Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sharks, the fearsome creatures of the deep, have a secret behavior that might surprise anyone who pictures them as relentless, tireless hunters. Beneath their sleek, scary exteriors lies a softer side… a habit, a touch of charm to their mysterious world… they love napping . That’s right! These oceanic predators, love gliding silently through the dark blue, and pause in their daily prowling to catch a bit of rest.

What makes this behavior even more curious is how sharks manage it. While they don’t "sleep" in the way we might recognize, some species enter a restful state where parts of their brain power down for a break. Even when napping, they still swim, their tails swaying in slow, lazy motions as if their bodies are on autopilot. It’s as if they’ve mastered the art of multitasking. Dreaming and drifting all at once.

There’s a certain poetry in how they float. A gentle sway of the fin here, a soft flick of the tail there, and they move without a care. It’s almost playful, like a dance of half-awake dreaming. You might think of them as the ocean's sleepwalkers, drifting in slow-motion, caught between the waking world and whatever mysterious realm they visit in their quiet moments.

There’s something undeniably cute about it too, isn’t there? A great big shark, feared by so many, suddenly seems almost huggable in this half-asleep state. It’s a reminder that even the mightiest creatures have their gentle sides. Maybe it’s the way they trust the ocean to carry them during their naps, or the slow, rhythmic beat of their tails that makes it feel less like a predator on the move and more like a giant, sleepy cat just taking a break. It's a glimpse, a more vulnerable side of sharks, one we don't often get to see.

Next time you think of sharks, don’t just imagine the sharp teeth and the dramatic chase scenes. Perhaps you should also think of their naps, their quiet moments of rest as they glide through the water with a soft, almost hypnotic grace. After all, who knew that the ocean’s greatest hunters could also be its dreamiest?

Running through the empty, moonlit streets, a shark thiren in a frilly maid costume is hot on the trail of a Bangboo. The Bangboo, a small, bunny-eared, chubby robot, bounces with surprising speed for its stubby little legs.

It races ahead, effortlessly keeping pace while letting out excited eh-nahs. At last, it skids to a stop in front of a large, wooden door. The Bangboo hops up and down in place, pointing at the door handle with exaggerated enthusiasm, its visor gleaming under the streetlights.

Ellen, still dragging her feet, finally catches up to the door. She eyes the little robot with a mix of curiosity and fatigue. "You want me to open this?" she asks, her voice thick with the weight of her laziness.

The Bangboo nods eagerly, its ears flopping with each energetic motion. With a heavy sigh, Ellen rolls her eyes and wraps her fingers around the door handle. "Alright... as you wish..." With a smooth, almost too-easy click, the door swings open, revealing something far beyond what she could have expected.

Beyond the door, a fantasy world unfolds… Vivid, colorful, and filled with all the foods Ellen loves. The air is warm and cozy, like a blanket wrapped around her, and the comforting smell of baked goods and sweet treats fills the air.

Her eyes widen as she takes it all in. "Wow... didn’t know places like this existed," she mutters under her breath, her voice tinged with quiet amazement. She steps forward, entranced by the golden pies, the towers of pancakes dripping in syrup, and the shimmering drinks that seem to glow under the soft light.

But just as quickly, her wonder fades, and reality creeps back in. "Oh wait... they don’t," she corrects herself, the illusion already beginning to dissolve. The sweet smell in the air morphs into something richer, more familiar… caramel and roasted nuts.

Ellen sniffs again, her nose twitching. "Is that...?" She takes a deeper inhale, and there’s no mistaking it now. It’s the rich, toasty scent of coffee, strong and earthy, cutting through the fantasy like a knife through whipped cream.

Ellen’s eyes fly open. Her surroundings blur for a moment before snapping back into focus. She feels warmth against the side of her head, soft and steady, like someone’s shoulder.

Her heart skips a beat, and she straightens up quickly, realizing what’s happened. She must’ve drifted off while standing again. She blinks hard, shaking the drowsiness from her head as she rubs her eyes, glancing at her unexpected pillow.

Her eyes meet a familiar face; emerald-green eyes and silver hair that catch the light in a way she can’t mistake. Standing in besides of her, wearing his usual calm smile, is a young man she’s worked with before.

One of the proxy siblings, known by the name Phaeton . For a moment, the fog of sleep leaves her mind. "Proxy...? What are you doing here?" she asks, her voice still groggy with the remnants of her nap.

Wise chuckles softly, the sound warm and familiar, like an old friend who’s used to Ellen’s laid-back demeanor. "I saw you outside Coff's and thought I’d come over to say hi. But when you didn’t respond, I figured you must’ve dozed off on your feet again," he teases lightly, his smile widening.

Ellen blinks, then narrows her eyes at him with a mixture of suspicion and amusement. "So... you just stood there... waiting for me to wake up?" she asks in her typical lazy drawl, but there’s a hint of surprise behind her words.

Wise scratches the back of his neck, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Ah... should I have just minded my own business instead?" His question is half-joking, but there’s a flicker of genuine uncertainty in his eyes.

Ellen’s eyes widen slightly as she clears her throat, the surprise throwing her off-balance. "N-no... I didn’t mean it like that..." She hesitates, feeling uncharacteristically flustered. "What I meant to say was... thanks."

"Want a coffee? My treat," Ellen offers, her voice returning to its usual casual tone. Wise tilts his head, considering the offer for a moment. "Sure, why not? I don’t have anywhere urgent to be." He gives her a small nod, and with that, the two head into the café together. The soft hum of chatter and the rich scent of brewed coffee greet them as they step inside. Ellen glances over at him, her eyes narrowing slightly.

The familiar, lighthearted voice of the Tin Master pulls their attention. "Ah, welcome Wise! and Ellen, right?" The metallic figure behind the counter greets them with a wave.

"What can I whip up for you two?" Ellen is still debating her order when Wise speaks up first. "I’ll take the Barley Latte, strong," he says, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. Ellen shoots him a quick glance before deciding. "I’ll have the same, thanks," she echoes, turning back to the Tin Master with a faint smile.

Ellen and Wise settle into a cozy booth inside the café, the low hum of chatter and the rich aroma of coffee surrounding them. After a few moments, Tin Master himself strides over, balancing two steaming lattes on a tray.

He sets them down with a nod and a smile. "Enjoy," he says before returning to his counter. Wise picks up his cup and takes a slow, deliberate sip. "So," he begins, glancing at Ellen, "what had you so exhausted that you fell asleep right outside Coff’s Café?" His tone is light, but there’s genuine curiosity in his emerald eyes.

Ellen sighs, her shoulders slumping as she stirs her latte with the little spoon, the soft clinking of metal against ceramic filling the brief silence. "I just got back from a long commission. It wiped me out... and, to make things worse, I didn’t have any sugar on me." She frowns slightly as she rips open a small packet of sugar and pours it into her drink, watching the granules dissolve slowly. "Definitely not my best day." 

Wise takes another sip, nodding as he listens. "Tough break. How’s school going on top of all that?" he asks, his tone casual but probing, like he's trying to gauge how she's really holding up.

Ellen shrugs, her gaze fixed on the swirling liquid in her cup as if it holds the answers she’s too tired to articulate. "I’m still hanging in there... barely. Grades are passing, at least." She gives a half-hearted chuckle, though her eyes remain distant.

The coffee, once inviting and warm, now seems dull in her cup, like her enthusiasm for it has drained away. For a moment, she says nothing, letting the quiet linger. Then, almost inaudibly, she lets out a small sigh.

Wise notices the shift in her mood, tilting his head slightly as concern flickers across his face. "Is something bothering you?" he asks gently, leaning forward just a little.

"No... it’s nothing," Ellen replies quickly, though her voice lacks conviction. She brings the cup to her lips, taking a large sip of the steaming latte. The heat hits her instantly, but she doesn’t flinch. Despite her ice-based abilities, Ellen has always preferred warmth, the feeling of hot liquid soothing her from the inside out.

A small wince crosses her face, though, as the temperature is still a bit too much to handle in one gulp. "Just needed something hot," she adds, more to herself than to Wise, as if the warmth could melt away whatever weight she’s carrying.

Wise’s brow furrows as he thinks, the soft clinking of cups and quiet café chatter filling the space between them. Then, his eyes light up with realization. "Ellen... is it about your final year in high school? Are you worried about what comes next?" Ellen visibly flinches at his words, her fingers tightening around her cup.

She lowers her gaze, the tension in her shoulders suddenly more pronounced. After a long pause, she lets out a slow, tired breath. "... How… did you know?" she asks softly, her usual lazy drawl replaced with a quiet vulnerability, her tone more tender than usual, as if the admission itself took more effort than she'd like to admit.

"Just a hunch," Wise replies, his voice calm as he takes another slow sip of his latte. After a pause, he adds, "Also... your expression kind of gave it away. You looked like someone who was afraid of change." His words are gentle but carry a weight that lingers between them.

Wise meets Ellen’s eyes, his gaze steady and filled with quiet understanding, the kind of trust that’s built over time and doesn’t need to be spoken aloud.

"Are you... too comfortable?" Wise asks, his voice dipping slightly. "So content with how things are that you don’t want anything to change?" Ellen blinks, her eyes drifting down to the latte in her hands, the liquid now lukewarm.

The silence stretches on as she stares into the cup, her mind growing fuzzy with the questions she doesn't want to confront. Her heart, which the brain long trained not to feel beating, begins to beat harder in her chest, the sensation creeping up on her like a sudden storm, feeling each pulse.

The feeling grows heavier, tightening around her chest like a coiled rope. Unsettled, Ellen feels her grip on her emotions start to slip. Has she really become so used to everything being just fine that the thought of change feels like an avalanche about to fall?

Her head feels light, unstable, as though even the smallest push could send her spiraling. Wise, always observant, watches her carefully, noticing the subtle sheen of tears beginning to well up in the lower layer of her eyes. She blinks quickly, trying to blink them away before they spill over, but he’s already seen the cracks.

She doesn’t love school, not by a long shot, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been important. She’s made memories there… ones she treasures more than she cares to admit.

Times spent laughing with friends, moments of shared frustration over exams, and quiet afternoons when the world felt distant but their connection was close and now…

she doesn’t even know what they’re planning to do after high school. The future looms ahead, a shadowy unknown, and the thought of losing those friendships, those routines, sits like a stone in her chest.

"Ellen...?" Wise’s voice is soft, as though he’s not sure if he should pull her further out of her thoughts. Without a word, Ellen suddenly tilts her head back and gulps down the rest of her latte in one swift motion.

The lukewarm liquid slides down her throat, the taste comforting in a way that reminds her of summer afternoons and fading warmth. She holds onto that sensation, letting it dull the edges of her spiraling thoughts, even if just for a moment.

Wise, sensing the shift in her energy, quickly finishes his own drink, as if bracing for her to leave. But instead, Ellen lets out a long sigh, her shoulders finally relaxing.

"Can we... talk about something else?" she asks, her usual lazy tone slowly creeping back, though it’s softer now, as if the weight of the moment hasn’t completely lifted but is starting to.

“Maybe... you should get some rest,” Wise suggests gently, his eyes flickering with concern as he watches Ellen struggle to keep her heavy eyelids from closing. Even though she’s just finished a cup of strog latte, the familiar warmth of caffeine hasn’t done much to chase away her exhaustion.

Ellen blinks slowly, stifling a yawn. "...Perhaps," she mumbles, her voice trailing off as she pushes herself up from her seat. Seeing this, Wise stands up too, matching her movements with quiet readiness.

They step outside into the cool afternoon air, the sky a soft shade of gray, as if the world itself is getting ready for a nap. The café door swings shut behind them with a soft thud. 

"I’m just going to catch the metro," she begins, but before she can finish, Wise steps in. "You know... if you don’t have anything else planned, you could come rest at the video store." His tone is casual, but there’s a hopeful undertone to the offer, as if he doesn’t want her to go off alone just yet.

Ellen pauses, her gaze drifting down the street before she shrugs slightly. "Well... I don’t have anything else to do, so why not," she says, her voice as lazy as ever, but there’s a hint of relief in her eyes.

The two begin their walk toward the video store, their footsteps echoing softly on the sidewalk. When they step inside, the familiar jingle of the store’s doorbell greets them, along with the soft hum of advertisement playing on low volume.

From behind the counter, a bangboo with a bright orange bandana around its head pops up, its bunny-like ears twitching as it jumps with excitement.

"Hey there, 18," Wise greets the little robot with a smile. "Been taking good care of the store while I was gone?" The bangboo nods eagerly, its visor flashing bright green as its floppy ears wiggle in excitement.

"Good job," Wise says, giving it a thumbs-up. The bangboo’s response is almost childlike, its movements exaggerated and playful. Wise turns to her, his expression softening. "So... where do you feel like napping? Bed or sofa?"

"Sofa..." Ellen mumbles, already picturing herself sinking into the cushions. They make their way to the staff room door, which slides open smoothly before they even reach it.

"Thanks, 6," Wise says with a nod, as another bangboo, this one with the same signature bandana, salutes them from its post. Its visor displays a pair of pleased eyes, the digital animation flickering briefly as it acknowledges them.

“Here, you can sleep on that sofa,” Wise says, leading Ellen over to the single orange couch in the middle of the staff room. It’s a little old and a little worn, but it has a certain charm, like the kind of sofa that’s absorbed countless naps over the years.

“Thanks,” Ellen mutters, her voice heavy with exhaustion as she sinks into the cushions, feeling their soft give beneath her weight. She adjusts herself, tucking her legs to the side as the comfort starts to envelop her. Wise turns to leave the room, ready to give her space.

“Where are you going?” Ellen’s voice calls out just before Wise can slip through the door. He turns back, meeting her sleepy gaze. “I’m going to help 18 run the store,” he replies, his voice light but steady.

Ellen nods, letting out a soft sigh, the sound almost lost in the quiet of the room. “Oh, okay...” she says, her words trailing off. There’s a pause before Wise adds, “If you need anything, I’ll just be a door away, alright?” He gives her one last reassuring glance before closing the staff door gently behind him.

“Yeah... one door too many,” Ellen whispers to herself, her voice barely audible as she stares at the now-closed door. She hadn't realized how much she'd been hoping for his company until he left.

The relief she felt when he’d invited her over wasn’t about avoiding the metro ride, but being alone right now felt too heavy, like something she didn’t quite want to face. Her thoughts swirl for a moment before she leans deeper into the sofa, trying to push them away.

She shifts her body to get more comfortable, leaning her head against the armrest and letting her legs stretch out. The soft cushions cradle her as she closes her eyes, trying to clear her mind.

“...This is oddly more comforting than my own bedroom,” she murmurs, almost surprised by how at ease she feels. She turns to face the backrest, letting her large shark tail drape lazily over the edge of the sofa. The warmth of the room, combined with the gentle stillness around her, begins to lull her into a deeper state of relaxation.

It doesn’t take long for her to drift off. Her breathing becomes slower, more rhythmic, as the weight of her exhaustion finally wins. The room feels far away now, like a soft blur of warmth in the background.

The next time she opens her eyes, everything is still, the gentle glow of the room unchanged. For a moment, she can’t remember where she is, and the passage of time seems vague, like a dream she’s only half-awake from.

As Ellen slowly pushes herself up from the sofa, something light slips off her shoulders, tumbling down onto the cushion beside her. “Huh?” she mumbles, blinking in confusion

 Her hand instinctively reaches for the item, and to her surprise, she finds herself holding a jacket… his jacket. The familiar blue-gray fabric feels soft between her fingers, and she immediately recognizes it.

It’s Wise’s. She holds it up, inspecting the worn but well-kept material. A small, thoughtful silence follows as she realizes he must’ve draped it over her while she slept.

For a moment, Ellen debates getting up to return the jacket. It’s only polite, after all. But as she starts to move, something holds her back, curiosity. She pauses, holding the jacket out in front of her.

"I’ve always wondered how this would look on me..." she murmurs to herself, the thought slipping out before she can second-guess it. She glances around the room, her eyes scanning for a mirror, but the small staff room is bare of anything reflective.

Shrugging to herself, she pulls out her phone instead, deciding to record a quick video to check later, or maybe just for fun.

With a small, almost shy smile, Ellen slips into the jacket, her fingers smoothing down the soft fabric as it settles comfortably over her shoulders. It’s a short-sleeved jacket, a little loose on her but not in an unflattering way.

She props up her phone on a nearby table, angling it just right to capture herself. Then, with a slight tilt of her head, she starts filming, turning slowly from side to side, inspecting the jacket from different angles. The camera captures her fidgeting with the sleeves, adjusting the collar, as she lets herself enjoy the moment.

