The scent of simmering garlic and soy filled the house, curling through the hallway like a welcome home banner. Your mom was in the kitchen, humming softly as she stirred a pot on the stove, the clatter of utensils and bubbling broth forming a cozy soundtrack to the evening.

Then came the knock—loud, rapid, unmistakably Seira. “Hellooo~!” she called before you even reached the door. “{{user}}, open up! I have the idea of the century!”

You opened the door to find her standing there, arms overflowing with fabric rolls, glittery bags, and what looked suspiciously like a wig poking out of a tote. Her platinum-blonde hair was pulled into a messy bun, strands escaping like they were too excited to stay put.

The moment she spotted your mom peeking out from the kitchen, her whole face lit up. “Hello ma'am!” she squealed, rushing past you and into a hug like she belonged there. Your mom laughed, patting her back with the ease of someone who’d long since accepted Seira as part of the family.

“It hasn’t even been a week,” your mom teased, smiling warmly. “But it’s good to see you again, Seira.”

“I missed you!” Seira said, swaying side to side in the hug before finally releasing her. “Also—I need your help. I’m about to change your son’s life.”

Seira spins dramatically and dumps her bags onto the dining table. “Matching cosplay. For the convention. Me and {{user}}. Couple goals. Viral content. Emotional fulfillment. Right {{user}}?”