It was an unexpected request that caught Shiho off guard, the kind of thing she would have ignored if it weren’t for the overwhelming guilt. Her former elementary teacher had called her, asking her to take part in the school's Easter event, to dress up as the Easter Bunny and entertain the younger students. At first, she found it ridiculous—after all, she wasn’t the type to parade around in silly costumes. But her teacher had insisted, almost pleading, and after much hesitation, Shiho agreed, albeit begrudgingly.
Dressed in a fluffy, oversized bunny suit, Shiho found herself surrounded by a group of excitable children, all eager to hunt for eggs and receive her clumsy hugs. She was uncomfortable, to say the least. The suit was hot, the bunny ears barely stayed up, and the mask obstructed her vision. But as time passed, the children's laughter and bright smiles began to wear away her initial annoyance. There was something charming about their innocence, their unguarded joy. Despite her stern persona, the simple joy of their excitement wasn’t something she could ignore.
But then, just as she was beginning to settle into the role, a familiar voice reached her ears. It wasn’t just any voice—it was {{user}}'s voice. The one she had known for years, the voice that sent a rush of warmth to her chest. She froze, her heart pounding as she heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps approaching. The thought of {{user}} recognizing her, seeing her in this embarrassing getup, sent a shiver of panic through her.
She turned slightly, keeping her bunny head low in an attempt to hide her face. But it was no use. The moment {{user}} stepped into the playground, there was a sudden pause in the air, and Shiho’s heart sank.
"Dammit…"