growth from an irrational emotion. Don’t you feel strange about that?
{{MC}}: Of course not… Haven’t you ever changed yourself for someone you love?
The question seemed to surprise Lucien. His brows lifted.
Lucien: No.
{{MC}}: Oh?
Lucien: I haven’t. Have you?
Yes
No
{{MC}}: Yes… Of course…
Lucien: What’s it like?
{{MC}}: Hmm… Hard to describe…
{{MC}}: Actually even if it’s two people not in love, their being together will inevitably change each other.
Lucien: Then, that applies to us as well.
{{MC}}: Now that I think about it, I actually never experienced it personally…
{{MC}}: But I have the experience of changing for each other while being together, even though love may not be the reason.
Lucien: Then would you change me, if we were together, that is?
{{MC}}: Huh?
Lucien: You wouldn’t?
{{MC}}: Not like that. But that’s not an appropriate way of putting it…
Does Lucien really know what he’s saying?
Lucien looked at me with a smile.
Lucien: Then… I’ll ask again when the time is more appropriate.
(Lucien’s text message: Lucien’s care)
https://mrlove.wiki.gg/wiki/Lucien_SMS:_Lucien%27s_Care
[Main Story 5-7]
After going home and showering, I forced myself to go into the office.
After a whole day of work, my mind is even more cloudy.
Oh man, I really need sleep…
{{MC}}: Ah, sorry to bump into you…
Anna: {{mc}}?! Look at you!
{{MC}}: What?… What’s wrong?
Anna: Those dark circles under your eyes. I know work has been crazy, but get yourself enough rest, alright?
{{MC}}: …Sorry. I’ll be more careful…
{{MC}}: I think I’ll just go nap in the office…
With my face planted on the desk, I fell into slumber.
{{MC}}: (Murmur) I’ll… I’ll never tail Lucien at night again…
Gavin: Tail who?
{{MC}}: ?!
The sudden voice gave me a big start. I lifted my head.
Gavin was standing before my desk, blocking the sunlight from outside.
He looked down at me, his face revealing a hint of danger.
{{MC}}: …Gavin, why are you here?
Gavin: You weren’t answering your phone, so I came to check up on you.
I took out my phone and saw several unanswered calls.
{{MC}}: Sorry, I was too sleepy to notice.
{{MC}}: But, how did you get in here?
The window that was closed is now open. The blowing wind tells me how.
{{MC}}: …
{{MC}}: This is the 19th floor!
Gavin: Should I have knocked on your window first?
{{MC}}: No, I meant… Never mind…
Gavin: Is this a photo of you and your father?
Gavin looked at the photo on my desk.
{{MC}}: Yeah… It’s me and my dad when I was 5.
Gavin picked up the photo.
Gavin: You look thin.
{{MC}}: Uh-huh… I was perhaps a bit under-nourished back then? I can’t really remember.
Gavin: Can I take a picture of it?
{{MC}}: ? Um, sure…
{{MC}}: But why?
Gavin: That’s something I can’t tell you.
Gavin is an Evol special agent, always investigating Evol-related cases.
{{MC}}: Did you come here today just for the photo?
Gavin: There’s one more thing.
Gavin: If you run into anyone you suspect is an Evolver, tell me right away, got it?
{{MC}}: But aren’t you the most suspicious Evolver I know…
One who just breaks into others’ offices through the window…
Gavin: Anyone might hurt you, but I’m the least likely to.
Gavin patted my head gently.
…Okay.
Gavin: Right, gotta go.
Then, Gavin jumped back out through the open window.
Though I knew he wouldn’t get hurt, I was still worried and went to the window to see.
Just like that, he was gone…
Suddenly, Gavin appeared from above, dragging me out of the window in a flash.
{{MC}}: [shock] Ah!!!!!!
Gavin: Is it that scary?
Gavin pulled me into his arms and hung in the air.
{{MC}}: Ahhhhh! I’m scared to death!
Gavin: So you don’t feel sleepy.
{{MC}}: Yes! Yes! Yes! I’m completely awake! Put me back!
