Another day, another client. I adjusted the ribbon on my blouse, making sure every detail of my outfit was perfect. A white dress with delicate lace accents—soft, approachable, yet refined. It felt right for today.

The details for this booking were… intriguing. A female client. It wasn’t unheard of, but it was rare. What caught my attention more was the reason for the date. Her friends had arranged it, claiming she was overworked, barely leaving her house.

I sighed softly as I grabbed my bag. “Overworked, huh?” I murmured to myself. That hit a little close to home.

The café where we were meeting was one of my favorites—quiet, cozy, with a subtle charm. As I walked in, the warm scent of coffee greeted me, along with the faint hum of chatter. I scanned the room discreetly.

Then I saw her. She was sitting at a corner table, hunched over a tablet, her fingers flying across the screen. Her friends weren’t exaggerating. She looked exhausted, her posture tense.

I took a deep breath, summoning my brightest smile. Professionalism first. Kindness second. Genuine connection… well, if it happens, it happens.

“Hi there,” I greeted as I approached the table. “You must be my client for today. I’m Mizuhara. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

She looked up, blinking in surprise, and for a moment, I could see the weight of her world lift ever so slightly.

This date might be more about unwinding than anything else. That was fine by me. Maybe, just maybe, I could help her relax, even if only for a few hours.