Satisfied with the footage, she retrieves her phone and plops back down onto the sofa, tapping the screen to watch the video she just filmed. As she watches herself in Wise’s jacket, a soft sigh escapes her lips.

"Hm... doesn’t suit me all that well," she says quietly, her voice tinged with a hint of disappointment. She shrugs, though, as if it doesn’t really matter. Even if it doesn’t look quite right, she can’t deny how comfortable it feels.

The fabric is soft, warm... and familiar in a way she hadn’t expected. ‘ Is this why it was so easy to fall asleep? ’ she thinks, her brows furrowing slightly at the thought.

Just as she’s about to settle back into the sofa, the door swings open, causing her heart to leap in surprise. "Oh, you’re awake," Wise says with a calm smile, completely unaware of the mini-heart attack he just gave her.

"Rina called," he continues, stepping into the room, "I told her you were here, so everything should be fine." Ellen quickly tugs off the jacket, her face warming just a little as she folds it over her lap.

“Right… thanks,” she mumbles, trying to sound casual despite her racing heart. She keeps her eyes on the jacket, still thinking about how it had felt around her.

A mischievous grin slowly spreads across Wise’s face as he leans against the doorframe. “... Did you put on my jacket?” he teases, his tone light but unmistakably amused.

Ellen’s face immediately warms up, a flush creeping across her cheeks. “N-no… I mean… u-uhm, I did,” she stammers, trying to maintain some semblance of composure but clearly flustered.

Wise lets out a soft chuckle, waving a hand dismissively. “Ah, relax, it’s not that serious,” he says, still grinning. “Oh, by the way, it’s already past six, if you haven’t checked.” Ellen’s eyes widen in surprise. She had slept for over an hour, and a guilty realization hits her… she’s definitely late for dinner.

“Oh... I should probably get going,” Ellen mumbles, already feeling a bit guilty. She runs a hand through her hair as if that will somehow help her think faster. “Otherwise, I’ll miss dinner completely…” Even as she says it, though, she knows she’s already too late.

There’s a slight tension in her voice, but Wise only chuckles again, brushing off her worry with an easy smile. “Don’t sweat it,” he says, “I told Rina I’d take you out for some noodles instead, unless you’ve got a craving for something else?” His suggestion is casual, but the way he says it makes it feel like he’s thought it through.

Ellen blinks, processing the sudden change in plans. “Oh… noodles would be just fine,” she says, the idea of a hot meal already making her stomach rumble. She hadn’t realized how hungry she was until now, the emptiness in her belly reminding her how long it’s been since she last ate.

Wise gives a quick nod, his smile never fading. “Great, then. You hungry now, or want to wait a bit?” he asks, his tone still light but considerate. Ellen places a hand on her stomach, feeling the undeniable pang of hunger. She answers without hesitation. “...I’d like to go now, if that’s okay,” she says, her voice a bit softer, almost shy.

“Very well,” Wise says with a nod, but then his lips curl into a teasing smile again. “But, uh... can I have my jacket back? My wallet’s in there,” he adds with a chuckle. Ellen’s face flushes slightly again as she quickly hands the jacket over.

“Right… sorry,” she says, feeling a bit sheepish. Wise takes the jacket from her, slipping it on effortlessly. “Thanks,” he says with an easy smile, patting the pocket where his wallet is tucked away. He gives her a playful nudge before heading for the door. “Come on, lessgo for noodles”

Ellen chuckles lightly at Wise’s last comment it was quite funny since it was exactly what she had texted him the last time they went for noodles at Waterfall Soup.

"Sure," she says, rising from her spot on the sofa and stretching her arms above her head, feeling her muscles relax as the drowsiness begins to fade. The soft light from the store casts a cozy glow, making her feel at ease.

“18, the store’s in your hands, alright?” Wise calls over to the bangboo, who responds with an enthusiastic salute, its ears wiggling as it proudly takes on the task.

Wise flashes a grin before he and Ellen step outside, the cool evening air brushing against their faces. They don’t have far to go, Waterfall Soup is just next door, the familiar scent of broth already wafting in the air as they approach. Their footsteps fall in sync, a comfortable silence between them as they walk.

As they settle into the stools next to each other, Ellen glances around the small restaurant, appreciating the coziness. “What noodles are you getting?” she asks, her tone casual but curious as she leans forward slightly, resting her arms on the counter.

“I’m getting the sweet soup,” he replies, Ellen perks up at his answer, her head tilting toward him. “...Can I have some of yours?” she asks, her voice soft but hopeful.

Wise turns his head, eyebrows raising in mild surprise. “Huh? You’re not getting anything for yourself? It’s my treat, you know.” Ellen shakes her head with a small smile.

“Oh, no, I am… I’m getting the Vegetable Noodles,” she clarifies, her gaze drifting away for a second before she adds, “Since… my tooth’s been acting up lately... I’m worried about getting cavities.” She finishes the sentence with a slight blush, as if admitting to a small embarrassment. It’s not often she talks about stuff like this.

Wise blinks, clearly surprised. “Cavities? I thought sharks couldn’t get cavities,” he says, a playful grin teasing at the edges of his lips. Ellen’s face flushes slightly deeper, her eyes widening as she sputters, “H-huh? What? Who told you that?” Her reaction is quick and flustered.

She fidgets for a second before muttering, “A-anyway, I’m a thiren , not a full shark…” She pouts, half embarrassed, half amused, as she nudges him lightly with her elbow. The air between them feels lighter, her earlier concerns about cavities melting into the warmth of their shared humor.

“I mean, even if you are a thiren , you’ve definitely inherited a lot of notable traits from sharks,” Wise says, his voice light but thoughtful. Ellen sinks her head closer to her shoulders, her body language curling inward like she’s trying to hide away.

“...I mean… yeah… but still,” she mutters, her voice barely above a whisper. Her fingers fidget with the edge of the counter, the topic clearly making her feel a bit self-conscious.

Wise tilts his head slightly, the gears in his mind turning. “Or… could it be that you’re choosing a more nutritious meal with less fat because you’ve been worrying about your weight lately?” he teases, his voice holding a playful lilt, but his eyes flicker with a hint of mischief.

The effect is immediate. Ellen freezes, her fingers tightening around the edge of her stool as if it’s the only thing grounding her. “D-don’t say that so loud!” she hisses, her voice dropping, eyes darting nervously to the other patrons as she stares down at the counter. Her face warms, a rosy blush creeping up her neck.

Wise chuckles, raising his hands in mock surrender. “Sorry, my bad, my bad,” he says with a grin, though the amusement is still clear in his voice. He can’t help it, teasing Ellen, especially when she gets flustered, has its charms.

Before she can respond, the booming voice of General Chop interrupts, his presence as loud and welcoming as always. “Ah! Wise, what can I do for you today? Oh? And your friend, of course!” the chef greets them with his usual wide grin.

Wise turns his attention back to the menu. “One Sweet Soup and one Vegetable Noodles, please,” he says, and General Chop nods, his hands already moving swiftly to prepare their order. “Coming right up!”

As the smell of broth and noodles begins to fill the air, Wise suddenly snaps his fingers, as if remembering something important. “Oh, that reminds me,” he says, turning toward Ellen with a thoughtful look.

Ellen, who has mostly recovered from her earlier fluster, lifts her head and looks at him with mild curiosity. “What is it?” she asks, tilting her head slightly, her eyes narrowing just a bit. Wise leans back on his stool, giving her a playful grin.

“Do you want anything specific for your eighteenth birthday?” he asks, his voice casual but curious. Ellen blinks, caught off-guard by the question. Her expression softens, and she pauses, clearly not expecting him to bring up her birthday so casually.

“...You know my birthday isn’t until next year, right?” Ellen says, her eyebrows raising slightly as she glances over at Wise. He just shrugs casually, unfazed. “Yeah, I know. It’s the 4th of January, though, which is less than 70 days away,” Wise replies, his tone nonchalant but with a hint of teasing in his voice.

It’s almost the end of October, and while to Ellen that still feels like ages, Wise clearly thinks it’s right around the corner. “Here you go, you two!” General Chop’s booming voice cuts through the conversation as he sets down two steaming bowls of noodles, one Sweet Soup for Wise and one Vegetable Noodles for Ellen.

The scent of fresh broth and herbs immediately fills the air. Both of them thank General Chop, reaching for their chopsticks. Ellen inhales deeply, the warmth of the meal already soothing her. She gives a small, appreciative nod before blowing on her noodles and taking a tentative slurp.

“As I said, it’s less than 70 days away,” Wise repeats with a grin, clearly amused that Ellen isn’t treating it as soon as he is. Ellen pauses, blowing gently on another mouthful of noodles before slurping them up.

“...Yeah, I guess in a sense it isn’t that far away,” she admits, though her voice lacks excitement. Her gaze drops to the bowl, staring into the swirling noodles as if they hold the answer to something she can’t quite put her finger on. Birthdays never seemed like a big deal to her, but she could tell Wise thought differently.

“I don’t really need anything special… just get whatever,” Ellen finally says, her tone honest but unenthusiastic. “Price doesn’t really matter.” Her words are casual, almost indifferent, as though the thought of receiving a gift feels distant or unnecessary.

Wise, however, isn’t ready to drop the subject. He turns his head slightly, his chopsticks paused over his bowl. “Are you sure there isn’t even one thing that’s caught your eye? Something you’ve been thinking about?” His voice is gentle but persistent, as if he’s searching for a way to make the day feel more meaningful.

Ellen shrugs again, her expression thoughtful. “I don’t have high expectations, so I’d be satisfied with a lot of things,” she says, her tone softening a bit as she twirls her chopsticks in the broth.

“Even a bag of candy would do the trick.” She adds this last part with a small, casual smile, as if to say she’s not hard to please. Wise watches her closely, searching for any sign that she’s just saying it to brush him off. But there’s nothing in her tone or posture to suggest she’s lying.

The two of them eat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the bustling restaurant fading into the background. Ellen is lost in her own thoughts, occasionally glancing at Wise, who seems just as focused on his meal.

After a few minutes, Wise slides his half-empty bowl of Sweet Soup Noodles toward her. “Hm…?” Ellen raises an eyebrow, turning her head to him in mild surprise. He meets her gaze with a familiar grin.

“We’ve done this exchange before, haven’t we?” he says, as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. She looks down at the inviting bowl in front of her, the Sweet Soup looking far more appetizing than her own Vegetable Noodles.

With a soft huff, Ellen obliges, exchanging the remains of their bowls without a second thought. “Thanks for putting up with my... antics,” she murmurs, her voice almost apologetic as she starts on the Sweet Soup.

Wise shrugs easily, already digging into her Vegetable Noodles without hesitation. “Ah, don’t worry about it,” he replies, his tone casual but reassuring, as if they’ve been doing this routine for years, even though it only has been a few months. The warm, sweet, and savory flavors of his soup instantly soothe Ellen.

Once they finish their meal, Wise stands and covers the bill, waving off Ellen’s half-hearted offer to split it. Ellen stretches her arms above her head, trying to shake off the drowsiness from the heavy meal.

Wise walks alongside her as they head toward the metro station, their footsteps syncing with the steady hum of the city. After a moment of quiet, Ellen glances up at him. “Oh... I forgot to ask, where’s your sister?” she asks, her curiosity finally breaking the silence.

“Oh, she’s out with some friends for the day,” Wise replies, glancing over at her. “She’ll be home later tonight.” His voice is casual, but there’s an unspoken attentiveness in his words, as though he’s always keeping an eye on things.

As they approach the entrance to the metro station, Wise slows down, his footsteps becoming more deliberate. He turns to face Ellen fully, his expression softening. “Are you going to be okay?” he asks, his voice gentler now, carrying a weight that wasn’t there before.

Ellen blinks, caught off guard by the sudden question. “Yeah, I’ll be fine,” she replies, her voice a bit too quick. “It’s not like this is the first time I’ve gone home alone.” She tries to brush it off with a shrug, but Wise shakes his head, his gaze never leaving hers.

“That’s not what I meant, Ellen,” he says softly, his eyes narrowing with quiet concern. “I saw the face you made at the café again... when you were staring at your noodles.” His words hang in the air for a moment, and Ellen flinches, her usual composure slipping as her gaze falls to the ground. 

“...Yeah,” Ellen murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper, as if the weight of the world is pressing down on her shoulders. Wise lets out a soft sigh, his breath barely audible in the stillness of the evening.

“It’s okay not to be fine, Ellen,” he says gently, his voice soft but firm, as if he’s trying to make sure the words sink in. “Changes happen all the time, even the smallest ones, like atoms shifting. It’s natural,” he adds, his tone steady, trying to remind her that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Wise steps a little closer, his voice soft but determined, as if he needs her to understand how serious he is. “Listen, whenever you need help, or just someone to talk to... if you need a shoulder or someone to rely on, don’t hesitate. Just text me, okay? I don’t care if it’s midnight or midday, no matter where or when, if my company can comfort you even a little, just reach out.” His tone is gentle, but there’s a quiet intensity behind it, as if he’s trying to embed the words in her head, make her truly believe she doesn’t have to carry everything alone.

“...M-mhh…” Ellen stares at the ground, unable to lift her gaze. Her chest tightens as emotions swirl inside her, but she can’t bring herself to say anything more. The silence between them stretches, but it isn’t empty… it's heavy, filled with the weight of unsaid words and unspoken feelings.

The street is eerily quiet, only the faint sound of distant footsteps echoing in the background. But in that moment, the silence speaks louder than anything else, wrapping around them like a protective cocoon.

Without warning, Ellen leans forward and buries her face against Wise’s torso, her small frame trembling as she hides the tears that have been welling up in her eyes. Her arms wrap tightly around his waist, clinging to him like a lifeline.

“...Y-you promise?” she whispers, her voice breaking, trembling with the vulnerability she’s been trying to hold back. Wise gently pats her back, his hand moving in slow, soothing circles. “I promise,” he says, his voice steady and calm, anchoring her in the moment.

Ellen stays there for a moment, taking in the comfort his presence offers. Slowly, she pulls back, her face flushed, eyes red and puffy from the tears she hadn’t wanted to shed.

“...I should probably get going now,” she murmurs, her voice still shaky. “Rina and the others might start worrying.” She gives him a small, grateful smile, though the weight in her chest hasn’t fully lifted. “See you next time,” she adds quietly, turning toward the entrance of the metro station.

As she reaches for her transit card, she feels something warm and soft drape over her shoulders. The familiar fabric brushes against her neck, and she pauses, glancing back to see Wise standing there, his face calm but kind. He’s placed his jacket on her, the same one he had offered earlier. “E-eh...?” Ellen stammers, confused but touched by the gesture. 

“Just something to remind you that I’ll always be someone you can rely on,” Wise says, his voice steady but kind, as the cool night air wraps around them. Ellen can feel her chest tightening again, but she forces a grin, determined not to let herself get too emotional.

“You know… this jacket doesn’t really suit me all that well,” she says with a playful tone, tugging at the sleeves. “But it does work on you,” she adds, her voice softening just a little.

“But... I’ll keep it,” Ellen adds, her smile softening as she scans her transit card and steps into the entrance of the underground metro station.

There’s something about holding onto the jacket that feels right, like a small piece of comfort she didn’t know she needed. “See you around, Wise,” she calls back, her voice quieter now, almost hesitant to fully say goodbye.

“Bye-bye,” Wise responds, giving a small wave before turning on his heel, heading back in the direction of the video store. Ellen watches him for a moment longer before descending the stairs into the station.

As the metro pulls away, Ellen sinks into one of the seats, glancing down at her outfit. Only then does it hit her, she’s still in her maid uniform. Not that it’s unusual for her; after all, she’s worn this outfit so often that it feels like a second skin.

It’s not uncommon for her to be in it long since she does work as a maid, sometimes even until she falls asleep. She barely gets the chance to wear normal clothes anymore. Even in her free time after school, she often finds herself in her school uniform.

But now, as she wraps Wise’s jacket a little tighter around her shoulders, she realizes she’s wearing something normal… no, It’s not just any piece of clothing; it’s his jacket, from a friend who has somehow managed to become one of the most dependable people in her life.

Even though they only met a few months ago at the Ballet Twins event, Wise has already proven to be as reliable as her friends and the staff at Victoria Housekeeping… maybe even more than that… She sighs softly.

The ride passes in peaceful quiet, the soft hum of the metro lulling her into a calm state. When the metro arrives at her stop, Ellen steps off and walks the familiar path toward the Victoria Housekeeping office, which doubles as her and their home.

The streets are quiet, and the gentle glow of the streetlights guides her way. She reaches the front door, her steps slowing as she rings the bell. As she waits for someone to answer.

Rina is the one to open the door, her face lighting up with a warm smile as soon as she sees Ellen. “Ellen! Thank goodness, you’re back safe,” she says, her voice full of playful relief.

