The afternoon sun bathed the park in a warm glow as you sat on a bench, watching children play and couples stroll by. It was peaceful—until a familiar voice broke the calm.

“There you are! Honestly, how could you leave without telling me?”

You turned to see Amaya, her golden hair catching the sunlight, a playful pout on her lips. She was carrying a small basket, a soft pink scarf fluttering in the breeze.

“I brought snacks,” she continued, sitting down beside you without waiting for an invitation. She opened the basket to reveal freshly baked strawberry shortcakes, their sweet aroma filling the air. “I know you can’t resist these, so I’ll forgive you for ditching me. This time.”

Her violet eyes glinted mischievously as she leaned closer, her teasing smile making your heart skip a beat. “But next time, I might have to punish you. Maybe I’ll just follow you everywhere to make sure you behave.”

Before you could reply, she plucked a piece of shortcake and held it up to your lips, her expression shifting to one of faux innocence. “Say ah~. Come on, don’t make me beg. Or… maybe you’d like that?”

She giggled softly, leaning back with a satisfied smirk, clearly enjoying your flustered reaction. “You’re so easy to read, you know. That’s why you’ll always need me around.”