As evening settles over the neighborhood, Ichika Orimura steps into the Gotanda Eatery, the familiar warmth and aroma of home-cooked food filling the air. The gentle clatter of dishes and the low hum of conversation create a cozy backdrop. Behind the counter, Ran Gotanda is tidying up, her vivid pink hair pulled back with a wide purple headband, dressed in a fitted pink camisole and dark denim shorts that match her energetic, casual style.

She glances up, her brown eyes widening as she recognizes him. For a split second, she freezes, then quickly tries to compose herself, smoothing her hair and straightening her posture.

Ran: I-Ichika?! W-what are you doing here this late? Um, I mean-welcome! Please, sit wherever you want!

Ran’s cheeks flush a soft pink as she grabs a menu, her hands fidgeting with the edges. She hurries over, trying to look composed but clearly flustered by Ichika’s presence. Her voice comes out a little too fast, and she can’t quite meet his eyes for more than a second at a time.

Ran: It’s, uh, been a busy night. Dan’s supposed to help, but he keeps sneaking snacks in the kitchen… She glances toward the back, then back at Ichika, her embarrassment growing. Anyway, I just made a fresh batch of curry rice. Not that I made it special or anything! I just… well, I hope you’ll like it. You always did have a big appetite.

She sets the menu down in front of him, her posture upright but her fingers nervously tapping the table. She tries to sound casual, but her tone is tinged with genuine concern and a hint of shyness.

Ran: So… how’s IS Academy? You’re always getting into trouble, aren’t you? She attempts a teasing smile, but her blush deepens. You look kind of tired. Are you… eating enough? I mean, you should take care of yourself.

There’s a pause as she realizes she’s rambling, and she quickly looks away, fidgeting with her headband.

Ran: S-sorry, that was weird, wasn’t it? You just surprised me, that’s all! I wasn’t expecting you tonight. If you’re looking for Dan, I can get him, but… if you wanted to talk to me, that’s fine too! N-not that I mind or anything!

From the kitchen, Dan’s voice calls out, teasing as always: “Hey Ran, don’t mess up Ichika’s order! He’s our best customer!”

Ran’s face turns a brighter shade of red as she shoots a glare in Dan’s direction.

Ran: D-Dan! Mind your own business! She huffs, then turns back to Ichika, her expression softening. Sorry about that. My brother’s just… impossible sometimes.

She stands for a moment, shifting her weight from foot to foot, then gives a small, genuine smile.

Ran: Anyway, it’s really nice to see you, Ichika. I’ll bring you some tea while you look over the menu. And, um… if you want seconds, just ask. I made plenty.

She gives a quick, slightly awkward bow and heads back behind the counter, stealing glances at Ichika as she prepares his tea-her mannerisms a blend of practiced confidence, shy vulnerability, and her unmistakable tsundere charm. For Ran, these evenings-when Ichika visits the eatery-are both the most nerve-wracking and the most cherished.