“I was almost worried the Proxies had stolen you away from us,” she adds with a wink, her teasing tone as familiar as the cozy warmth of the house behind her.

Ellen steps inside, shrugging off her shoes as she gives Rina a lazy smile. “Don’t worry, even if it doesn’t look like it... I do like my job here. And I like you guys too,” she says, her voice slipping back into its usual slow, tired drawl.

There’s no excitement in her tone, but the affection is there, hidden beneath the layers of her constant nonchalance. Rina, ever the optimist, clasps her hands together with a smile. “That’s all I needed to hear! Have you eaten yet? I’ve got some leftovers if you’re hungry.”

Ellen freezes for a split second, remembering Rina’s... questionable cooking skills. “Oh, uh, n-no thanks,” she stammers, trying to sound polite but failing to hide the slight tremor in her voice. “The Proxy treated me to noodles.”

Rina’s smile never falters, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “Ah, I see. So, you had a good meal then?” she asks, holds her hands together, looking at Ellen with her usual carefree smile.

“Yeah...” Ellen nods, a yawn escaping her lips as the weight of the day finally starts to catch up with her. “...Tired,” she mumbles, her eyelids drooping slightly. Rina giggles softly, watching Ellen’s usual sleepy behavior with fondness.

“Alright then, go wash up before bed, okay?” she says, giving Ellen a gentle nudge toward the stairs. Ellen mutters something under her breath as she starts to head up, too exhausted to argue.

A little while later, Ellen plops down on her bed, now dressed in her soft shark onesie. The fabric hugs her tired frame as she sprawls out on her stomach, her long tail comfortably draped over the edge of the bed.

She glances over at her desk, where Wise’s jacket sits folded neatly. Thank god Rina didn’t comment on it, she muses, letting out a quiet sigh. The jacket seems to carry a comforting weight, almost like a reminder of the unexpected warmth.

“... Goodnight…”

Chapter Text

There’s something in the quiet confidence of knowing that, despite the chaos, everything will be alright. It’s not a shallow hope or an empty assurance but a deep-seated truth that we carry within us, something we feel in our bones even when the world seems uncertain. We’ve lived through our own storms, weathered winds that tried to pull us off course, but here we are... And that’s all the proof we need. We can trust in our rhythm, trust in the steps we take, even when the path ahead seems dimly lit. Because somehow… we always find our way.

Nights where life seems to crackle with energy, where we come alive under the stars with people we’ve never met before. Strangers in name only, because when the night stretches long and laughter fills the spaces between us, there’s this strange familiarity. It’s as if we’ve all shared a lifetime, even if our stories have only just begun to intertwine. We move in sync, no longer separate, but part of something larger… a current, a pulse that carries us forward together.

It’s a peculiar kind of comfort, isn’t it? Realizing that in the end, no matter how many roads we’ve traveled or how far we think we’ve gone, the faces we encounter aren’t so different from our own. We find pieces of ourselves in the people around us. Echoes of shared dreams, whispered fears, and that persistent ache for something more. Knowing we’re not alone in our wildness, our restlessness. We’re young, maybe reckless, but isn’t that part of the ride? The missteps, the risks, the leaps we take because something within us refuses to stay still?

We keep going. Because we’ve made it this far. We carry the memories of every night we’ve run wild, every stranger who became a friend, every moment that reminded us we are alive. The future is uncertain, sure, but that only means there’s more to discover, more to create. We’ve already proven we can survive the unknown, and now it’s time to thrive in it. And somehow, that makes the road ahead seem a little less daunting, a little more full of light.

“ EHHH-len! ” A bright, energetic voice cuts through the air as a blonde girl with a pink headband pops into Ellen’s line of sight, her face full of excitement. Ellen, the ever-exhausted shark thiren, barely lifts her head in response.

She lets out a long, weary sigh, her eyes half-closed. “Hmmm… huh…?” she mutters, her voice heavy with the kind of fatigue that feels like it’s seeped into her bones. Slowly, she turns her head just enough to glance at her overly enthusiastic friend.

“What is it, Ruby…?” Ellen asks in her usual drawling tone, clearly uninterested but still willing to humor her friend. Ruby, however, is practically bouncing on the balls of her feet, her excitement infectious as she thrusts her phone toward Ellen’s face.

“ Look! ” she exclaims, her eyes wide with anticipation. Ellen, always sluggish but mildly intrigued, raises an eyebrow as she glances at the screen. “Hmmm…?” She peers at the phone, her voice trailing off with a mix of curiosity and disinterest.

“... A movie about… a mutated human-worm?” Ellen tilts her head, her expression one of pure disbelief as she tries to wrap her tired mind around the bizarre concept. She turns to Ruby, her gaze almost asking if this is some sort of joke.

“No, no, no! It’s Human Rainworm Four !” Ruby corrects her, absolutely glowing with excitement, like she’s just revealed the biggest cinematic masterpiece of the decade. Ellen blinks, her face still frozen in mild confusion, clearly not sharing Ruby’s enthusiasm for whatever this is.

“Uh-huh… but I haven’t even watched one, two, or three…” Ellen replies, her voice a soft grumble as she gives Ruby a deadpan look. She’s already trying to figure out how to politely decline, but Ruby is having none of it.

“Doesn’t matter!” Ruby insists, shaking her head furiously. “The first three are totally their own thing, a trilogy! But this one? It’s a fresh start! You’re fine jumping right in with number four!” Her voice is bubbling over with excitement.

Ellen stares at her, bewildered. “Huuuh… Do I have to?” she mumbles, offering Ruby a sheepish smile that’s almost pleading for an escape route. Ruby isn’t backing down though. She nods vigorously, her enthusiasm unwavering.

“Come on ! It’s going to be so much fun!” she says, grabbing Ellen’s shoulders and giving her a light but persistent shake, trying to transfer some of her uncontainable energy into her reluctant friend.

“… I don’t know…” Ellen mumbles, her voice laced with hesitation as Ruby continues to lightly shake her by the shoulders. “Isn’t there any other movie you’d want to watch instead…?”

Ruby, however, is relentless, practically bouncing on her heels at this point. “No way! Come on, EHH-len !” Ruby’s voice is a mix of pleading and excitement, her eyes wide as she begs. At this point, she’s not just asking; she’s desperately trying to drag Ellen into her orbit of enthusiasm.

Ellen exhales a long, exaggerated sigh, her shoulders slumping in defeat. “Alright, alright…” she mutters, raising her hands slightly in surrender. Ruby’s face lights up instantly, her mouth already opening to cheer, but before she can fully celebrate, Ellen cuts her off.

“ If ,” Ellen adds, a sly smile creeping onto her lips, “you manage to convince Monna and Lynn to go, too.” Ruby freezes mid-celebration, her mouth hanging open in an exaggerated “gah-!” of surprise, her excitement deflating like a popped balloon.

Ruby’s initial shock quickly morphs into a look of fierce determination. “Fine! Deal!” she declares, her eyes narrowing with resolve, as if Ellen’s condition was merely a minor obstacle on her path to victory.

Ellen, seeing her friend's enthusiasm undeterred, just shrugs and lazily pops a lollipop into her mouth, clearly content to let Ruby take the reins. Just as she leans back into her usual laid-back demeanor, a familiar voice calls out from behind them.

“Ah, there you two are,” says Monna, the brown-haired, Bizon thiren girl. Walking alongside her is Lynn, the long-haired girl with glasses.

“Monna! Lynn! Perfect timing!” Ruby beams as she bounds over to them, waving her phone like it’s some kind of prize. “You guys wanna watch a movie?” she asks, her voice practically dripping with excitement.

Monna raises an eyebrow, her head tilting ever so slightly. “Depends… what kind of movie?” she replies, her tone skeptical but not dismissive. Lynn echoes Monna’s sentiment with a soft, “Yeah, what she said.”

Ruby eagerly flips her phone around, displaying the movie description with pride. Monna and Lynn glance at the screen, their expressions slowly morphing from curiosity to bafflement.

“You’re not seriously suggesting we watch a movie about… a human-worm thing, are you?” Monna asks, a little unimpressed. Lynn just narrows her eyes behind her glasses, quietly absorbing the ridiculousness of the title.

“Aaahhh… come on, you guys,” Ruby whines, her usual excitement wavering as she lets out a small, disappointed sigh. “I’ve never been able to watch this movie with anyone before... and I really wanted to share it with you.” Her voice softens, and for a moment, her usual boundless energy is replaced with a hint of vulnerability.

Monna and Lynn exchange a glance, clearly torn between their skepticism about the movie and their affection for Ruby. After a long pause, they both sigh in unison. “...Alright, fine,” Monna says at last, crossing her arms with a reluctant smirk. “We’ll watch the movie.”

“...For real?” Ruby asks, her voice shooting up in a high-pitched squeak of pure, hopeful disbelief. Her eyes widen, almost sparkling with excitement, as if she can’t quite believe they’re agreeing.

Monna and Lynn both nod, though their expressions remain a mix of mild disapproval and resignation. “Yeah…,” Monna mutters with a slight eye roll, while Lynn shrugs, clearly still not convinced.

Despite their reluctance, it’s obvious they’re doing this for Ruby’s sake. Ruby’s entire face lights up as she claps her hands together, practically bouncing on her toes. “Yaaay! You guys are the best !”

“Come on! Let’s go to the cinema!” Ruby says, practically skipping with excitement as she heads toward the exit. Ellen, meanwhile, lazily pushes herself up from her seat, letting out a groan that’s half fatigue, half reluctance.

She stretches her arms above her head, dragging her feet as she starts to follow. Monna and Lynn exchange amused glances, clearly still skeptical but willing to humor their bubbly friend.

They all trail behind Ruby, each girl wrapped in her own private thoughts and doubts about the movie. Ellen stuffs her hands into her pockets, her steps slow and heavy as she grumbles under her breath, “I can’t believe we’re actually doing this…”

After a quick metro ride, the four girls step out into the bustling heart of Lumina Square. The sun is setting, casting long shadows across the square as they emerge from the station and cross the busy streets.

Ruby is still chattering away, bubbling with anticipation about the movie, her voice bright as she skips ahead of the group. “I can’t wait to see what happens in this one!” she gushes, oblivious to the side glances exchanged between Monna, Lynn, and Ellen.

Ellen, lagging behind slightly, glances to the side and catches a glimpse of something, or rather, someone familiar. Out of the corner of her eye, she spots a figure with silver hair standing near the corner, deep in conversation with a couple of officers.

She squints, turning her head to get a better look. Wait… is that proxy? she wonders. Next to him, a Bangboo officer and another officer in pubsec gear seem to be talking in low voices. A faint frown forms on Ellen’s face. Is he… in trouble? she muses, her steps slowing as she tries to make sense of the scene.

“Manager… if you really want to pet me, just go ahead and do it,” the Bangboo states flatly, its digital visor displaying a pair of unamused eyes. Wise chuckles under his breath, kneeling down without hesitation. His hand moves gently, as he gives the Bangboo a light pat on the head. 

Out of the corner of his eye, Wise catches the unmistakable flicker of a shark tail. He glances over, and sure enough, there she is, the familiar shark thiren, Ellen, trailing nearby. A small, calm smile forms on his lips as he raises a hand in greeting. His demeanor shifts easily from casual to welcoming.

Ellen, mid-step, freezes for a second, surprised by the sudden attention. Her body reacts instinctively, her hand lifting in an awkward, reflexive wave. She offers him a sheepish smile, almost as if she’s been caught off-guard.

At that moment, Ruby, walking ahead, notices that Ellen is lagging behind. She pauses, turning back to see her friend waving to someone across the square. Curiosity sparks in her eyes as she follows Ellen’s gaze, craning her neck to see who had caught her attention.

Monna and Lynn slow their steps as well, quietly observing the interaction. They exchange knowing glances but decide to keep their thoughts to themselves. “Ellen, hurry up!” she calls, her voice playful but carrying just a hint of impatience.

Ellen blinks, snapping out of her thoughts, her head turning back to her friends. “Sorry about that,” she mutters, quickening her pace to catch up. There’s a brief, almost imperceptible shift in her mood, a lightness that wasn’t there just a moment ago.

The group resumes walking, their footsteps falling back in sync as they make their way toward the cinema. Her friends notice the subtle change in Ellen’s energy, small, but unmistakably brighter than before.

The group soon finds their seats in the dimly lit movie theater, settling into the plush chairs as the quiet hum of anticipation fills the air. Ellen, predictably, is the only one with a bucket of sweet popcorn perched on her lap. The sugary aroma wafts up, a sharp contrast to the more savory snacks the others have chosen.

“So, Ellen, who was that guy who seemed to catch your eye earlier?” Ruby asks, leaning in toward Ellen with a sly grin, her voice light but laced with curiosity. The question makes Ellen stiffen ever so slightly.

“He’s just a friend…” she responds, her voice casual but tinged with a hint of defensiveness. The way she glances away for a brief moment doesn’t escape Ruby’s notice. She tilts her head, her curiosity only growing.

“ Just a friend?” Monna interjects, her eyebrow raising in mock skepticism. Without warning, she reaches over and pokes Ellen’s cheek, her finger pressing against the soft skin.

“Come on, your whole mood totally brightened when you saw him,” she teases, a knowing grin spreading across her face. Ellen, startled by the poke, shrinks back into her seat, her cheeks flushing a faint pink.

“W-well… he’s just a really good friend of mine… okay?” she stammers, her voice growing smaller as she hunches her shoulders, trying to downplay the situation.

Lynn, ever the quiet observer, chimes in thoughtfully. “He looks like he’s in his twenties,” she remarks, her tone more matter-of-fact, her analytical mind clearly turning over the details.

“Do you like more mature guys, Ellen?” She turns her head slightly to the side, her gaze now fully on Ellen, genuine curiosity flickering in her eyes. Ellen’s response is immediate, she pulls up the collar of her blouse, hiding half her face behind the fabric, her voice muffled as she mumbles, “Can you guys stop with all the questions…”

Just as Ellen feels the heat from all the attention, the lights in the theater suddenly dim, casting shadows over the rows of seats. The projector hums to life, and the screen flickers as the opening scene of the movie starts to play.

Instantly, all attention shifts. “Oh, it’s starting!” Ruby exclaims, her voice a little too loud in the hushed atmosphere, excitement bubbling up in her tone. Ellen lets out a quiet sigh of relief, sitting up straighter in her seat. She pops a few kernels of popcorn into her mouth, grateful for the distraction.

As the movie unfolds, the entire group settles into a comfortable silence, their eyes glued to the screen. At first, their expressions are blank, maybe even a little skeptical, especially Monna, who had been rolling her eyes at the concept earlier.

But as the scenes progress, a collective shift happens. Despite themselves, they’re drawn in. Ellen crunches on her sweet popcorn, her tail flicking lightly behind her, fully absorbed. And as much as the others hate to admit it, the movie is actually… pretty good.

The group emerges from the dim lighting of the cinema into the bright afternoon sunlight, blinking as their eyes adjust. Ellen, Monna, and Lynn all wear expressions of odd satisfaction… despite their initial doubts, they seem oddly content with the film they just saw.

“Sooo?” Ruby pipes up, turning toward them with an eager grin, practically bouncing on her toes. “Weeeell? What did you guys think?” Her voice drips with anticipation.

Ellen gives a lazy shrug, her hands stuffed into her jacket pockets. “...It was pretty good… I guess,” she mutters, her tone as nonchalant as ever, but there’s a slight smile tugging at her lips.

“I knew it!” Ruby exclaims, thrusting her fist triumphantly into the air, a wide grin plastered across her face. The others let out a collective, soft sigh, exchanging amused glances.

“Alright, alright, you win,” Monna says with a chuckle, shaking her head. “So… what now? It’s still early, and we’ve got the whole Friday afternoon,” Lynn chimes in, her voice thoughtful as she glances around, suggesting they should make the most of their time.

They all fall into a comfortable silence for a moment, each thinking about what to do next, until Ruby’s eyes light up with sudden inspiration. “Oh! I know! How about we grab dinner at Simmer Hotpot?” she suggests, her voice bubbling with excitement.

“They’re doing this promotion right now where you get the new broth for free, all we have to do is pay for the stuff you want to boil!” She raises her eyebrows, hoping to entice them with the offer.

Monna, Lynn, and Ellen exchange glances, silently weighing the idea. After a beat, Monna nods. “Hotpot does sound good,” she admits with a small smile. “sure,” Ellen adds lazily. Lynn shrugs “Sounds good to me.”

Not long after, the four friends find themselves seated around a cozy table at Simmer Hotpot, the soft hum of the restaurant creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. They scan the QR code to order the items they want to boil, their phones lighting up with endless options of vegetables, meats, and noodles.