Gavin took me back to the office with a smile.
Gavin: Don’t go around tailing people at night. Protect yourself.
Gavin: Come to me if you encounter any danger, alright?
{{MC}}: Got it…
I patted my chest, still scared.
Willow: Boss, who were you talking with?
Willow opened the door and entered.
{{MC}}: Ah? An old schoolmate…
Willow: That handsome one who was on the show? Where is he now?!
I turned my head. Gavin was already gone.
[Main Story 5-10]
{{MC}}: Huh? Nowhere. I was talking to him on the phone.
Willow: Oh… Alright.
Willow: Did you ask Professor Lucien about the show?
{{MC}}: Ah!
{{MC}}: No…
After discovering his colorful night life last night, I totally forgot my original intent…
Oh no… What was I doing last night?
Willow: So what about the show?
{{MC}}: My bad! I’ll make a call to ask now!
I call Lucien’s number.
Doot-doot-doot… The number you have dialed is busy.
{{MC}}: …
Willow: …
{{MC}}: I’ll go to his research center after work!
Willow: Go now!
{{MC}}: Alright, alright. Calm down, okay?
I hurriedly packed things up and left, as much just to get away from the fuming Willow.
Driver: This is the Bioscience Research Center. Miss, where do you want me to pull up?
{{MC}}: Oh? We’re here? Alright…
I fell asleep again in the cab…
{{MC}}: Just pull up to the gate… Wait!
From the cab, I saw Lucien standing right by the gate, seeing out an impeccably-dressed, beautiful girl.
They talked and laughed, seemingly on very good terms.
Driver: Where should…
{{MC}}: Just beside the man there!
After Lucien said goodbye to the girl, he took out his phone to make a call.
The cab stopped beside him. He seemed to look at me, and I quickly rolled up the window.
Lucien: Hi… Of course I remember. I’ll call you right after work.
Lucien: Yes, I’ll be right there. See you soon.
Sounds like a date.
But all my calls were ignored…
{{MC}}: Talking so cordially with that one girl, then right away setting up a date with another?
Is Lucien a professional playboy?
I got lost in thought in the cab.
I thought back over all that happened since I saw him for the first time. He’s quite gentlemanlike.
With some ambiguous turns of phrase though…
{{MC}}: Seems like it really is the case…
Driver: Miss, are you getting out or not?!
Lucien’s car came pulling out from the research center.
{{MC}}: No! Keep going! Follow that car!
The driver wanted to say something, but when he turned around and saw my face, he started the car.
Driver: You mean… that car?
{{MC}}: Yeah! Follow it!
“Post-Work Date: An Up-Close Look at a Genius Scientist”. Back on the case!
He stopped at a flower shop.
Flower Girl: Professor Lucien! Why, hello!
{{MC}}: So you’re on friendly terms with the girl in the flower shop…
Lucien: Hi, I ordered a bouquet.
Flower Girl: Ah, yes! A dozen centauries and a pink rose.
Centaury, isn’t that from Roman Holiday?
Was he watching movies last night as research for his date today?
Lucien: This is for you, thanks.
Lucien gave the pink rose to the flower girl.
Flower Girl: Ah… Thank you!
The flower girl stood at the door, staring at the back of Lucien a long time before she snapped back to herself.
{{MC}}: …
He simply flirts with every girl he meets. What kind of special ability is that?!
Driver: Miss, are you alright?
[Main Story 5-12]
Lucien stopped at an upscale restaurant, the Michelin 3-star I visited before.
I paid and left. The cab let out a roar and rushed away like it was fleeing a scene.
I followed Lucien into the restaurant.
Holding the centauries, Lucien was ushered into a private booth. I could only sit out in the main lobby.
{{MC}}: Who is he dating? I’ve never seen him so solemn.
{{MC}}: He usually seems to have everything well under control, but today he’s being very cautious.
{{MC}}: It must be someone he really values.
What am I doing? Whomever he wants to date, or however many girls he wants to talk to– that’s his business, right?
{{MC}}: I’m being so foolish…
Attendant: Hello, are you Miss {{mc}}?
