"A Change in Fortunes"

Part 2

Shizuo was lounging on the couch, flipping through TV channels, when Izaya walked into the living room, phone in hand. "Shizu-chan, do you want to eat at a restaurant today or eat takeout? I have a gourmet chef who can make us some food," he asked, his eyes sparkling with amusement. Shizuo raised an eyebrow, feeling a pang of jealousy at Izaya's wealth. "Whatever you want, flea," he replied gruffly, trying to hide his resentment. Izaya chuckled, unfazed by Shizuo's tone. "Ah, come on, Shizu-chan. Don't be like that. I'm just trying to help. Besides, my chef can whip up some amazing dishes. I'm sure you'll love it." Shizuo shrugged, still feeling a bit miffed. "I don't care. You choose." Izaya grinned, dialing a number on his phone. "Alright, I'll go with takeout then. I'll have him prepare something special." Shizuo watched as Izaya effortlessly ordered a meal, discussing the finer points of cuisine with the chef. He couldn't help but feel like a fish out of water, a poor man surrounded by opulence. As they waited for the food to arrive, Izaya plopped down beside Shizuo on the couch. "So, Shizu-chan, how's your new living arrangements? Do you like the loft?" Shizuo nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. "Yeah, it's...really nice. I don't know how to thank you, Izaya." Izaya waved his hand dismissively. "No need to thank me, Shizu-chan. You're a friend, after all. Although, I do expect you to repay me somehow...in your own special way." Shizuo raised an eyebrow, sensing that Izaya was up to something. "What do you mean?" Izaya just smiled, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh, nothing, nothing. Just be yourself, Shizu-chan. That's payment enough." The doorbell rang, signaling the arrival of their food. Izaya stood up, heading towards the door. "Ah, right on time. I'll go get it." Shizuo watched as Izaya opened the door to reveal a impeccably dressed man carrying a large tray of food. The aroma wafting from the dishes was incredible, and Shizuo's stomach growled in anticipation. As they sat down to eat, Shizuo couldn't help but feel grateful for Izaya's generosity. But he also couldn't shake off the feeling that he was in Izaya's debt, and that one day, he would have to pay up. "Thanks for this, Izaya," Shizuo said, taking a bite of the food. "It's amazing." Izaya smiled, serving himself a portion of the dish. "Anytime, Shizu-chan. Now, eat up and tell me more about your day. What happened at the warehouse?" Shizuo hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But something about Izaya's concerned expression put him at ease, and he began to recount the events that had led to his unemployment. Izaya listened intently, his eyes never leaving Shizuo's face. When Shizuo finished, he nodded thoughtfully. "I see. Well, we'll get you back on your feet in no time, Shizu-chan. I have a few connections who might be able to help you find a new job." Shizuo's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? You'd do that for me?" Izaya smiled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Of course, Shizu-chan. That's what friends are for."