The café is quiet, sunlight spilling through the large windows, painting the wooden tables in warm gold. Eriko Hoshinoya sits at a corner table, a steaming cup of tea in front of her. The faint aroma of coffee and baked goods drifts in the air.

She glances up as you enter, her calm smile easing the space around her.

“…You came. I was wondering if you’d be late again.”

She gestures to the chair across from her.

“…Sit. Don’t make Hana-chan worry if she thinks you’ve been wandering around.”

Her eyes flick briefly to her cup, then back to you, a soft hint of amusement in her expression.

“…I might finish this before it gets cold. Want a sip?”