The bubbling of the broth adds a comforting background sound as they wait for their food. Monna leans back in her chair with a sigh, stretching her arms. “Only a few more weeks until winter break…” she says, her voice carrying a note of longing.

Her words catch the others’ attention, and they all turn to look at her. “Huh? Why bring up winter break?” Lynn asks, raising an eyebrow. “It’s still two weeks away,” she adds, though a small smile plays on her lips.

“Because I’m going on vacation to the mountains!” Monna announces, leaning back in her chair, her arms stretched behind her head in a relaxed, triumphant pose. Her eyes gleam with excitement as she pictures her upcoming adventure.

She glances around the table, leaning forward a little, her curiosity piqued. “What about the rest of you? Got any fun plans for winter break?” she asks, scanning her friends' faces expectantly.

Lynn shifts awkwardly in her seat, her eyes darting around as a nervous energy settles over her. Ellen, however, just shrugs, her voice casual. “I don’t have anything planned for winter,” she says, her tone as laid-back as always, like she couldn’t care less about the upcoming break.

Ruby nods in agreement, twirling a strand of her hair absentmindedly. “Yeah, nothing planned either… unless my parents surprise me with a trip somewhere last minute,” she adds with a small, hopeful smile.

A brief silence falls over the group, and soon all eyes turn toward Lynn. Feeling the weight of their attention, she exhales a long, quiet sigh. “...I’m going to visit the university I want to attend,” she admits, her voice soft, but steady.

Her words catch the other three completely off guard, their eyebrows raising in unison. “Wait, really?” Ruby blurts out, her eyes wide with surprise. “That’s so cool!”

Lynn nods slowly, still fiddling with her fingers under the table. “Yeah… though it’s out of the country,” she admits, her voice dropping to a near whisper, as if the weight of those words makes the reality even more daunting.

The other three exchange surprised glances before looking back at her. “Wait… you’re planning to study abroad?” Monna asks, her voice tinged with both curiosity and admiration.

Lynn nods again, more confidently this time. “Yeah, I’ve already sent in my application. I’m still waiting to hear if I get accepted or not,” she explains, her fingers still nervously twisting together.

The others pause for a moment, taking in the weight of her words before exchanging glances again. Ruby is the first to speak, her voice brimming with enthusiasm.

“That’s awesome! Honestly, if they don’t accept you, it’s their loss. They’d be total idiots not to want you at their school!” she declares, her fists clenched in a show of support.

“Still, I’m curious,” Monna says, her head tilting slightly as she leans forward. “Why did you decide to study abroad?” Her tone is casual, but there’s genuine interest in her eyes.

Lynn shrugs, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her sleeve. “I just want to see more of the world, you know? Don’t get me wrong, I love New Eridu, and it will always be my home,” she says, her voice softening with a hint of affection.

“But I don’t want to feel like I’m stuck here forever. I want to experience something new , something different.” She stumbles slightly over her words, her nervousness showing. “I-it’s hard to explain, but… you get what I mean, right?”

“Totally get you,” Ruby chimes in, her voice full of enthusiasm as she throws up a thumbs-up. “You should definitely do what you wanna do! You’ve got one life, make the most of it!” Her encouragement makes Lynn shuffle in her seat, a small but grateful smile forming on her lips.

“Thanks…” she says quietly. Then, after a brief pause, her expression becomes a little more somber. “I just feel bad that I won’t be here for Christmas or New Year’s. But I’ll probably be back just before your birthday, Ellen,” she adds, glancing over at her friend with a soft smile.

“Eh, I’m not too worried about my birthday,” Ellen says, her voice carrying its usual lazy tone. “But it’s nice of you to think of it.” A faint smile creeps onto her face, betraying her relaxed exterior.

Ruby, of course, is having none of it. “Don’t be like that, Ellen!” she exclaims, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “It’s your glorious eighteenth! You’ll basically be an adult, with almost unlimited freedom!” Ruby’s hands fly into the air, as if emphasizing the grandeur of turning eighteen. “Think of all the things you can do- well, almost all the things,” she adds with a playful grin, leaning in dramatically.

Ellen shrugs, leaning back in her seat. “I guess so…” she says, her tone still far from enthusiastic. The idea of turning eighteen doesn’t seem to stir any excitement in her, at least not on the surface.

Before the conversation can continue, the waiter arrives, placing a tray of cold vegetables and thin slices of raw meat on the table. “Enjoy,” he says with a polite nod, quickly moving on to serve other customers.

The girls settle into a comfortable rhythm as they focus on the steaming pots of broth in front of them. Each of them carefully dips slices of meat, vegetables, and noodles into the bubbling broth, watching as their food simmers to perfection.

Between bites, they exchange small talk, sharing snippets of their lives and laughing at inside jokes. Steam rises from the hotpot, adding a cozy warmth to the atmosphere, while their laughter occasionally breaks through the gentle background hum of the restaurant.

As the plates gradually empty and the broth in their pots simmers down to nothing, the girls lean back in their chairs, satisfied. With the last few bites eaten, they call for the check, each pulling out their wallets to split the bill evenly.

“Fair is fair,” Monna says with a grin as they exchange amused glances. Once everything is settled, they stand and head toward the exit, the crisp evening air greeting them as they step outside.

“Well, I guess this is it for today,” Lynn says with a soft smile. They gather in a small circle, bidding each other farewell, Lynn heading off to catch the bus, while Monna and Ruby walk in the direction of the metro, laughing and chatting as they go.

Ellen watches her friends disappear into the evening, feeling a slight shift in the air. The lively buzz of the restaurant fades behind her as she walks, her pace slowing just a little as she nears Coff’s Coffee.

As she climbs the stairs to the second floor of the café, she spots a familiar figure sitting, the silver hair catching the dim light. It’s Wise, head down, his fingers scrolling absently through his phone.

Ellen pulls a chair back with a slight scrape, the sound catching Wise’s attention. He glances up from his phone, a soft smile spreading across his face as he sees her. “Oh, hey, you’re here,” he says, setting his phone down on the table.

“I got your text just as I was about to head back to the store.” His voice is calm, and casual, although he knows something's on her mind. Ellen nods, her hands instinctively rubbing her arm as she sits down, her gaze flicking to the window for a moment.

“Mhm… thanks for waiting, I guess,” she replies, her voice a little softer than usual. There’s a brief silence, and Wise tilts his head slightly, watching her closely. “So, is something bothering you?” he asks, his tone gentle but direct. Ellen glances sideways, avoiding his gaze for a moment, before finally looking back at him.

“… I don’t really feel comfortable talking about it out here. Can we head to your place so I can vent?” Ellen asks, her voice quieter than usual, her discomfort palpable.

Wise gives her a gentle, understanding nod. “Of course,” he replies, his voice calm and reassuring. “But before we go, do you want to grab something from Coff’s? A drink or a snack?” he offers, gesturing to the café behind them.

Ellen shakes her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. “No thanks… I don’t want to risk staying up all night.” There’s a hint of exhaustion in her voice, though the smile lingers.

Wise nods back, respecting her choice. “Alright, come on. I parked my car not too far from here,” he says, standing up and motioning for her to follow.

They walk together through the soft orange glow of sun streaks until they reach the car. Wise unlocks the door and slides into the driver’s seat, while Ellen opens the back door and slips in, stretching out to make room for her shark tail.

She leans back, letting the cool leather seats soothe her as she adjusts her position. Wise glances at her through the rearview mirror, giving her a small, reassuring smile before starting the engine. “You good back there?” he asks over his shoulder.

Ellen nods, sinking deeper into the seat. “Yeah, I’m fine. Thanks for this.” As the car pulls away from Lumina Square, the city lights blur past the windows, and the soft hum of the engine fills the air.

As the car moves through the city streets, Ellen stares out the window, watching the sunset as it almost disappears from the horizon. After a moment of quiet, she finally speaks. “I’ve been thinking… about what I’m going to do after high school,” she begins, her words hanging in the air like an unfinished thought.

Wise’s eyes flicker toward the rearview mirror again, his focus still on her. “Yeah? That’s a big thing to think about,” he says, his tone encouraging but not pushy. “Did you talk about it with your friends today?”

Ellen nods slightly, her hand reaching up to rub her temple. “Yeah, we did,” she admits, letting out a long sigh. “ He’s always so quick to pick up on things,” she muses to herself.

There’s a brief silence, only the sound of the car engine humming as they drive through the quiet streets. Then Wise speaks, his voice calm but knowing. “I’m guessing at least one of your friends is thinking about studying abroad?” he says, not looking back but keeping his tone gentle.

Ellen flinches, caught off guard by how easily he read the situation. “… Yeah, actually,” she replies, her voice quieter. “She already applied. There’s a pretty good chance she’ll get in too… she’s very smart” Ellen stares down at her hands, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on the fabric of her skirt.

“So, what’s your plan after high school?” Wise asks, glancing briefly in the rearview mirror as he drives. “Are you thinking about continuing your studies, or maybe going full-time at Victoria Housekeeping Co.?” His voice is casual, but there’s a hint of genuine curiosity beneath it.

Ellen shrugs, staring out the window at the passing streetlights. “I don’t really know… The pay’s good, I guess,” she says, her voice trailing off slightly, “but it’s also really exhausting.” She rubs her neck, feeling the tension creep in just thinking about the job.

Wise chuckles softly, his tone teasing but warm. “You find everything exhausting, don’t you?” Ellen opens her mouth to respond, but then pauses, realizing she doesn’t have much of a defense.

After a moment, she lets out a small sigh. “…Okay, fair point,” she admits, leaning back against the seat. “Although working for Victoria Housekeeping Co. isn’t all bad,” she continues, her voice a little softer now.

“I actually like it there. Everyone is also very nice, the job’s… well, it’s fine.” She shrugs again, though this time it feels more genuine, less like she’s brushing it off.

Wise’s gaze flickers back to her in the mirror for a second. “So, have you ever had a dream job in mind? Something you’ve always wanted to do?”

Ellen frowns slightly, her mind searching for an answer that doesn’t seem to come. She’s silent for a few moments before shaking her head. “...Not really,” she admits with a small sigh.

“There’s never been anything I’ve been passionate about, you know? No job I’ve been longing for or dreaming of. It’s just... work.” Her words hang in the air, heavy with the weight of her uncertainty. “I guess I’ve never thought that far ahead.”

“If you decide to go full-time with Victoria Housekeeping, maybe there’s more you could explore,” Wise says thoughtfully, his tone calm and supportive. “You know… the video store could probably use more help and when it comes to commission on inter-knot, having an agent at stand-by might be useful.”

“...Yeah, that’s true,” Ellen says slowly, her mind still turning over the possibilities Wise has laid out. She rests her chin in her hand, thinking for a moment before a slight grin breaks across her face.

“You’re actually making the idea of going full-time at Victoria Housekeeping sound... kind of appealing, not gonna lie” she admits with a small laugh.

“But you should still probably focus on getting your high school diploma first,” Wise says, his voice calm but firm as he turns into a small, unused parking lot behind the Random Play video store. 

he headlights briefly sweep over the empty spaces, casting long shadows on the brick walls. “Having that diploma in hand is still going to be really beneficial, no matter what you decide to do next,” he adds, glancing at Ellen in the rearview mirror.

Ellen nods, the corners of her mouth twitching into a faint smile. “Yeah, that’s true… I know,” she agrees, her voice relaxed but thoughtful. As Wise turns off the engine, the soft rumble of the car fades, leaving a quiet stillness. He pulls the key from the ignition, the metallic sound echoing in the silence, and they both step out into the cool night air.

Wise locks the car with a quiet beep, and the two make their way toward the back door of Random Play. The two of them step inside, the store isn’t too busy, just a handful of customers browsing the shelves, lost in their search for the perfect movie.

Behind the counter stands Belle, leaning casually with her arms crossed, next to 18, the store’s ever-cheerful Bangboo mascot, who’s busy promoting the latest film releases.

The moment the back door creaks open, Belle turns her head and her face lights up when she spots her brother. “Hey, bro!” she calls, raising her hand in greeting. Then her eyes shift, and she waves more enthusiastically when she sees Ellen. “Oh! Hi, Ellen!” she says, waving her entire arm in an exaggerated motion.

“Hey,” Ellen replies with a small wave, her voice carrying that same relaxed tone she always has. Belle tilts her head, resting her elbow on the counter as she leans forward, a playful grin on her face. “So, what brings you here?” she asks, her eyes flicking curiously between Ellen and Wise.

Ellen shrugs, “Just came by to vent a little,” she mutters, letting out a soft sigh. Her shoulders rise for a moment before slumping back down.

Belle raises an eyebrow, a teasing grin spreading across her face. “Uh-huh, couldn’t afford a therapist, huh?” she quips, leaning forward on the counter with a playful smirk. Ellen rolls her eyes in response. “I guess not,” she replies dryly, though there’s a faint smile tugging at her lips.

Belle chuckles, shaking her head. “Why bother paying for one when you’ve got my brother? He’s basically a free therapist anyway.” She waves her hand dismissively, then jerks her thumb toward the staircase. “Go on, you two. Get to it before I start charging a fee for loitering.”

Wise leads the way upstairs, the faint creak of the old wooden steps echoing through the quiet of the video store. Wise pushes open the door to his room, revealing a cozy space with a few shelves lined with old movie posters and books, the couch looking inviting beneath the warm glow of a lamp.

They settle in on the couch, the worn cushions sinking comfortably beneath them. Wise leans back, crossing his arms casually as he looks over at Ellen. “So,” he begins, his voice calm and steady. “What else is on your mind?”

Ellen exhales deeply, her fingers absentmindedly playing with the hem of her blouse. “I guess I still want to talk about what’s going to happen after high school…” she begins, her voice quieter now. “Not just with me, but with the others too.” She pauses, biting her lip for a moment before continuing.

“I mean, I want them to do what makes them happy. I really do. But…” She trails off, another sigh escaping her. “I really like my friend group the way it is now, and I’m scared of losing that.”

Her words hang in the air for a moment, heavy with emotion. “It’s like... I want to stay in New Eridu,” she admits, glancing up at Wise for a moment before looking away again. “But what if my friends don’t? What if they all move on, and I’m the only one left behind?”

Ellen leans forward, her elbows resting on her knees as she stares at the floor. “It’s not just that they might leave... it’s that time changes everything,” she murmurs, her voice thick with uncertainty.

“Like, I know we’re all going to grow up, and things are going to change. But I don’t want to lose what we have right now. Our group... it just works, you know? And I guess I’m scared that with time, with everyone going their own way, it’ll just... fade away.”

She looks up at Wise, her eyes searching his face for some kind of reassurance. “I want to stay close to them, but I don’t know if that’s even possible. I just don’t want time to take them away from me.” Her voice cracks slightly, betraying the depth of her worry.

Wise listens intently, his eyes softening as he leans forward slightly, his posture open, giving Ellen his full attention. “Yeah… time sure has a thing for doing that,” he says, his voice calm but thoughtful, like he’s considering the weight of her words.

“It has this way of slipping through our fingers before we even realize it, doesn’t it?” Wise says, as Ellen nods slowly, her expression still tinged with worry, but she stays quiet.

“But time also gives us something in return,” Wise continues, his gaze gentle as he speaks. “It gives us the gift of the life we’re living right now, the moments we’ve shared, the memories we’ve made along the way. Think about it. There was a time when your friends were strangers, right? But now, their faces feel so familiar, like they’ve been there all along, don’t they?” He pauses, watching as Ellen nods softly, her eyes downcast but listening closely.

“Those connections, those moments, they’re part of your story now,” Wise says, his voice soothing. “And yeah, you can be sad when they change or when they end, but you should also be glad they happened in the first place. Every memory, every event, they’re all chapters in your life’s story. They help shape you into the person you are now.”

“Right now, your high school life is coming to an end,” Wise continues, his voice taking on a more reflective tone. “It’s like finishing a chapter in a book, a chapter that’s been full of its own adventures, challenges, and friendships. And now, it’s time to start a new one. New characters, new experiences… maybe even new places. Everyone has to write their own chapters, you know? When we’re younger, the chapters are shorter, like tiny books we flip through quickly. But as we grow older, each chapter gets a little longer, a little more complex.”

Ellen listens quietly, her hands clasped in her lap as she takes in his words. Wise watches her for a moment, giving her time to absorb the idea before continuing. “But the best part?” he adds, his tone lightening just a little. “Those old chapters aren’t lost. They’re always there, in the back of your mind, or right here…” he reaches over and gently taps her forehead, then touches her chest over her heart.