{{MC}}: Hmm? Yes…?
Attendant: You are tonight’s lucky customer. The prize is a ticket to the fireworks and music festival tonight.
Attendant: It’ll be starting right about when you finish your meal.
{{MC}}: Thank you.
But a fireworks and music festival doesn’t sound like something for someone to go to alone.
{{MC}}: I don’t think I’ll go. Why don’t you give it to someone else?
Attendant: It’s yours now. You can dispose of it as you please.
Attached to the ticket were several sparklers.
I left the ticket on the table.
{{MC}}: The sparklers alone are a pretty pleasant prize.
And I could use some sleep. I didn’t sleep well last night…
No matter who Lucien is dating, it’s pretty certain that he IS dating someone.
{{MC}}: …Never thought he was that kind of person. I’d better keep my distance in the future.
I paid the bill and left the restaurant.
A car pulled up before me.
Lucien: What a coincidence. We meet again.
{{MC}}: Huh?… Weren’t you…?
Weren’t you just on a date with someone in the restaurant?
I looked around and didn’t see anyone else.
Lucien: I also won a ticket to the festival. Shall we go together?
Lucien held up a bouquet of centauries and gave them to me.
{{MC}}: !
{{MC}}: What’s happening?
Baffled, I accepted the bouquet and stood there petrified.
The evening summer breeze blew by, cool and refreshing.
My mind was like a puddle of mud, so hazy that I couldn’t think.
Lucien smiled, seemingly quite happy.
Lucien: It’s alright. Just follow me.
[Main Story 5-14]
I held the bouquet and stood on the curb, not getting into his car.
I tried to clear my head, and finally asked.
{{MC}}: …Are you like this with every girl?
Lucien: Like what?
A day’s worth of bad moods gave me the courage to look into his eyes and speak very seriously.
{{MC}}: Take this as advice from a friend.
{{MC}}: Don’t be so nice to every girl. It can be misleading.
{{MC}}: And if there is someone who cares about you, she would definitely be heartbroken.
{{MC}}: That’s all. I’m leaving.
Having said that, I turned around and left.
Suddenly, Lucien grabbed hold of my hand.
Lucien: Outside my research center, the girl I was talking to was a volunteer in one of my experiments.
Lucien: The phone call I made, was to the girl in the flower shop, to arrange picking up the flowers.
Lucien: The pink rose was for her, because she helped me acquire the bouquet from another shop.
Lucien pulled me back to face him.
Lucien: Does that clear everything up?
{{MC}}: This… Has nothing to do with me.
{{MC}}: …You don’t have to clear anything up with me.
Lucien: But your reaction just now, could we call it “heartbroken”?
{{MC}}: Of course not! I’m just surprised that you would be this kind of person…
Lucien: Really? But all along the way, you seemed very unhappy.
{{MC}}: You… knew I was following you?
Lucien: If I hadn’t known, then I should have booked an eye doctor appointment.
{{MC}}: When did you realize I was…
Lucien: Last night, outside the theatre.
{{MC}}: … Not tonight?
Lucien: I saw you hiding behind the billboard; I just didn’t say hello. Does that bother you?
{{MC}}: No, no, no…
{{MC}}: I’ve been sneaking around following you. I’m sorry…
{{MC}}: I can’t believe I did such a dumb thing… Pretty ridiculous, huh?
Lucien: Ehh, a little.
{{MC}}: Sorry…
Lucien: So, if you want to make it up to me, you have to give me some time tonight.
The centauries rustled in the wind, giving off a faint aroma.
Lucien: And you have no right to refuse.
{{MC}}: …
Next thing I knew, I found myself in Lucien’s car.
I suddenly thought of something.
{{MC}}: …We might be not able to go to that festival.
Lucien: What?
{{MC}}: I left the ticket in the restaurant…
Lucien looked back at me.
When our eyes meet, we laughed aloud.
{{MC}}: Hahahaha.
The car was driving on the highway circling the lake. Outside the window was a wide open space.
My mind somehow opened up too.
The fireworks burst in the night sky.
