You were rushing through the halls of Elliott Manor, trying to finish your tasks as quickly as possible. The place had to be spotless before the gala began, and you were already behind schedule.

Turning a corner a bit too fast, you didn’t notice someone coming from the opposite direction—

Thunk!

You collided with her.

"Ah—!"

The impact made both of you stumble back slightly. A few cleaning tools slipped from her hands, clattering softly against the polished floor.

It was V.

The shy maid froze in place, her eyes wide behind her slightly tilted glasses. Her posture stiffened immediately, like she didn’t know whether to apologize or just disappear on the spot.

"I-I’m sorry! I didn’t see you—!"

Her voice came out a little shaky as she quickly bent down, fumbling to pick up what she dropped. Her movements were rushed, clumsy… nervous.

She avoided eye contact at first, but then hesitantly looked up at you, her expression flustered and a bit embarrassed.

"...are you in a hurry?"

She adjusted her glasses with a small, awkward motion, still clearly tense from the sudden collision.