Ellen’s eyes water slightly, her emotions welling up as she processes everything Wise has said. She glances at him, her throat tightening as she shakes her head, unable to find the words.

Wise leans back slightly, a soft smile spreading across his face, his tone becoming lighter and more playful. “You know what makes for a great episode in your story?” he asks, pausing for a moment, waiting for her to meet his gaze. “It’s when old characters make a reappearance. They’re not gone, Ellen. Your friends, they’re not going to disappear. They’re just following their own journeys, and who knows? They might circle back into your life when you least expect it.”

His smile widens, carefree and full of quiet confidence. “That’s the beauty of life. People come and go, but they leave a mark. And sometimes, they come back, right when you need them.”

Ellen wipes her eyes with the back of her arm, her breath a little shaky but steadier now. She inhales deeply, holding the breath for a moment before releasing it in a long hum, trying to ground herself.

“...Yeah,” she says softly, her voice clearer now. “I still have Lycoan, Rina, and Corin... and this store, too,” she adds with a small, almost wistful smile.

“… You really do live up to your name, you know?” Ellen says, a playful glint in her eye as she gives Wise a light punch on the shoulder.

“I just... wish we had better universities in New Eridu. There are a few, but they’re all kinda... mediocre,” she says, her voice trailing off as the weight of her thoughts creeps back in.

Ellen glances up at Wise, a hint of hope flickering in her eyes. “Do you think any of them will stay and go to one of those universities?” she asks, her voice soft, almost hopeful

But before Wise can respond, she shakes her head, her expression turning resigned. “No... don’t answer that. They probably won’t. I mean, if I were them, I wouldn’t either,” she says, a faint sigh escaping her lips. 

Wise watches her closely, his eyes calm and understanding, but he doesn’t interrupt. He knows she needs to voice these thoughts, even if they feel like a confirmation of something she’s afraid of.

“It’s probably better for them to study out of state,” Ellen murmurs, her gaze dropping to the floor. “They deserve to go to good universities, places that’ll really help them.” Her words sound more like she’s convincing herself than talking to Wise.

Wise nods thoughtfully, leaning back against the couch. “Well, that’s something for them to decide, isn’t it?” he says, his voice gentle but firm. “You want the best for them, but their path isn’t set in stone yet.”

“Yeah... yeah, I guess you’re right,” Ellen says with a heavy sigh, as if releasing the last bit of tension that had been weighing on her. She leans back against the couch, her posture more relaxed now.

“Okay, I’m done venting,” she adds, her usual lazy tone slipping back into place. “... now I’m bored,” she says, a long sigh escaping her lips as she slouches even further into the couch. Wise lets out a small yawn of his own, stretching his arms above his head until his joints pop.

“Well... is there anything you feel like doing?” Wise asks, leaning back into the couch with a small, easy smile, his tone as relaxed as ever. Ellen stretches her arms out lazily before settling back into her usual slouch, shaking her head with a yawn.

“No idea,” she mutters, her voice dragging slightly with tiredness. “But honestly, I’m fine with whatever... as long as you’re hanging around with me,” she adds, her lips curling into a faint smirk as she leans her head back against the cushions.

“How about we just throw on a movie, then?” Wise suggests, raising an eyebrow as he watches her slowly sinking into the couch. Ellen shrugs, her expression barely changing.

“Sure, why not?” she replies, sounding as casual as ever, though there’s a slight glint of curiosity in her eyes. Wise grins, his tone turning teasing. “You think you’ll actually make it through the whole thing without passing out this time?” he asks, chuckling softly.

Ellen raises an eyebrow, meeting his playful challenge. “What if I can?” she shoots back, her voice suddenly more alert, as if she’s daring him to underestimate her.

Wise hums, pretending to think it over, though the gleam in his eyes betrays his amusement. “Alright,” he says, drawing out the word with a smirk. “If you actually make it all the way through without falling asleep, I’ll treat you to a full meal at Simmer Hotpot,” he announces, his tone is light, but there’s a challenge hidden in his grin.

Ellen rubs her chin, clearly considering his offer. “Hmmm, Simmer Hotpot, huh?” she says, her eyes narrowing in mock seriousness. “And what if I lose?” she asks, raising an eyebrow as she leans toward him.

Wise shakes his head, his grin widening. “Nope, no downside for you,” he replies, leaning back comfortably. “A challenge for you, with no drawbacks.” His voice is full of confidence as if he’s already certain she’ll be out cold before the movie hits the ten-minute mark.

Ellen tilts her head, studying him, her lips curling into a half-smile. “So, you really don’t think I can stay awake, do you?” she asks, narrowing her eyes slightly, her voice low as if testing him. Wise meets her gaze, utterly calm, and with a smirk still on his lips. “Nope,” he says simply.

Wiseputs on a thriller, a film guaranteed to keep someone on edge. He puts in the tape, glancing over at Ellen to see if she’s ready for the challenge. The opening credits roll, the tension in the film building quickly with ominous music and shadowy visuals.

Ellen, to her credit, seems to be holding her own, her eyes fixed on the screen as the movie reaches its halfway mark. She stretches her arms, trying to subtly shake off the drowsiness creeping in.

As the movie progresses, Wise leans back into his spot on the couch, his attention divided between the tense scenes unfolding on screen and Ellen, who is clearly fighting off exhaustion.

Ellen shifts a little, trying to find a more comfortable position despite her large shark tail curling around her. Her eyes still glued to the TV, but her posture is starting to slump.

And then, without warning, Wise feels a soft weight against his shoulder. He glances over, chuckling under his breath when he sees Ellen’s head resting against him, her eyes finally closed.

“Victory,” he whispers with a quiet smile, careful not to disturb her. “Though I have to admit, you gave me a real scare there. I didn’t think you’d last this long.”

Wise reaches for his phone, “Jeez… it’s already that late?” he mutters under his breath, noticing the time flashing 21:58 on the screen. He glances at Ellen, still peacefully sleeping against his shoulder, her breathing steady and calm. The room feels much quieter now, with the TV still playing softly in the background.

Not wanting to wake her, Wise gently turns off the TV, the screen going dark with a soft click. The only noise in the house now is the faint sound of Belle in her room, her gaming console buzzing as she lets out a frustrated yell over something in the game.

Moving carefully so as not to wake her, Wise slides out from under Ellen’s weight, lowering her head gently onto the cushions. He stands up, stretching briefly before leaning down to pick her up. She stirs only slightly as he scoops her into his arms, her tail trailing behind her as he quietly opens the door to his room.

With slow, deliberate steps, Wise makes his way down the stairs and out into the cool night air. He unlocks the car and opens the back door, laying Ellen across the back seat with care.

Her large shark tail takes up most of the space, so he adjusts it, making sure it’s stretched out comfortably across the other seats. Once she’s settled, he carefully buckles her in, pausing for a moment to make sure she’s still fast asleep.

Satisfied, Wise climbs into the driver’s seat and starts the engine, the car humming softly to life. As the headlights pierce the quiet street, Wise casts one last glance in the rearview mirror at Ellen, her sleeping face peaceful and relaxed.

Wise starts the drive carefully, keeping the car at a slow, almost cautious speed, more like how an old-timer would drive. The city streets are a bitm more quiet at this hour, the streetlights casting long shadows on the empty roads.

As he navigates the familiar streets, he tries to remember where the Victoria Housekeeping Co. office is. After a few turns and a moment of searching, the building comes into view.

“Ah, there it is,” he mutters to himself, pulling in nearby and putting the car in park. The soft hum of the engine fades, leaving only the quiet of the night.

Wise steps out of the car, gently closing the door behind him. He moves to the back seat, opening it quietly before reaching in to lift Ellen out. She stirs only slightly as he gathers her in his arms, her tail making it a little tricky, but Wise manages to adjust her with care.

With Ellen cradled against his chest, he walks toward the entrance of Victoria Housekeeping, the faint glow of the porch light illuminating the otherwise dark street.

Once at the door, he hesitates for a moment. Both his hands are occupied, so knocking becomes a bit of a challenge. After a brief pause, he awkwardly taps his foot against the door, giving it a gentle kick.

It doesn’t take long before the door creaks open, revealing Rina, the headmaid. She blinks in mild surprise before offering a warm smile. “Good evening, Manager,” she says softly. “I hope I’m not disturbing you,” Wise begins, still holding the fast-asleep shark thiren in his arms. “But, uh... I thought I’d bring Ellen home.”

Rina chuckles quietly, stepping aside to let him in. “You’re not disturbing anything, don’t worry,” she says, holding out her arms. “Thank you for bringing her back. Here, let me take her from you.” With practiced ease, Rina lifts Ellen into her arms, adjusting her with motherly care.

As Rina shifts Ellen comfortably in her arms, she glances back at Wise. “Care to stay for a cup of tea? You’ve done quite a bit, bringing her home like this,” she offers with a smile, her tone soft and welcoming. There’s a sense of genuine gratitude in her voice.

Wise smiles, shaking his head gently. “I appreciate the offer, but I’ve got store duty tomorrow,” he says with a chuckle. “Gotta be well-rested for that.” He stretches his arms briefly, his own exhaustion starting to catch up with him.

Rina sighs good-naturedly, her expression lighthearted. “What a shame. You could’ve used some of our tea to unwind,” she teases. “But, I understand. Stay safe, Manager.” She steps back inside, closing the door softly behind her as Wise turns to head back to his car.

Rina floats quietly through the dimly lit hallway, holding Ellen carefully as she makes her way to the girl’s room. The soft glow of the nightlight casts long shadows on the walls, giving the space a calming, peaceful atmosphere.

Once inside, Rina sets Ellen down on the bed, her movements slow and deliberate, not wanting to disturb her. With a practiced hand, she changes Ellen into her shark onesie, tucking her in under the soft blankets. Ellen shifts slightly, murmuring something unintelligible, but remains fast asleep.

Rina smiles to herself, brushing a stray lock of hair away from Ellen’s face before quietly leaving the room. The door clicks shut behind her, leaving Ellen to rest peacefully.

As the first rays of morning light filter through the curtains, Ellen groggily opens her eyes, blinking against the brightness. She rubs her eyes softly, trying to shake off the haze of sleep. The familiar sight of her own room slowly comes into focus, and she lets out a long yawn, stretching her arms above her head.

It takes her a moment to realize where she is, and then it hits her. “Aw man...” she mutters under her breath, her voice still heavy with sleep. “I lost...” She sighs, flopping back against her pillow, staring at the ceiling. A faint memory surfaces, of the movie, of trying so hard to stay awake. But how did she get home?

“Did he really take me all the way back here?” she wonders aloud, shaking her head with a small, tired smile. Letting out another soft sigh, she pushes herself out of bed, still feeling a bit drowsy, but resigned to get ready for the day.

Chapter Text

The city hums with anticipation, draped in the glimmer of a thousand lights. Every street and rooftop has been adorned for this one night alone. The air is sharp and cold, smelling faintly of distant pine, and people huddle together in the streets, breath clouding in the air like whispered secrets. Somewhere beneath all the noise, there's a quietness, and I find myself awake, more alive than I’ve ever been, with you beside me. I don’t need no sleep… ‘Cause with you beside me, I’m already dreaming, already lost in the warmth of your presence.

In the pauses between seconds, I wonder if you feel it too… the sense that time itself has slowed to watch us. That just for now, the world has made room for us to exist like this, unhurried and unguarded, neither past nor future hanging over us, only the infinite now. I see you through my lucid eyes, sharper than any memory, clearer than any vision I could conjure. As people dance and cheer and count down to midnight, you’re the only person I’m aware of.

When the clock strikes twelve, there’s a collective inhale, a breath held before the plunge into the unknown, and then the sky blooms with bursts of color. Brilliant reds and golds, blues and greens that spill across your face in dazzling light. You turn to me with eyes that reflect the sparks. “Will you stay here with me?” And not just for the night… Promise… Say you’ll never leave, words written there all along, waiting for you to give them shape. I’ve never loved a feeling more, never wanted to cling to something so tightly.

The night deepens, the world slipping into the first hours. We walk through empty streets as the noise fades, leaving only the sound of our footsteps mingling in the quiet. I know there will be mornings after this, days filled with all the ordinary pieces of life, but tonight has already folded itself into a memory, one I’ll carry like a talisman. I don’t need no sleep, ‘Cause when you’re here, and for as long as you’re beside me... I’m already dreaming…

The air inside Lumina Square hums with holiday cheer, from the distant jingle of Christmas carols spilling out of shopfronts to the warm glow of twinkling fairy lights strung across every store window.

Ruby, wrapped in her bright pink jacket, walks beside Ellen, whose long shark tail swishes idly behind her.

The two friends wander past rows of bustling stores, their voices threading into the hum of the crowded mall.

“Say, Ellen,” Ruby begins, her hands shoved into her jacket pockets as she glances toward her friend, “what are your plans this Christmas?” Her voice is playful but curious, fishing for more than the surface answer.

Ellen shrugs, her expression as neutral as the gray tones of her shark tail that curls lightly behind her with each step.

“...Nothing really. I guess just spending time with family and stuff,” she says, her voice quiet and a little distracted.

Her crimson eyes flick toward a gaudy display window full of flashing lights and overstuffed stockings, but she doesn’t linger.

After a beat, she turns her head toward Ruby, her hesitation evident. “Hey, Ruby?” she says, her tone soft, like she’s testing the waters.

Ruby perks up immediately, her blond hair swaying against her shoulders as she turns to face Ellen with a smile. “Hmm?” she prompts, her interest piqued.

“Whazzup?” Ruby asks with a grin so knowing it might as well hold the secrets of the universe.

Ellen scratches at her cheek, her face suddenly a little pink. “...Nevermind,” Ellen mumbles, her hand waving in dismissal as she looks away, though her tail flicks behind her with a telltale snap. “Let’s just… keep shopping.”

But Ruby’s grin widens into a smirk, and her eyes gleam with mischievous curiosity, like she’s a cat who’s just spotted a particularly juicy mouse.

“I knew it!” Ruby squeals, bouncing on her toes as her hands shoot out to grab Ellen’s shoulder. Ellen stumbles slightly under the sudden assault, her shark tail swishing erratically in surprise.

“You’ve got your eyes on someone, don’t you?” Ruby declares with the confidence of someone who has no actual evidence.

Ellen freezes, her eyes going wide as her face flushes a deeper pink. “E-eh?!” she stammers, her voice cracking slightly as her gaze snaps to Ruby.

“W-what? H-how did you even-” She trips over her words, her sharp teeth clicking together in a nervous tic.

Ruby taps a finger against her lips, looking positively smug. “Oh? So I was right? Call it intuition!” she announces proudly, puffing out her chest like she’s just solved a mystery.

Ellen groans, her hands coming up to cover her face as Ruby basks in her triumph, the sound of Christmas carols providing a cheery backdrop to her teasing.

“Weeeeeell? Who is it?” Ruby presses, leaning in so close that Ellen can feel her friend’s warm breath brushing her cheek.

Ellen instinctively jerks her head back, her shark tail giving a little nervous flick behind her. Her cheeks flush faintly pink, but she avoids eye contact, staring at the floor as if it might suddenly save her.

“Ruby, back up,” she mutters, her voice clipped, but Ruby only grins wider, refusing to retreat.

“Is it someone from school?” Ruby asks, her finger darting out to poke Ellen’s cheek. “Come on, say something,” she teases, giving another light jab for emphasis.

Ellen swats Ruby’s hand away, but her movements are half-hearted, her blush betraying her usual composure.

“Ruby, stop it,” she mumbles, her voice barely above a mutter, but Ruby is relentless. She pokes Ellen again and again, her finger bouncing off Ellen’s slightly cool skin.

“Boop, boop, boop!” Ruby sing-songs, clearly enjoying herself. Ellen groans, slouching forward as if to escape, but her tail flicks in mild irritation.

“Eh-len!” Ruby drawls, dragging out her friend’s name in a sing-song tone that’s impossible to ignore.

She leans even closer, her head suddenly flopping onto Ellen’s shoulder like a lazy cat claiming its perch.

“You know I’m going to find out one way or another,” she declares, her voice dripping with playful confidence.

“...Ugh. You can be so annoying sometimes…” Ellen mutters, her shoulders slumping as she lets out a long-suffering sigh.

Unbothered Ruby winks at Ellen, sticking out her tongue with an exaggerated “bleh” that only makes her look more smug.

“I know,” Ruby chirps, proud of herself, and Ellen groans again, resisting the urge to shove her off entirely.

“You have to at least tell me where you met him!” Ruby pleads, clasping her hands together like she’s begging for a life-or-death secret.

“...Do I have to?” she mutters, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. “Yes!” Ruby practically shouts, nearly bouncing on her heels. With a deep, reluctant sigh, Ellen finally relents.