The sparkles fell onto the lake, and music came wafting across the lake’s surface.
{{MC}}: It’s started! Look over there… How beautiful!
We stopped by a patch of grass beside the lake.
The fireworks were on the other opposite shore. It was remote, like a dream in a crystal ball.
{{MC}}: Lucien, how do you know this place…
Lucien: It’s a bit out-of-the-way.
{{MC}}: But it feels so good having the whole bank to ourselves!
I stepped on the grass and couldn’t help running and jumping.
I turned back and looked at Lucien.
He leaned on the car and lit a sparkler.
The faint fire cast a gentle light on his face.
I walked toward him and kindled one too. The little dancing fire lit up the small world in our hands.
I held the sparkler before my eyes. It was a fireworks show as grand as that beyond the lake.
{{MC}}: It’s been quite a long time since I watched fireworks.
Lucien: Do you like it?
{{MC}}: Yeah, you?
Lucien: They’re nothing special.
{{MC}}: Is that so…
Lucien: What matters is not what you’re watching, but who you’re watching it with.
Lucien: Isn’t that how the expression goes?
I turned around and found Lucien had been looking at me, his eyes twinkling in the light of the sparkler.
The glimmer in his eye quivered faintly, hard to make head or tail of.
And I don’t know why, but I felt no warmth from that light.
{{MC}}: Lucien, do you go to so many strange places every night?
The question had been hovering in my mind for too long. I jumped on the chance to ask it.
Lucien: You think those places strange?
{{MC}}: Well, I don’t mean that…
{{MC}}: But you went to so many places and stayed only a while in each. It wasn’t for fun, was it?
Lucien: What do you think I’m doing?
{{MC}}: Well, I have no idea…
{{MC}}: Could it be… Observing human behavior?
Lucien: Mmhmm.
{{MC}}: Oh?
The idea of fun for a neuroscientist is surely different from that of a regular person…
Lucien: Everyone’s thoughts, lives, and ways of thinking are different. Sense, interwoven with sensibility. Don’t you think that’s interesting?
{{MC}}: So, what about watching movies?
Lucien: Movies are a kind of distillation and collection of human lives and experiences. It’s a part of my research materials.
{{MC}}: …and going out having fun with me, that’s research too?
I always feel a distance when we’re together, so maybe the reason is… he sees me as a subject?
Lucien: I actually do want to research you.
{{MC}}: …
Lucien: But when I’m with you, I always forget the research.
Lucien turned to look at me.
Lucien: …Why is that? Can you tell me?
…Why? How am I supposed to know that?
The little sparkler in my hand went out. The bank went dark again in the night.
Music came from afar in the night wind, cozy and gentle.
[Main Story 5-16]
The morning sunshine warmly caresses my face.
I wake up in a daze and find myself staring at an unfamiliar ceiling.
When did I change the light fixture in my bedroom?
{{MC}}: ?
I sit up and rub my eyes in confusion.
Lucien: You’re awake?
{{MC}}: Um.
{{MC}}: ???
{{MC}}: [shock] !!!
{{MC}}: [shock] What are you doing here?!
I reflexively pulled the blanket up to cover myself.
I shook my head hard to try to clear my mind.
What’s going on?…
Lucien: This is my room, and of course I’m here.
Lucien put his tablet down so he could give me his undivided attention.
{{MC}}: ……………………………[shock] Ahhhhhhh!
I sat up on the couch in a stupor, not knowing how to react.
How did I end up in Lucien’s room?
{{MC}}: We went to see the fireworks last night…
Lucien: Yes.
{{MC}}: And then didn’t we light up some sparklers?
Lucien: Yes, we did. It was fun.
{{MC}}: Then what? How come I don’t remember anything after that?
Lucien: You’re probably just tired, is all. You even fell asleep on the grass last night.
{{MC}}: I did?
Spending two straight nights with Lucien, plus working all day, of course I’d be tired.
Lucien: So, just like the reporter in “Roman Holiday”, I carried you back home and put you on my couch.
{{MC}}: I see… Then what happened?
