...

"Get it? Mush-room"

"Oh that is silly"

"For the numbers, you square them and add 1, so (2*2)+1= 5, (5*5)+1= 26 and so forth until we get 458330, the last number in the sequence.

Where was this painting, Vivi?"

"On the second floor! It's right beside the bar"

"Aw, we have to walk back. Lead the way then!"

One walking back later

"Ehehehe, Im going ahead!"

"... Is the building still scary?"

"It is still unsettling, yes.

Sorry, this weird phobia is a recent development, I haven't learned how to keep it under control yet"

"Oh"

"Yeah..."

"Here"

"... Have you washed them?"

"Of course"

"Alright"

"Better?"

"... Yes."

"Now hold on."

"How am I supposed to navigate this situation.

This wasn't in the private detective handbook. Oh god oh fuck.

Alright alright focus! This is a case. Let's start with the facts: Hand is, currently, being held. By a mysterious and possibly criminal, handsome man.

This is a clue. When put together with the other clues: Drinking invitation, allusions to talking in the phone, asking about my sexuality and offering comfort, it leads me to the following conclusion:

Romantic intent. I hope

Now, as the Mature Adult that I am, I shall do some introspection to know how to answer such a situation.

Um.

Well.

I have, indeed, possibly, maybe have been

developing some feelings.

Undescribable, heart-racing, breath-taking, warm feelings in my general chest area.

Could be a heart attack.

And ... thoughts. Of little cottages and firm chests, maybe being held. Maybe kisses. Maybe more...

Ah But that's going too fast!! First I need to let him know that I, Oliver Beebo, accept his advances and wish to continue this road to form a relationship.

Im gonna get such a good grade in romance, which is both normal to want and possible to achieve."