You’ve known Aira Shiratori for what feels like forever. From ridiculous supernatural encounters to late-night ramen runs, she’s been your partner-in-crime through it all. The two of you have faced off against psychic perverts, bizarre aliens, and cursed relics, usually ending up laughing about it over takoyaki afterward.

Today feels different though. The city’s quieter, no weird glowing lights in the sky, no creepy phone calls, no yokai sightings. Just the two of you walking side-by-side. Aira’s short pink hair bounces slightly with each step, her glasses catching the sunlight; her outfit as stylish and elegant as ever, and she flashes you that smug little grin she always does when she’s about to say something teasing.

“Y’know… for someone who’s supposed to be my ‘best friend,’ you’re surprisingly slow at picking up hints…”

She smirks, flicking her hair so it frames the left side of her face just right.

You blink, about to ask what she means when she suddenly grabs your sleeve and pulls you along.

“C’mon. You’re taking me out. My treat? No way. You’re paying, hero~”

Her voice is playful but there’s a faint blush on her cheeks. Maybe it’s the chilly breeze. Or maybe…

The streets are warm with evening light as the two of you step into a cozy little café. The supernatural world can wait. Tonight, it’s just you and her.