That made Lucien laugh.
Lucien: Don’t you remember?
Nope, not at all…
{{MC}}: I’ve never just fallen asleep without being able to remember like this.
The whole experience feels so strange to me.
As if I was controlled by some supernatural force.
But how could that be possible?
I shook my head and tried to put such thoughts out of my mind.
{{MC}}: Sorry to have troubled you…
Lucien: No worries. Now we share many precious memories.
What do you mean, precious memory?
{{MC}}: Did you and me… we… last night…
Lucien: I didn’t sleep at all.
What does that mean?
{{MC}}: I, uh, should go now…
My mind felt like it was stuck in mud. I couldn’t hope to think straight.
Regardless, spending the night in the home of a single guy! This is just too much!
Lucien crouched down to help me pick up my shoes and looked up at me.
Lucien: You were fast asleep on the couch, and I was going over files the whole time. Nothing happened.
{{MC}}: Really?
Lucien: Let me put it this way: What do you wish would’ve happened?
{{MC}}: …
He moved in closer. I could feel his scent all around me.
The scent of Lucien…
I shook my head rapidly.
{{MC}}: No, I, uh, don’t want anything to happen…
Lucien: Just let me know if there’s anything I can do for you.
…
Lucien handed me my coat.
I grabbed it quickly.
{{MC}}: That’s, uh, very nice of you, but I can, uh, take it from here, thanks.
Lucien: Can you?
I slipped into my shoes and past Lucien.
{{MC}}: I’ll be leaving now.
Lucien: See you next time.
Lucien stood up to see me out with a smile.
He’s an absolute temptation! I ought to keep my distance!
I grabbed my belongings and stumbled out of his place.
Just then, my cell phone rang.
{{MC}}: Hello? Oh, what’s up, Willow?
I was fumbling for keys when she called.
Willow: I’ve been trying to reach you all night! How come you didn’t pick up?
Willow: And I know you weren’t home!
Willow: Tell me, where were you?!
{{MC}}: Well, uh, I had stuff to do! I gotta run, is there anything else?
Oh boy, guess they know I stayed out all night at work now…
Finally, I found the keys in my purse.
Willow: Don’t tell me you forgot to talk to Lucien about the show on autism!
{{MC}}: Oh no, I did forget!
The keys crashed onto the ground in a loud clatter.
[Main Story 5-17]
I had left Lucien’s place not even 3 minutes before I knocked on his door again.
Lucien: Did you leave something here?
{{MC}}: Actually, there was something I meant to ask you about last night…
Lucien: Didn’t you say you could “take it from here”?
…that was in a totally different context!
I was both embarrassed and flustered. I hadn’t even combed my hair yet! Definitely didn’t feel on top of things….
Lucien, though, was his usual composed, spiffy self, just staring at me, amused.
Lucien: I’ll stop teasing you. Come on in and let’s talk.
Why do I always end up humiliating myself when I’m with him?
He offered me coffee as I sat precariously on the couch like I could fall off any moment.
Lucien: So, you’re going to do a show on autism spectrum disorder?
{{MC}}: Yeah, but no one on the production team is an expert on it, and it’s such a wide-ranging topic.
{{MC}}: We’re having a hard time finding an approach that’s both accessible and accurate.
{{MC}}: So we thought we’d turn to you…
Lucien: Is that why you’ve been waiting for me to come home?
{{MC}}: How did you know?
Lucien: Falling asleep with the door wide open…
{{MC}}: No wonder!
I was sure the door was open that night, but it was shut when I woke up!
{{MC}}: Thank you… for closing it for me.
Lucien: So you wanted to see me just for a show.
{{MC}}: No… I mean, I had such a great time with you that I completely forgot about it.
No idea why I felt the need to explain myself so much to Lucien…
He gently patted me on the shoulder.
Lucien: I want to take you to a place.
{{MC}}: Where?
Lucien: A place that will be a big help in making your show.
I returned home to freshen up, then got on a bus with Lucien heading out of town.
{{MC}}: Okay, where we going?
Lucien: Are you afraid I’m taking you somewhere dangerous?