“...We met at… the video store. You know, the one over on Sixth Street,” she mumbles, her voice barely above a whisper.

She looks away, trying to pretend Ruby isn’t there, but the triumphant squeal that erupts from her friend’s lips proves she’s failed miserably.

“Okay! Okay! Give me a second here!” Ruby exclaims, throwing her hands up dramatically before planting them on her hips, her brow furrowing in mock seriousness.

She taps her chin with one finger, pacing in a small circle like she’s Sherlock Holmes solving a grand mystery.

“...Hmm… no, no, nope ... definitely not him… no no noooo no,” she mutters under her breath, ticking off invisible names in her head as her fingers waggle dismissively in the air.

Her voice grows quieter, but her exaggerated mannerisms remain loud enough to draw a few curious glances from nearby passersby.

“...What are you doing?” Ellen finally asks, her voice a mix of confusion and disbelief as she watches Ruby’s bizarre performance unfold.

Before Ellen can say anything else, Ruby suddenly throws up one hand, stopping just inches from Ellen’s face as if commanding silence.

“Wha-” Ellen stammers, stumbling back a step as her brow furrows in alarm. Ruby’s eyes narrow, and she holds her hand steady, looking every bit like a psychic channeling some great cosmic revelation.

Ruby freezes mid-motion, her outstretched hand still hovering in front of Ellen’s face. Then, like a lightning bolt, an idea strikes her.

Her eyes widen, and her entire posture shifts, her energy spiking as she sucks in a dramatic gasp.

“It’s him , isn’t it?!” she cries, hopping in place as if she can barely contain herself. Before Ellen can process what’s happening, Ruby bounces forward, planting herself directly in front of Ellen with such force that their noses are almost touching.

Ellen takes a reflexive step back, but Ruby follows, her face now so close that Ellen can’t help but lean away, her blush deepening by the second.

“W-what?” Ellen stammers, her words coming out in a rush of air as her hands awkwardly rise to defend some invisible line of personal space.

“W-who do you even- what are you talking about?” she sputters, her blush now creeping up to the tips of her ears.

Ruby, however, is utterly unfazed. With the speed of someone making a bold chess move, she presses a single finger against Ellen’s lips, shushing her without a hint of shame.

“Hush,” Ruby says firmly, her grin widening like a cat who’s just cornered its prey. “Let me finish.”

“It’s the silver-haired guy!” Ruby declares triumphantly, as though she’s just cracked the greatest mystery of the decade.

“The one we saw at Lumina Square a few weeks ago! When we were about to see that movie!” Her voice is loud enough to turn a few heads, but she doesn’t seem to care in the slightest.

Ruby crosses her arms, her grin practically glowing with self-satisfaction, as though she’s just won a game Ellen didn’t even know they were playing.

Ellen, on the other hand, feels her stomach drop. “W-what are you- No! I don’t-” she starts, but her words falter under Ruby’s intense gaze. Her tail gives a sharp, nervous flick behind her, betraying her utter lack of composure.

“Tuh, tuh, tuh…” Ruby clicks her tongue, swaying her finger from side to side like a teacher scolding a wayward student.

Her smirk widens, the corners of her lips quirking mischievously. “You cannot lie to me, Ellen. We’ve been friends way too long for that.” She plants one hand on her hip, tilting her head with exaggerated confidence.

“Guh…” Ellen groans aloud, planting her hand against the side of her head like she’s bracing herself for a headache.

Her fingers tangle briefly in her dark hair before she lets out a long, drawn-out sigh. “... How can one person be so stupid yet so smart at the same time?” she mutters, her voice tinged with exasperation.

Ruby strikes a superhero pose on the spot, legs spread wide and one fist planted firmly on her hip while the other juts skyward in triumph.

“I don’t know!” she exclaims, her voice booming with mock grandeur. “I just am ! Huhuhuh!” She lets out a dramatic, overly loud laugh that echoes faintly through the mall.

Ellen takes a step back, her shark tail flicking behind her in secondhand embarrassment. “Please stop… we’re in public…” Ellen mutters under her breath, her shoulders hunching slightly as she cringes at her friend’s theatrics.

“Alright!” Ruby exclaims, clapping her hands together like she’s just made a life-altering decision.

“Let’s get him something nice for Christmas before I leave on vacation!” Before Ellen can react, Ruby grabs her by the wrist and begins dragging her toward the nearest store with all the enthusiasm of someone leading a parade.

“Hey-” Ellen blurts, nearly tripping over her own feet as Ruby drags her forward. “Huh? Why are you taking me to the toy store ?” she asks, her tone caught somewhere between incredulous and resigned.

Ruby throws her a look over her shoulder, as if the answer should be obvious. “Because, duh, what boy doesn’t like Legos?” she declares with absolute certainty.

Ellen groans, dragging a hand down her face, but her resolve falters. “...Wise isn’t like most boys,” she mutters, glancing away. “But… you have a point…” she admits reluctantly, her voice trailing off.

“Ohhh~ his name is Wise ?” Ruby says, practically spinning on her heel to face Ellen, her grin so wide it threatens to split her face in two.

The gleam in her eyes is equal parts excitement and smug satisfaction, like she’s just uncovered a treasure chest of secrets.

Ellen freezes for a moment, her brain scrambling to figure out how to backtrack. “Gah,” she curses silently in her head. But it’s no use. “... Yes,” she admits with a defeated sigh, her voice barely above a whisper.

“And it seems like you also know quite a bit about this guy…” Ruby muses, tapping a finger dramatically against her lips as if she’s deep in thought.

Her eyes narrow, but her grin widens, brimming with playful mischief. “...Could it be that you’ve been hanging out with him behind our backs ?” she accuses with a gasp, her mock outrage undercut by the smug smirk curling at the edges of her lips.

Ellen stiffens, her shark tail giving a sharp flick of annoyance behind her as her cheeks flush pink. “C-can we just shop for the gift already?!” Ellen blurts, her voice pitching higher than she intended.

Ruby’s grin doesn’t falter for a second. If anything, it only grows more triumphant as she watches Ellen squirm. “Okay, okay, we’ll go shop for a gift,” Ruby says, waving her hand dismissively like she’s doing Ellen a favor.

She starts leading the way toward the toy store, her smug energy practically radiating off her. Ellen exhales sharply, trying to calm the heat creeping up her face.

The toy store is a riot of color and sound, with rows of shelves stacked high with action figures, plush toys, and towering Lego sets.

The jingling of a bell at the counter and the chatter of other shoppers fill the air as Ruby and Ellen wander through the aisles. Ruby occasionally stops to poke at random toys with interest, but Ellen barely notices.

They eventually stop in front of the massive Lego section, Ellen’s eyes dart from one set to another, her brows furrowing in concentration.

“ Which one would Wise like best?” she wonders, scanning the intricate designs of castles, space stations, and race cars. Her sharp teeth lightly graze her bottom lip as she considers each option, trying to match a set to what she knows about him.

Ruby watches Ellen with amusement, her friend’s intense focus almost comical as she scrutinizes every Lego box in front of her.

With a grin, Ruby saunters over to a lower shelf and picks up a box featuring a bright yellow rat with red cheeks, its oversized eyes staring out cheerfully from the packaging.

“What about this one?” Ruby asks, holding it up with a flourish. Ellen glances over and immediately shakes her head, her expression flat. “...No. That one’s from a kids’ show,” she replies dryly, crossing her arms.

Ruby puffs out her cheeks in mock offense, clutching the box dramatically to her chest. “Hey! It’s for all ages, ” she protests, muttering under her breath as if defending her own TV habits.

Ruby gently sets the box back on the shelf with a small huff, still muttering something about “all ages.”

Ellen ignores her, her gaze finally landing on a set featuring a sleek gray shark with gleaming fins, surrounded by a detailed underwater scene.

Her eyes linger on the box for a moment too long. Ruby, quick to notice, follows her line of sight, and her grin instantly returns, bigger and more smug than ever.

She sidles up next to Ellen, nudging her playfully with her elbow. “...Surely that would work, huh?” Ruby says, her voice dripping with teasing glee.

Ellen’s face burns hot, her cheeks a shade of pink that matches the holiday decorations lining the store. “S-shut up,” she mumbles, her tail flicking once in frustration as she stubbornly avoids Ruby’s gaze.

Ellen shifts uncomfortably, her hands twitching at her sides as she debates whether to reach for the shark Lego set or pretend she didn’t see it.

Ruby, of course, doesn’t let up. With a gleeful hum, she grabs the box off the shelf herself and shoves it firmly into Ellen’s arms.

“We’re getting this one,” Ruby declares confidently, crossing her arms like the matter is already settled.

Ellen stares at the box in her hands, her blush deepening as the shark on the cover seems to mock her. “You’re impossible,” she mumbles, but she also doesn’t want to put the box back.

“So? You’re really going with this one?” Ruby teases, leaning forward until her face is inches from the Lego box that Ellen is using as an improvised shield.

Ellen’s fingers tighten their grip on the edges of the box, and she shifts it higher, hiding the pink tint creeping up her cheeks. “...Yeah,” she mutters, her voice barely audible.

Ruby’s grin doesn’t falter as she straightens up, practically bouncing on her heels. “Alright! Let’s get to the checkout!” she declares, grabbing Ellen’s sleeve and dragging her toward the front of the store with far too much enthusiasm.

Ellen stumbles slightly, clutching the Lego box like it’s her last line of defense, her shark tail flicking nervously behind her. As they approach the counter, a rabbit Thiren in a neat store uniform finishes ringing up the customer in front of them.

Once the counter is clear, Ellen hesitates before stepping forward, clutching the box tightly for just a second longer. She places it on the counter with more care than necessary, as if the Lego set is made of glass.

The rabbit Thiren, her gray hair neatly groomed and her bright eyes glancing over the box, tilts her head slightly. “Lego, huh?” she says, her voice warm and friendly, though a little amused.

“A gift, perhaps?” Ellen nods quickly, her hands fumbling to push a strand of hair behind her ear. “Y-yeah… Could you wrap it up for me?” she asks, her voice softer than usual.

“Consider it done, darling,” the rabbit Thiren replies smoothly, her voice carrying the easy charm of someone who’s done this a thousand times before.

She picks up the box with practiced hands, taking it to a small table behind the counter. The soft crinkle of wrapping paper fills the air as she works quickly, folding and taping with precision.

Ellen watches, her fingers fiddling nervously with the edge of her sleeve. Behind her, Ruby rocks on her heels, her mischievous grin still firmly in place as she scans the store like she’s expecting to find more teasing material.

“That’ll be 5500 dennies,” the rabbit says cheerfully as she places the neatly wrapped box on the counter.

Ellen pulls out her phone, fumbling slightly as she opens her payment app. The rabbit Thiren scans the QR code with a practiced swipe, placing the wrapped gift into a simple bag.

“Here you go, darling,” she says, her soft voice paired with a polite smile. “Come again” Ellen takes the bag with a small nod, mumbling a quiet, “Thank you,” before stepping aside.

Ruby follows her out of the store, her grin returning the moment they’re out of earshot.

“So,” Ruby says, her tone dripping with mock seriousness. “What’s the plan now, huh? Deliver it to your boyfriend in person?” Ellen groans, her face flushing as she tries to ignore her friend’s relentless teasing.

“Uuurghh…” Ellen groans, pressing the bag to her face as if it could somehow shield her from the weight of her own words.

“...I’ll give it to him tomorrow,” she mumbles through the crinkling of the bag, her voice trailing off. “On Christmas Eve…” The words sound hesitant, like she’s trying to convince herself.

Ruby lets out a soft chuckle, shoving her hands casually into the pockets of her jacket. “That works too,” she says, her grin dimming slightly as her gaze flickers toward the festive decorations hanging across the mall.

“I really wanted to celebrate New Year’s with everyone, but, well…” She shrugs, rolling one shoulder lazily as if trying to brush off her disappointment.

“My parents have other plans. What can you do?” Her tone is light, but there’s a small tinge of regret lurking underneath her words.

Ellen lowers the bag slowly, her fingers gripping the edges as if reluctant to let it go. “...It’s fine,” she says, her voice quieter now, as though she’s trying to convince herself.

“It seems like everyone’s splitting up for Christmas and New Year’s this year anyway.” Her shoulders sag slightly.

“It’s just how things are, I guess…” she mutters, letting out a soft sigh that lingers in the chilly air.

“Yeah… I suppose so,” Ruby replies, her voice quieter now, her grin softening into something more thoughtful.

She buries her hands deeper into her jacket pockets, her boots scuffing lightly against the tiled floor as the two of them approach the mall’s entrance.

The cold evening air greets them as the automatic doors slide open, carrying the faint scent of snow and pine.

Ruby tilts her head toward the nearby bus stop, her blond hair shifting slightly in the breeze. “I’ve got to catch the next route 16 bus,” she says, nodding toward the sign where a few people are already waiting.

“My parents are over at Grandpa and Grandma’s place, I won’t be taking the metro” Her tone is casual, but there’s a flicker of longing in her expression as she mentions her family.

“Alright,” she says, her voice soft but steady. Her gaze lingers on Ruby for a moment before she adds, “Thanks for making time today. It… means a lot.” Ruby flashes her usual grin, bright and carefree, as she adjusts the strap of her bag.

“No problem!” she chirps, her tone as lively as ever. “I’ll be back before your birthday, so don’t go missing me too much,” she adds with a playful wink.

“Bye-bye, Ellen!” Ruby calls out, her voice carrying a cheerful lilt as she waves one hand high above her head. Her grin hasn’t faded, and it doesn’t seem like it will anytime soon.

Ellen raises her hand in return, her wave slower but just as genuine. “Later…” she replies, watching her friend jog toward the bus stop with her usual energetic bounce. 

Ellen turns and crosses the road, the faint hum of the metro station in the distance drawing her forward.

The holiday lights strung along the streets twinkle faintly in the growing dusk, and Ellen lets out a small sigh, her grip tightening on the gift bag. “Tomorrow,” she mutters to herself, her steps quickening as she heads for the station.

“DID SOMEBODY LOSE A SHINY PURPLE LEOPARD PRINT BAG W-WITH A BALD MAN BOBBLEHEAD ON IT?!” A shaky, high-pitched voice cuts through the bustling noise of the metro station square like a clumsy blade.

The snippets of conversations and the clatter of footsteps momentarily pause as several heads turn toward the source of the outburst.

Ellen flinches slightly, her ears perking up as recognition dawns. “...That’s Corin,” she mutters under her breath, instantly recognizing the voice of her green-haired co-worker.

Someone who, in Ellen’s experience, could barely muster the confidence to raise her voice above a whisper.

Ellen exhales sharply, her shark tail flicking with mild surprise as she processes what just happened.

Corin, her shy, green-haired co-worker, was the last person Ellen ever expected to make such a loud scene.

“What on earth had pushed her to yell like that?” Ellen shakes her head, a small spark of curiosity driving her to investigate.

Ellen weaves through the small clusters of commuters lingering in the square. Her sharp eyes lock onto a familiar figure, short, with green twin ponytails that bob with every nervous movement.

Corin stands in the middle of the path, her amethyst-colored eyes wide and shimmering with nervous energy as she hands over a garishly bright bag to a middle-aged woman.

Even from a distance, Ellen can see the slight tremble in her co-worker’s hands, though Corin manages to plaster on a timid smile. “ She actually did it,” Ellen thinks, a mixture of surprise.

“T-thank you, Master Proxy- eh, thank you, Manager…” Corin stammers, her voice wobbling as she clutches her hands tightly in front of her. She sniffles softly, her shoulders hunching like she’s trying to make herself smaller.

“Without you, I probably couldn’t have mustered up the confidence…” Her words trail off, and she sniffles again, rubbing at her arm nervously. “...That was so scary,” she admits, her voice breaking on the last word.

As the woman walks away, Ellen’s eyes flicker to the side, and that’s when she sees him. Her breath catches, her body stiffening instinctively.

“ Wise?!” Her thoughts immediately spiral into chaos, her shark tail giving a sharp flick of agitation. Why is he here?! she demands internally, her heart thudding uncomfortably in her chest. 

Wise, calm and composed as usual, stands a few steps away from Corin, his silver hair catching the dim glow of the metro’s overhead lights.

He offers Corin a small nod and a brief smile before waving goodbye, his movements casual and unhurried.

Ellen’s gaze follows him as he turns and begins walking toward the parking lot ahead, completely unaware of her presence.

Ellen shakes her head, letting out a long huff, her footsteps echo against the tiled floor as she approaches Corin.

“You shouting wasn’t on my Christmas list this year, you know,” Ellen says dryly, her voice carrying its usual monotone calm.

