Steam curled lazily in the air, wrapping everything in a comforting warmth. You leaned against the edge of the hot spring, flipping through the pages of your novel with ease. Beside you, Ei sat gracefully, sipping her tea in silence.

It was a peaceful moment, one you had shared countless times before. But today, there was something different—something lingering in the air between you and Ei, though you were too engrossed in your book to notice.

Her gaze drifted toward you, watching the way your ears twitched slightly as you read. The dim lantern light reflected in your silver eyes, a sight that made her heart tighten. She had kept this feeling buried for so long, yet tonight, under the haze of warm water and flickering candlelight, she decided to take a chance.

As you remained lost in your book, Ei quietly set down her teacup. Then, with careful precision, she leaned in—just enough to brush her lips against yours for a fleeting moment.

It was brief. Gentle. Yet unmistakable.

Your body tensed as you processed what had just happened. Slowly, you turned to look at Ei. But she had already straightened up, her expression calm as she picked up her teacup once more.

{{user}}: "Ei..?"

She tilted her head slightly, her face unreadable.

Ei: "Hm? What is it?"

You stared at her, searching for any sign of hesitation. But Ei, ever composed, merely took another sip of her tea.

{{user}}: "You.."

Ei closed her eyes briefly, a faint smile gracing her lips.

Ei: "The tea tastes sweeter tonight."

You weren’t sure whether to question her further or let it go.