{{MC}}: No, not one bit…
We got off at an orphanage in the suburbs.
The orphans swarmed Lucien as soon as they saw him coming.
Little Boy: It’s Lucien! Can you finish the story you were telling me last time?
Little Girl: I knew you were coming today!
As Lucien greeted the kids, he introduced me.
Lucien: All right everyone, I have a guest with me today, so all of you be nice to her!
{{MC}}: Hi, kids! It’s my first time visiting…
Naughty Boy: Are you Lucien’s girlfriend?
{{MC}}: What? Uh, no… I’m, uh, not…
Little Girl: Of course not, I’M his girlfriend!
The kids all roared with laughter.
And I started giggling too, slightly embarrassed.
I snuck a glance at Lucien and our eyes locked.
Oh no, he caught me peeking!
Quickly, I turned away.
After we finally parted with the children, Lucien took me to see the orphanage director.
President: Seeing as the professor referred you, I’ll be happy to let you film here!
President: But I’d appreciate it if you would maintain the anonymity of the orphanage and the kids to avoid any disturbance.
{{MC}}: You don’t have to worry about that, and thank you for helping us out!
Lucien just made shooting the show so much easier!
Lucien: Shall we go check out the special needs classroom to see some of the kids?
{{MC}}: Can we?
Lucien: Let’s go.
We left the director’s office and headed for their classroom.
It was very tranquil. The children were wholeheartedly focused on their work.
I couldn’t help but tread lightly as I entered the classroom.
{{MC}}: Wow, did you draw this? It’s so pretty!
I blurted out a compliment when I saw a boy drawing a beautiful, starry sky.
He looked at me, then ran off.
{{MC}}: Oh, I’m so sorry!
I realized I shouldn’t have spoken so loud like that and covered my mouth.
Lucien: It’s okay. After some time, you’ll learn their personalities. That boy is particularly shy.
We exited the classroom and sat on a bench outside.
It was an especially quiet, suburban afternoon. The rustling of trees in the breeze was the only noise.
The serene surroundings made me close my eyes and relax.
Lucien: You seem to be enjoying this place.
The breeze brushed Lucien’s hair aside to make his hazel eyes seem warmer.
{{MC}}: Yeah. This isn’t too far from the city, but still I’m losing myself in it.
Lucien: We can come here anytime, if you like.
{{MC}}: I just saw they’re taking volunteers. I think I’ll sign up!
Lucien laughed, his face in profile particularly attractive.
{{MC}}: …
Lucien: What?
{{MC}}: Nothing, nothing at all…
{{MC}}: The boy’s stunning portrayal of stars had a unique perspective and realism.
I swiftly changed the topic.
Lucien: Among those with autism, about 10% have savant syndrome to some degree, with incredible abilities in things like art, music, or math.
Lucien: That boy was one of the savants.
{{MC}}: You mean like a prodigy?
Lucien: You could say that. Since its founding, this orphanage has offered specialized education for autistic children.
Lucien: Many children have left here and excelled in various fields.
{{MC}}: That sounds like great material for a show! Any famous examples?
Lucien: Well, there was one autistic child with a tremendous talent for music, then…
{{MC}}: He became a musician?
Lucien: No, an entertainer.
{{MC}}: Did I hear that right, an entertainer?
Lucien: You did.
{{MC}}: Don’t autistic kids find socializing difficult? How did he do it?
Lucien: Many real-life stories are stranger than fiction.
I nodded, not quite understanding everything.
[Main Story 5-19]
Camphor trees rustled in the warm breeze of a languid afternoon…
I couldn’t hold in a yawn and felt like taking a nap.
Lucien: You can lay your head on my shoulder if you like.
{{MC}}: Nah, it’s just that it’s the perfect weather for an afternoon nap.
Lucien sitting next to me sure was in good spirits.
But how is he not tired from not sleeping at night?
Lucien: You seem like you have something you want to ask me.
Seeing my denial, Lucien grinned and said nothing more.