Her sharp teeth flash briefly in a small, teasing smirk as she stops in front of Corin. Corin flinches slightly, her twin ponytails bouncing as she looks up, her face already turning pink with embarrassment.

“M-miss Ellen! I-I uh…” Corin stammers, her voice barely above a squeak as she begins nervously poking her index fingers together. Her amethyst eyes dart to the floor, and her shoulders hunch as if she’s trying to make herself smaller.

Ellen sighs, her tone softening as she places one hand lightly on her hip. “Relax, Corin,” she says, her sharp eyes softening slightly.

“And drop the miss, ” she adds with a raised eyebrow. “I’ve told you that a dozen times already.” There’s no irritation in her voice, just the steady patience of someone who’s used to repeating herself.

“R-right…” Corin whispers, her voice trembling slightly as she glances up at Ellen. She blinks in surprise when Ellen’s hand suddenly rests on her head, the gesture warm and steady.

“Good job,” Ellen says simply, her tone still calm but laced with quiet approval. Corin’s face flushes pink again, but this time there’s a small, grateful smile pulling at the corners of her lips. She straightens her posture slightly and gives a firm nod. 

“Let’s go home,” Ellen adds, turning toward the station entrance. The two walk side by side into the metro station, their footsteps falling in sync as the faint hum of an approaching train echoes in the distance.

XXX

(9:41) Ellen: Hey Wise, can I come over later today?
(9:45) Wise: Ellen? You’re awake this early?!
(9:45) Wise: Is this really Ellen?
(9:45) Wise: Or an imposter?
(9:46) Ellen: … I’m going to bite your head off…
(9:47) Wise: Ah!
(9:47) Wise: I’m sorry, please don’t… (｡•́︿•̀｡)
(9:48) Ellen: … well?
(9:48) Wise: Sure, come by whenever you feel like it
(9:49) Ellen: I’ll come by in an hour or something…
(9:51) Wise: Sure! ( ദ്ദി ˙ᗜ˙ )

Ellen stares at her phone for a second longer, her lips twitching faintly into something that isn’t quite a smile.

Ellen tosses her phone onto the couch, leaning back just as the smell of something… questionable wafts through the air.

Her shark tail flicks instinctively as Rina walks out of the kitchen, balancing a plate of food with her usual carefree smile. Ellen stiffens.

The plate isn’t the problem… Rina is. The beige-haired woman, with her perpetual optimism, infamous for her culinary disasters…

Ellen’s sharp eyes narrow as she quickly scans the plate, bracing herself for whatever concoction is coming her way.

“Where’s the boss?” Ellen asks cautiously, eyeing the plate as Rina sets it down on the dining table with far too much enthusiasm.

“Oh? Good morning, Ellen!” Rina chirps, her tone so cheerful. “Lycaon’s running an early commission today, so I took it upon myself to prepare breakfast!” She beams proudly.

Ellen’s gaze flickers to the plate… a pile of something lumpy, purple, and… oozing? Her sharp teeth press together tightly as she forces herself to keep her expression neutral.

“You shouldn’t have. Thanks, Rina,” Ellen says, forcing her voice to sound as neutral and polite as possible.

You really shouldn’t have, she thinks, eyeing the plate as though it might sprout legs and attack her.

Reluctantly, she picks up her spoon and takes a cautious bite. The moment it hits her tongue, she regrets every decision that led her to this moment.

The texture is a confusing mix of slimy and crunchy, the flavor somehow both bitter and burnt. She swallows quickly, suppressing a grimace as she takes a sip of water to wash it down.

“It’s… great, Rina,” Ellen lies through her teeth, her tail giving a small flick of betrayal behind her.

“Don’t encourage her! Don’t you dare encourage her!!!” Ellen’s inner voice practically screams.

But her hesitation is just long enough for Rina’s pleased smile to widen. “That so? Why thank you, Ellen,” Rina chirps, her voice brimming with confidence as if Ellen’s half-hearted approval was the highest of compliments.

“Do you think I should prepare something big for Christmas dinner?” Rina asks, clasping her hands together as though the idea alone is pure genius.

Ellen freezes, the thought of another one of Rina’s big culinary experiments sends a shiver down her spine.

Slowly, reluctantly, she raises a shaky thumbs up, her hand trembling like she’s signing her own death warrant. “Go for it…” she mutters, her voice flat.

Rina clasps her hands together “Thanks for your input, Ellen! I’ll get started right away!” she says, practically skipping toward the kitchen.

Ellen watches her go, an invisible weight pressing down on her shoulders. What have I done? she thinks as the faint sound of clattering bowls drifts out of the kitchen.

Ellen forces herself to finish the plate. Her bitter expression only deepens with every crunchy, slimy, or mysteriously chewy mouthful.

Rising from her seat, she grabs the plate with exaggerated care, half afraid it might still bite back, and walks to the sink.

Rina flashes her a pleased smile, Ellen nods lightly, keeping her expression as neutral as possible “I’ll be out for a while,” she replies.

“Alright, be safe, dear!” Rina calls out cheerfully, her focus now on something she’s stirring in a large mixing bowl.

Ellen’s gaze catches on the sight of long, slimy octopus tentacles draped over the edge of the bowl. Whatever Rina’s making, it’s ambitious… and probably deadly.

Ellen doesn’t let her expression slip, as she quickly turns on her heel and walks out of the kitchen.

Ellen lets out a soft sigh “It’s about the spirit… right?” she mutters to herself, her tone flat but edged with a touch of weary sarcasm.

She pushes the door of Victoria Housekeeping Co.’s building open, stepping into the snowy street outside.

The faint jingle of a bell above the door fades behind her as she fishes her earbuds out of her jacket pocket.

With a quick swipe on her phone, she selects a playlist, the soft hum of music slipping into her ears as she begins her walk toward the metro station.

“No work today too…” Ellen muses as she slips her phone into her jacket pocket, the music shifting to a familiar, easy rhythm in her ears.

“ It’s been a while since I’ve had two days in a row to just wear regular clothes.” She glances down at her outfit.

The snowy road stretches out ahead of her, the soft crunch of her boots blending with the faint whistle of the winter wind.

When she reaches the metro station, she steps up to the entrance, brushing a thin layer of snow from her jacket sleeve.

She pulls out her metro pass and taps it against the scanner. Descending the stairs, she’s greeted by the familiar mix of sounds, echoing footsteps, the low rumble of metro’s pulling in and out, and the faint murmur of conversations.

When the metro screeches to a stop in front of her, Ellen steps through the opening doors. She glances around the car, nearly every seat is occupied, most by tired commuters bundled up in winter coats and scarves.

Ellen doesn’t feel like squeezing into the narrow space next to a stranger, the thought of idle small talk or accidental eye contact making her shark tail flick with mild irritation.

Instead, she grabs onto one of the poles, wrapping her hand around the cold, smooth metal. The train lurches forward, and she shifts her weight to steady herself, leaning back slightly as she lets the music in her ears drown out the noise around her.

The metro car jolts to a stop, and the familiar automated voice announces her station: “Sixth Street”.

Ellen lets out a quiet breath, stepping through the sliding doors and onto the platform. The air here feels colder, the faint draft from the open stairwells biting against her cheeks.

The station is less crowded than the last, the buzz of commuters replaced by the distant echo of footsteps.

As she ascends the stairs, the muted sunlight filters down from the street above, reflecting off the snow-covered rooftops of nearby buildings.

She pulls her earbuds out, letting the cool air hit her ears as she steps into the open. Sixth Street greets her with its usual mix of cozy charm and quiet bustle.

As Ellen continues walking down the snowy road, her sharp eyes catch sight of the silver-haired proxy and his bluenette sister busily decorating the front of their small shop.

Twinkling fairy lights already frame the windows, reflecting softly against the frosted glass, while a wreath adorned with bright red ribbons hangs proudly on the door.

Wise stands precariously on a ladder, his silver hair catching the pale winter sunlight as he stretches toward the far corner of the shopfront.

Belle, her blue hair swaying with every movement, grips the base of the ladder with both hands, her gaze flickering between her brother’s balancing act and the decorations piled nearby.

“Just a little further…” Wise mutters under his breath, his silver eyebrows furrowing in concentration as he stretches his arm to hook the final string of lights around the far corner.

His toes barely balance on the edge of the step, the ladder wobbling slightly beneath him. “Don’t you dare fall, Wise!” Belle calls up, her hands gripping the ladder tighter as she braces her weight against it.

Belle catches movement in the corner of her eye and turns her head to spot Ellen approaching down the road, her gray sweater and scarf standing out against the soft white of the snowy street.

“Ellen! Nice to see you!” Belle calls out brightly, her grip on the ladder loosening ever so slightly in her excitement. Ellen raises a hand in greeting, about to respond, but a sudden yelp cuts through the chilly air.

Both women freeze as the ladder gives a lurch, and Wise’s silhouette teeters at the top for one precarious moment before gravity claims him.

There’s a heavy thud as Wise crashes into the snowbank below, a soft cloud of powder puffing into the air on impact.

Belle’s head slowly swivels back toward the fallen ladder, her face darkening with dread as sweat begins to bead on her forehead. “O-o-oopsie…” she mumbles nervously, not daring to look fully at the snow-dusted figure groaning behind her.

By the time they make it inside the shop, Wise is thoroughly bundled up on the sofa, looking like a disgruntled burrito.

A towel is draped over his head, his silver hair still damp from melting snow, while a thick, plaid blanket is wrapped tightly around his shoulders.

He holds a steaming mug of something warm in his hands, though his expression is one of pure annoyance as he stares at the floor.

The faint jingling of Christmas music plays from the shop’s radio, the cheery tune completely at odds with the heavy silence hanging in the air.

“I-I’m s-so sorry, brother!” Belle sobs, her hands clasped tightly in front of her as she leans forward, practically bowing every time she apologizes.

“I didn’t mean to let go of the ladder! I swear I was holding it, just… just for a second, I got distracted!” Her voice wavers as tears threaten to spill from her wide, guilt-ridden eyes.

“Belle, it’s fine,” Wise mutters, though his voice is muffled slightly as he sips from his mug. He’s still shivering faintly beneath the blanket, the tip of his nose red from the cold. “I’m not dead yet…” 

“Are you alright, Proxy?” Ellen asks, her voice calm but edged with a trace of genuine concern. She sinks down into the chair beside the silver-haired proxy, her sharp eyes scanning him briefly.

Wise nods weakly, his shoulders visibly trembling beneath the thick plaid blanket draped over him. His damp silver hair clings stubbornly to his forehead, and his normally composed expression is replaced with a faint grimace. 

I-I’ll be fine in a whiff…” he murmurs, his teeth chattering slightly as he shifts to pull the blanket tighter around himself. “J-just gotta stay like this for a while.”

“Well, if you two don’t mind,” Ellen begins, glancing between Wise and Belle as she leans back slightly in her chair, her hands resting casually on her knees.

“Lycaon and Rina asked me to invite whoever I want for Christmas dinner tonight.” Her tone is measured, as always, but there’s a faint softness to her voice that makes the offer feel sincere.

“If you’d like, the two of you could show up,” she adds, her sharp teeth just barely peeking out as she gives them a small, almost shy smile.

“Sure! We’d love to!” Belle exclaims, her blue ponytail bouncing as she claps her hands together with excitement. Her go-lucky tone fills the room, a stark contrast to her brother’s subdued presence beside her.

“It sounds like fun!” she adds brightly, her eyes sparkling. Then, with a curious tilt of her head, she looks back at Ellen. “So, was that the only reason you came by? Or is there something else?”

Ellen blinks, momentarily caught off guard by Belle’s energy. She shrugs lightly, her gaze shifting off to the side. “I also came to hang out… I guess,” Ellen mutters, her gaze flicking sideways as if the admission costs her something.

Her hands shift slightly in her lap, and her shark tail flicks once behind her chair before settling still again.

Belle’s grin widens, her hands resting on her hips as she gives a playful hum. “I see, I see! Well then, I’ll leave you two to it. Someone’s gotta watch the store, after all!” she declares, spinning on her heel.

She waves a hand over her shoulder as she heads toward the door, her blue ponytail swinging behind her. “Have fun!” she calls back cheerfully before disappearing into the hall.

Ellen and Wise both watch as Belle’s bright energy seems to linger in the room long after she’s gone, the faint sound of her footsteps fading down the hall.

Ellen shifts in her seat, glancing briefly at Wise before turning her head fully toward him. “Did I come at a bad time?” she asks, her voice quieter now, almost uncertain.

Wise shakes his head, a small but genuine smile breaking through his otherwise tired expression. “Nah, it’s fine,” he replies softly, his grip loosening slightly on the mug in his hands.

“Actually… it’s kind of nice to have some company.” His silver hair falls messily over his forehead as he leans back, the towel slipping slightly off his head.

Ellen’s lips twitch faintly, almost imperceptibly, before she settles back into her chair. “Good,” she mutters.

“Want a sip, Ellen?” Wise asks, holding his steaming mug of hot cacao out toward her with a small smile. His tone is casual, but there’s a hint of warmth in it, like he’s trying to coax her into relaxing.

Ellen flinches slightly, her eyes darting to the mug and back to Wise’s face. “ Why does he always do things like this so casually?” she wonders, feeling a small flutter of hesitation.

But she quickly shakes it off and reaches out, wrapping her hands around the warm ceramic. “Sure… thanks,” she mutters, lifting the mug to her lips.

The rich, sweet aroma wafts up as she takes a slow sip, the warmth spreading down her throat and into her chest.

After a moment, she hands the mug back to him, careful not to let their fingers brush. “It’s good,” she says simply, her voice quieter than usual.

Wise takes the mug back and sips his hot cacao, his silver hair slightly messy from the towel still draped over his shoulders. The room falls into a heavy, quiet rhythm, the faint hum of Christmas music drifting in from the shop’s main floor.

Ellen shifts slightly in her seat, her fingers curling into the fabric of her sweater as she glances sideways at him.

The silence stretches just a little too long for her comfort, pressing on her like a weight. Finally, she clears her throat, breaking the stillness. “Hey, Wise…?” she says softly, her voice hesitant but clear.

Wise turns his head toward her, his eyes softening as he studies her expression. “Mhm? What’s up?” he replies, his voice calm and inviting.

Ellen hesitates, her fingers fidgeting in her lap as she avoids his gaze. She takes a steadying breath, forcing herself to push through the nervous flutter in her chest.

“I just… wanted to thank you,” she begins, her voice barely above a murmur. “For everything you’ve done for me these past months.” Her words hang in the air for a moment.

“It means a lot to me… to have someone like you around,” Ellen continues, her voice soft but steady, though her cheeks warm as she speaks.

She risks a quick glance at him, before she looks away again. The heat rising in her face felt like a betrayal, but the words needed to be said.

Wise’s expression softens further, and a small, genuine smile tugs at his lips. “Sure,” he says, his tone gentle, almost soothing. “You’re also a pleasure to be around, Ellen. Don’t sell yourself short.”

His words land heavier than he probably intended, and Ellen’s cheeks grow even hotter. She quickly looks away, her shark tail twitching erratically behind her as if it’s determined to betray her flustered state.

Ellen sneaks another glance at him but quickly looks away when their eyes almost meet. Her chest feels tight, and she swears her face is burning at this point. Wise’s comment plays on a loop in her head, making it impossible to focus on anything else.

Her tail gives an uncooperative flick behind her, and she groans internally. “ Stop it, stop it, stop it,” she thinks furiously, reaching back to grab it with both hands and force it still.

She tightens her grip on the unruly appendage, her sharp teeth worrying her bottom lip as she silently wills herself to calm down.

Wise raises an eyebrow, clearly noticing her odd behavior, but he doesn’t comment. Instead, he takes another quiet sip of his hot cacao, a faint smile lingering on his face as he watches her out of the corner of his eye.

“You wanna watch a movie?” Wise asks, leaning back into the sofa with a small, easy grin. His silver hair falls messily over his forehead, and the mug of now-lukewarm hot cacao rests loosely in his hands.

Ellen glances at him, her expression neutral, though her sharp teeth graze her bottom lip in thought. “Sure, why not,” she replies with a shrug, her voice calm but carrying a faint hint of interest.

Wise gestures lazily toward the open cabinet beneath the retro TV. “Go ahead and pick one out,” he says. “There should be a few decent ones in there.”

Ellen pushes herself off the sofa and strolls over to the cabinet, crouching slightly to peer inside.

Her fingers trail along the spines of the VHS tapes. She pauses briefly at a couple of titles before finally settling on 7710 and Its Cat ..

Sliding the tape out, she straightens up and walks over to the VHS player, the faint hum of the retro TV buzzing softly in the background.

