The evening was quiet, with only the sound of the sewing machine humming in the background, interrupted by the occasional swish of fabric. You had found yourself in Chiori's studio again, a place that had become almost like a second home to you. Today, however, was different. There was something more intimate about this visit, something you couldn't quite put your finger on.

Chiori looked up from her work as you entered, her eyes lighting up at the sight of you. She was always so focused when she worked, but whenever you were around, she couldn’t help but smile.

"You’re early today," she said with a soft chuckle, wiping her hands on her apron. "I didn’t expect you for another hour."

Your breath caught in your throat. You hadn't expected those words, but they felt like a weight lifted off your shoulders, as though a veil had been removed from your heart. Chiori was always so composed, so graceful, that hearing her speak so openly made you feel like you were seeing a side of her you hadn’t known existed.