Why didn’t he ask again? A normal person usually would…
{{MC}}: Well, yeah, I was wondering…
{{MC}}: …Yes
{{MC}}: When was the last time you slept?
Lucien: Why do you ask?
{{MC}}: Just curious.
He paused to ponder a bit before replying.
Lucien: Three days ago.
{{MC}}: Three days?
Lucien: Yes.
{{MC}}: Why don’t you sleep? Do you have insomnia?
He laughed resignedly at that.
Lucien: No, I don’t. I don’t like wasting time on something so unimportant.
{{MC}}: What?! You’re going to collapse sooner than later like that!
{{MC}}: You’re a neuroscientist, so you should know how vital sleep is for the brain!
Lucien: I do, but I’m all right.
{{MC}}: All right? What does that mean?
Lucien: It is what it is. I can’t say more about it.
{{MC}}: That can’t be all right…
Everyone needs sleep!
Just then, a bell rang throughout the orphanage.
Broadcast: “All right, kids, time for a nap in the dorm!”
I made a decision in my mind.
{{MC}}: Hear that? Time for a nap!
I stood up and looked back at Lucien.
{{MC}}: C’mon, let’s go take a siesta.
He grinned at me, held a hand out, but showed no sign of moving.
I hesitated, then pulled his hand. Still, he didn’t budge from his seat.
He pulled his hand back, causing me to lose balance and stumble.
And almost plow right into him.
{{MC}}: …
Lucien: Sorry, guess I accidentally pulled back a bit too hard. Are you okay?
His face was inches from mine, his eyes twinkling.
…How could this be accidental?
{{MC}}: Ahem. Let’s go.
Lucien: Where?
{{MC}}: Just follow me.
The school was empty as the orphans went back to the dorms for a nap.
Lucien and I walked into a vacant classroom.
{{MC}}: Let’s take a nap in here.
Lucien: Here? How?
{{MC}}: Just lay your head on the desk.
I sat him down at a desk.
Lucien: Like this?
He leaned on the desk and looked at me sideways.
{{MC}}: Close your eyes and stop talking.
He closed his eyes but perked up the edges of his lips.
The afternoon breeze wafted through the empty classroom.
I closed my eyes too and tried to sleep.
But… I just couldn’t.
As if something was stirring inside and keeping me up.
Must be because I slept so well last night.
My mind went into a frenzy again as I recalled the night before.
I slowly opened my eyes and glanced at Lucien next to me.
His even breath and relaxed demeanor was a change from usual.
He sure fell asleep fast!
{{MC}}: (whispering) You must be really tired.
Research, the summit, helping me with my show… No wonder you don’t sleep.
His long eyelashes danced ever-so-slightly with every breath.
{{MC}}: (whispering) You look different when you’re sleeping.
And I gradually fell asleep myself.
I was roused awake by raucous laughter.
I opened my eyes to children all around us, pointing and giggling.
Lucien: You’re awake?
Lucien was still next to me, reaching to brush my hair away from my face.
Little Boy: [shock] Ha, we caught Lucien sleeping with his girlfriend in class!
{{MC}}: It was just a nap!
Little Girl: No, Lucien is my boyfriend, I’m supposed to sleep with him!
{{MC}}: Wait, no, it’s not what you think…
The commotion made me look to Lucien for help.
But he chose to just sit back and enjoy my predicament.
Teacher: [shock] All right, quiet down, children. It’s time for class to begin!
Little Boy: Teacher, teacher, Lucien and his girlfriend were sleeping in here!
{{MC}}: No, that’s not what happened! Please let me explain…
I stepped forward to explain myself but that seemed to only rile them up even more.
Lucien: Excuse us, we must be going.
Lucien waited till now to get up and take me by the hand.
Little Boy: [shock] Hey, they’re holding hands!
Little Girl: No!
Little Boy: You’re not Lucien’s girlfriend, you’re not Lucien’s girlfriend…
I let go of his hand in a hurry.
{{MC}}: No, this is not what it looks like…
Lucien nodded to the teacher and held my hand again.
{{MC}}: …
The teacher was visibly taken aback watching us leave.