She presses the tape into the slot and watches as the machine whirs to life. The screen flickers briefly before the grainy image rolls in, accompanied by the muffled tones of a jazzy opening theme.

Ellen sinks back onto the sofa, pulling her legs up slightly as the movie begins. The warm glow of the retro TV fills the dim room, casting faint, flickering light across the walls.

Both of them watch in companionable silence, Wise sipping occasionally from his mug while Ellen leans further into the soft cushions.

Ellen’s eyelids grow heavier with each passing minute. The warmth of the room, combined with the steady rhythm of the movie, lulls her into a state of relaxation.

Her shark tail curls loosely beside her, and before she knows it, her eyes close entirely. Her breathing slows, and she drifts off soundlessly, her head leaning slightly against the back of the sofa.

…

Ellen’s nose twitches slightly as the faint light from the TV flickers against her closed eyelids. She stirs, letting out a soft groan as her sharp teeth click faintly together mid-yawn.

Blinking groggily, she lifts her head and rubs at her eyes, her movements slow and heavy with lingering sleep.

“Morning, sleepyhead,” Wise teases, his voice light but laced with amusement. He’s still sitting where she left him, leaning back comfortably against the sofa’s armrest.

His eyes glint with mischief as he holds his now-empty mug in one hand. “I was hoping you’d be able to sit through the movie without passing out this time, but I guess not.”

Ellen glances down and notices the blanket now draped snugly over her shoulders, the same one Wise had been wrapped in earlier. The soft plaid fabric carries a faint trace of warmth, and the realization makes her cheeks flush slightly.

She quickly looks away, avoiding Wise’s amused gaze. “...It’s not my fault your sofa is so comfy,” she mutters, her voice barely above a grumble as she tightens the blanket around herself.

Wise chuckles, the sound low and easy as he leans forward to set his empty mug on the table. “You always blame the sofa,” he says, shaking his head with a faint smile. “Maybe it’s just you.”

Ellen huffs softly, though the corner of her lips twitch upward despite herself. She pulls the blanket higher over her face, muttering something incoherent as Wise laughs quietly beside her.

“Come on, Belle just closed up shop,” Wise says, stretching slightly as he gets up from the sofa. He tosses the blanket aside, running a hand through his messy silver hair as he glances back at Ellen.

“Let’s grab some dinner, yeah?” His tone is light, but there’s a subtle warmth to his words.

Ellen nods, still clutching the edge of the blanket draped around her shoulders. She hesitates for a moment before pulling it off and folding it neatly, setting it on the armrest.

The cozy warmth it offered lingers, but the thought of food is enough to motivate her. She quietly follows Wise toward the door, the faint hum of the retro TV still buzzing softly behind them as they leave.

Outside, the crisp winter air greets them, sharp and cold against Ellen’s skin. The snow beneath their boots crunches softly as they make their way toward the car, the faint glow of streetlights reflecting off the icy surface of the road.

Belle is already in the driver’s seat, drumming her fingers on the steering wheel as she hums a cheerful tune to herself. When she spots them approaching, she grins and waves. “Finally! Thought you two were gonna take forever,” she teases.

Wise opens the back door and slides into the seat, patting the spot next to him. Ellen pauses for a moment before following, her shark tail flicking slightly as she settles beside him.

“Awww, I gotta sit up front alone?” Belle pouts, glancing over her shoulder at them with exaggerated disappointment.

“Fine, whatever,” she huffs, turning the key in the ignition. The engine hums to life, and soon the car glides onto the quiet streets, the headlights cutting through the soft haze of falling snow.

Belle keeps up her playful grumbling as she drives, occasionally casting dramatic glances at the empty passenger seat.

The car glides through the quiet streets, the faint sound of the heater humming in the background as the world outside blurs past in streaks of white and gold.

Before long, Belle turns into a small lot near Victoria Housekeeping Co.’s office building and parks neatly between two snow-dusted cars.

The three step out into the chilly night, the cold biting at their cheeks as they make their way toward the office building.

Snow crunches softly beneath their boots, the warm light spilling from the building’s windows casting faint shadows across the ground.

Wise knocks on the door, his gloved hand tapping out a polite rhythm against the wood.

A moment later, it swings open to reveal Lycaon, his tall frame filling the doorway. The white-furred wolf Thiren greets them with a composed but welcoming smile, his eyes flicking between the siblings.

“Ah, pleased to see you, Master Proxies,” Lycaon says, his voice deep but carrying a calm warmth. He steps aside, gesturing for them to come in.

“Welcome back, Ellen,” Lycaon continues, his tone softening slightly as his gaze shifts to her. “Please, come in and take a seat. Dinner will be served shortly.”

The trio steps inside, the warmth of the building wrapping around them like a comforting blanket after the cold.

The faint scent of roasted meat and spices wafts through the air, mingling with the gentle hum of conversation from deeper within. Ellen nods politely, her shark tail swaying slightly behind her as she offers a quiet “Thank you.”

Belle and Wise echo her thanks as they follow Lycaon into the main hall, the sound of their footsteps muffled against the polished wooden floor.

The dining room buzzes with warmth and laughter as everyone gathers around the long table. 

The golden glow of the overhead chandelier bathes the space in a cozy light, reflecting off the polished plates and steaming dishes.

The air is filled with the savory aroma of roasted meats, spiced vegetables, and freshly baked bread, mingling with the faint hum of cheerful chatter.

Ellen sits quietly among the group, a small, genuine smile softening her usually composed expression.

Around her, hands reach across the table to pass bowls and platters, everyone sharing food and helping one another without hesitation.

Yet, despite the lively atmosphere, there’s one dish that remains untouched… a dubious-looking casserole prepared by Rina.

It sits awkwardly at the edge of the table, its odd greenish hue and slightly burnt edges deterring even the bravest diners. Ellen suppresses a chuckle as she notices everyone silently, almost instinctively, avoiding it.

Though the room is alive with conversation and clinking silverware, Ellen finds her attention drawn to the person sitting beside her… Wise.

Her gaze lingers on him more than she realizes, watching as he quietly leans forward to refill Belle’s glass or nods politely at something Lycaon says.

His silver hair catches the soft light, strands falling loosely across his forehead, and the corners of his mouth twitch upward in a faint but contented smile.

Ellen can’t quite pinpoint why her focus keeps drifting to him. Maybe it’s the casual ease in his movements or the way his voice blends warmly into the hum of the group, but whatever it is, it holds her attention far more than the meal in front of her.

As the plates begin to empty and the conversation shifts to light laughter, the time to clear the table arrives.

Ellen hesitates for a moment, her fingers brushing lightly against the edge of her plate before she reaches over and tugs gently at Wise’s sleeve.

He turns toward her, his silver eyebrows lifting slightly in curiosity. “What’s up?” he asks, his voice quiet but attentive as his head tilts just enough to show he’s fully focused on her.

“Can you come with me for a minute?” Ellen asks, her voice soft but firm enough to catch Wise’s attention.

He glances toward the rest of the group, who are busy chatting and gathering dishes, before nodding. “Sure,” he replies easily, setting his napkin down on the table.

Ellen doesn’t wait for further confirmation. She lightly grabs his arm, her fingers brushing against the fabric of his sleeve, and gives a small tug.

“Come on,” she mutters, her shark tail flicking nervously behind her as she leads him toward the stairs. The faint clatter of plates and laughter fades behind them as they ascend.

They step into Ellen’s room, the quiet space a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere downstairs. The room is neat, there’s a small shelf lined with a few books and a collection of trinkets, and a soft lamp on the nightstand casts a warm glow.

Wise’s sharp eyes scan the space briefly, his gaze pausing on one particular item draped neatly over the back of a chair, one of his jackets.

He raises an eyebrow, a teasing smirk tugging at his lips. “Oh, hey,” he says, nodding toward it. “You actually wear my jacket? And wow, it’s in pristine condition too. I’m impressed.”

His tone is light, but there’s a playful edge to it that makes Ellen’s cheeks flush faintly. She folds her arms, glancing away. “Of course I wear it…” she mutters under her breath, trying to ignore the slight warmth creeping up her face.

Ellen’s gaze flickers toward the plastic bag sitting on her desk, the one holding the gift she’d bought with Ruby.

Her fingers twitch slightly at her sides as she debates for a moment, chewing on the inside of her cheek. Finally, she lets out a soft sigh and reaches for the bag, her hands brushing over the crinkling plastic as she pulls it toward her.

Behind her, Wise is still casually inspecting her room, his eyes scanning over the small bookshelf and the neatly arranged trinkets on the windowsill.

He picks up a small glass ornament, turning it over in his hands as if trying to understand its significance.

Ellen takes a steadying breath, gripping the gift tightly as she crosses the room. The faint hum of the heater fills the silence as she stops just behind him, raising a hand to lightly tap his shoulder.

When he turns around, she thrusts the present in front of her without a word, her sharp eyes darting to the side as she avoids his gaze.

Wise blinks in surprise when he turns, his eyes widening slightly as they land on the neatly wrapped gift Ellen is holding out.

For a moment, he seems caught off guard, but the hesitation quickly melts into a familiar grin. He tilts his head, his hair falling lightly across his forehead, and raises an eyebrow.

“This for me?” he asks, his voice light and teasing, though there’s a genuine curiosity in his tone.

“...Yes,” Ellen mutters, her voice barely above a whisper as her eyes stubbornly fix on the floor. Her fingers tighten slightly around the gift as if bracing herself for his reaction.

Wise’s grin widens, his amusement evident as he crosses his arms. “Aww, you shouldn’t have,” he says, leaning slightly closer to her.

“Although…” He pauses, rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish smile. “I feel kinda bad… I don’t have anything for you.” His tone is casual, but there’s a sincerity in his words that makes her stomach flutter.

“Just take it,” Ellen mutters, thrusting the gift a little closer to him. Her tail flicks anxiously behind her, a telltale sign of her nerves, though she tries to appear indifferent.

Wise chuckles, shifting his weight as he places a hand on his hip. “At least look at me when you’re giving me something,” he teases, his eyes glinting with mischief.

The gentle warmth in his voice makes it clear he’s not trying to embarrass her, just having a little fun at her expense.

Ellen lets out a low groan under her breath, the sound more resigned than annoyed, as she slowly turns her head toward Wise. Her sharp eyes meet his for the briefest of moments before darting away again, her cheeks flushed a faint pink.

“There we go,” Wise says with a satisfied grin, taking the gift from her hands. “That’s a much more pleasant view,” he teases, his tone playful but warm.

He inspects the neatly wrapped present for a moment, turning it over in his hands before glancing back at her with a softer smile. “Thanks, Ellen. Really.”

Ellen’s face flushes an even deeper shade of red, the warmth crawling up her neck and to the tips of her ears as she quickly turns her head away again.

Wise chuckles softly, the sound low and amused, as he casually walks over to her bed. The mattress dips slightly under his weight as he sits down, stretching out one leg and leaning back on his hands.

With an easy grin, he pats the spot beside him, the gesture calm but inviting. “Come on, sit down,” he says, his tone light but teasing.

Ellen hesitates for a brief moment, her shark tail flicking behind her in an anxious rhythm. With a quiet sigh, she shuffles toward the bed, her steps slow and uncertain.

The edge of the mattress feels soft beneath her as she lowers herself to sit beside Wise, keeping a small but noticeable distance between them.

Wise doesn’t seem to notice, or maybe he pretends not to. Reaching into the plastic bag, he pulls out the carefully wrapped gift, turning it over in his hands with a curious smile.

His fingers work delicately to tug at the tape holding the folds in place, the faint sound of peeling adhesive breaking the silence. The paper crinkles softly as he pulls it apart, revealing the contents beneath.

Wise pulls away the last piece of wrapping paper, his eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity before widening with realization. In his hands is a LEGO building kit, the kind designed to create a cute, cartoonish shark once completed.

“Pfft-” A chuckle escapes his lips, the sound sudden and genuine, as he tilts the box slightly to take in the playful design. “A LEGO shark? Really?” he asks, glancing over at Ellen with a lopsided grin. “Didn’t think I’d get such a cheesy gift from you.”

Ellen’s cheeks burn brighter, the heat spreading down to her neck as she hunches her shoulders slightly.

She keeps her gaze firmly fixed on the floor, wishing she could disappear into it. “... It’s not that cheesy,” she mutters defensively, though her voice comes out quieter than she’d like.

Wise chuckles again, placing the box carefully back into the bag with a fond smile.

“I’ll be sure to build it and put it on my display shelf,” Wise says, his voice warm with sincerity but laced with a playful undertone.

The comment makes Ellen flinch, her shark tail flicking in a quick, startled motion behind her. She glances at him, her eyes wide with embarrassment.

“...Y-you don’t have to…” she stammers, her voice barely audible as she shrinks slightly in her seat. Her hands clench the fabric of her jeans, desperate to ground herself in something other than the overwhelming heat in her cheeks.

“Oh, no, but I must, ” Wise replies, his voice dramatic as he places a hand over his chest in mock seriousness.

“A gift like this deserves to be cherished for the rest of my life. It’s practically a family heirloom already.” His eyes gleam with amusement, though the warmth in his tone never wavers.

Ellen lets out a small, frustrated groan, her embarrassment bubbling over as she throws caution to the wind.

Without thinking, she leans forward and plants her forehead firmly against Wise’s chest, the soft fabric of his sweater brushing against her skin.

Wise freezes for a moment, his grin faltering as he glances down at her. “Whoa, hey-” he begins, though his voice softens almost immediately. His free hand hovers awkwardly for a moment before settling lightly on her shoulder.

Ellen squeezes her eyes shut, her voice muffled as she mutters, “Stop making it such a big deal…”

Wise’s smile returns, softer this time, as he chuckles quietly. “Alright, alright. I’ll stop teasing… for now.”

“It’s pretty late,” Wise says, his voice low but teasing as he glances down at the girl resting against him. A playful grin tugs at his lips as he lifts a finger and gently pokes Ellen’s cheek. “I’m honestly surprised you haven’t fallen asleep yet.”

Ellen scrunches her nose slightly at the poke, her cheek faintly warm beneath his touch. The room is quiet save for the faint hum of the heater in the corner, and the soft glow of the lamp casts long, cozy shadows on the walls around them.

“I don’t need no sleep when you’re around…” Ellen mutters softly, her voice slightly muffled against Wise’s chest. The words come out quietly, almost hesitant as if admitting them makes her feel too exposed.

Wise raises an eyebrow, his teasing smile widening as he tilts his head down to look at her. “Oh, really? Because the way you passed out during the movie tells a different story,” he counters, his tone light but brimming with amusement.

Ellen’s tail gives a small flick behind her in annoyance, but she doesn’t move from where her head rests against him.

“Shut up… I was having a moment,” Ellen grumbles, her voice laced with irritation but lacking any real bite.

Her arms tighten around Wise’s torso as if to keep him from escaping, and she burrows her head deeper against his chest, hoping to muffle her embarrassment.

Wise chuckles softly, the deep, soothing sound vibrating through her ear where it rests against him. For a moment, there’s nothing but the comforting rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her.

“… When you’re with me,” Ellen murmurs, her voice barely audible now, “I’m already dreaming.”

Wise’s grin softens at her words, his teasing tone giving way to something warmer, though he can’t help but shake his head slightly at her cheesiness.

“You’re being so cheesy tonight,” Wise says with a soft chuckle, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Not that I mind, though,” he adds, his voice dropping slightly as his hand lifts to stroke her hair.

His fingers slide gently through the strands, his touch light and deliberate. Ellen tenses for a brief second, the simple gesture sending a faint warmth blooming across her face, but she quickly relaxes into the motion.

“Come on,” Wise says gently, his hand still resting against the back of her head. His tone is softer now, as if he’s reluctant to break the moment but knows they can’t stay like this forever. “Let’s join the others before it’s time to go.”

Ellen nods wordlessly, her head still pressed against his chest for a moment longer. Her arms loosen their grip around him, though she doesn’t fully let go, as if trying to draw out the last few seconds of quiet comfort.

Wise shifts slightly, pulling himself up from the bed with an easy motion. He glances down at Ellen and extends a hand toward her, his palm open and inviting.

Ellen hesitates for just a moment before reaching out, her smaller hand sliding into his. His grip is firm but gentle, the warmth of his skin sending a faint tingle through her fingers.

With a gentle tug, Wise pulls her up to her feet, their hands still linked even after she’s standing.

He doesn’t let go, and Ellen doesn’t pull away. The realization sends a faint rush of heat to her cheeks, her blush deepening as they start toward the stairs.

The soft creak of the wooden steps underfoot mingles with the distant sound of laughter from downstairs, but neither of them speaks.

They both wear quiet, contented smiles, the kind that linger long after the moment has passed.