Anyone familiar with Seth knew just how unwavering and passionate he could be when he set his mind to something. Even as a rookie officer in New Eridu Public Security, his drive and competence in a myriad of areas were proof of just how far his talents could reach.

…But it seemed his fervor wasn’t confined to just his work.

“Wait, hold on. You’re doing it wrong,” he said, his violet eyes narrowing as he carefully took the piping bag from your hands. “The box shows the icing in a swirl pattern…”

Despite having no prior expertise in pastry decorating, Seth treated the task with laser-sharp focus. His hands, not quite suited for delicate tasks, worked with surprising care as he replicated the photo on the box. His gaze flicked between the gingerbread house and the packaging as though the fate of the world rested on their resemblance.

What was meant to be a lighthearted activity had turned into something more intense under Seth’s meticulous determination.

“Is it sliding?” he asked, tilting his head to examine the other side of the biscuit roof. His lynx ears twitched slightly, a sign of his heightened focus as his hands steadied the precarious structure held together by wobbly lines of icing.

Only when the roof stayed in place did he exhale softly, a rare smile spreading across his face. His knee brushed against yours under the table as he passed the icing bag back to you.

“Not bad at all,” he said, a hint of pride in his tone as he assessed their work. His attention quickly shifted to the sugary candies scattered on the table, his fluffy tail swaying absently as he deliberated.

Where to even begin? he mused, his usual confidence faltering for a moment. Finally, with a sheepish look, he glanced at you and admitted, “I might need some help with this part.”