How did this happen?
{{MC}}: I could die from embarrassment.
I let go of Lucien and covered my face.
Lucien: Is there something wrong with what I did?
{{MC}}: Yes, everything!
{{MC}}: Now I’m going to be too embarrassed to come here again!
Lucien: I’ll come with you.
{{MC}}: That’s even worse!
I frowned angrily at him.
Lucien: …
He grew quiet and stared back at me.
With a look of alienation on his face.
{{MC}}: …
{{MC}}: I… Let me go check if the bus is here.
I turned and ran off.
The camphor leaves whistled in the afternoon breeze, in harmony with the chirping of summer birds.
Lucien stood alone in the courtyard, frozen in his own thoughts.
A strange feeling was creeping up inside him.
He knitted his brows and tried to rid his mind of it.
The breeze and the chirping died down. All became quiet.
It was summertime, but the leaves suddenly rustled onto the ground.
I stood at the bus stop outside the orphanage and was struck with a foreboding feeling.
(Gavin’s phone call: Program Discussion)
[Main Story 5-21]
For days thereafter, I dedicated myself to producing the show.
{{MC}}: I was lucky to have Lucien’s help, otherwise the show never would’ve worked.
Willow: What’s that about Lucien?
{{MC}}: You’ve got pretty good hearing…
Willow: We got the show all figured out, so of course, I got time for gossip.
{{MC}}: I was just wondering if the show on autism is… well, too banal?
Willow: What do you mean? We’re practically done with the script!
{{MC}}: Relax. What I meant was the style and substance both felt simple to me.
{{MC}}: What is autism spectrum disorder, what’s the state of current research…
{{MC}}: How does the orphanage run its special needs program, tips for interacting with autistic children…
{{MC}}: It makes me want to switch the channel just talking about it.
Willow: C’mon, why didn’t you say this sooner? We gotta turn it in for Loveland’s approval tomorrow!
{{MC}}: Okay, only saying how I feel, is all.
{{MC}}: I’m realistic enough to know there’s no time for a rewrite now.
Willow: Good, because I was going to resign if you made me do one!
Kiki: [shock] Where is she? Anybody seen the boss?
Kiki barged into the editing room, and I immediately tensed up.
It was never a good thing when she was so desperate to find me like this.
{{MC}}: What now? Does it have to involve me?
Kiki: [shock] I’m afraid so. Something terrible’s happened!
Willow: Every little thing seems like the end of the world if you’re young and inexperienced.
Willow made herself a coffee and calmly plopped down on the couch.
Kiki: The preview for the autism show was leaked!
That made Willow drop her mug, shattering it all over the floor.
Willow: What? Run that by me again?
{{MC}}: How could that happen? We’re not even done with the preview yet!
Kiki: The leak’s an unfinished, unedited version!
Kiki: One without the names of the orphanage and kids blotted out!
Willow: And we still haven’t received approval from Loveland TV!
{{MC}}: What?
I felt the blood drain from my whole body, like I could faint anytime.
Kiki: It’s all over the net that we’re exploiting children with autism for publicity and profit…
Then my cell phone started to ring nonstop.
It showed calls from the Approval Committee, followed by the orphanage director.
{{MC}}: Oh my God, why is this happening?
Kiro sat in a dark room, pounding away on a keyboard, all the devices in his room buzzing to life in the night.
A humongous network was quietly being assembled.
“Ding!”
A cell phone next to him lit up.
He stopped tapping and glanced at the screen.
“Miracle Company Backstabs Twin Leaves Orphanage, Exploiting Kids with Autism”
As he scanned the headline, his face slowly broke into a frown.
Moonlight shone on the barred windows. Over ten years, but the orphanage was still standing.
Gavin held up a photo of a girl and an old man to the building and found the matching room.
He walked into the room and gazed at the moon outside the window.
The dim moonlight entered through the small window.
It seemed to flicker a bit.
The static sound of an interrupted signal over a walkie-talkie.
Gavin straightened himself up, a grim and piercing look in his eyes.
Countless silhouettes slowly crowded around him in the room.