[Scarabia has no connection to Alice in Wonderland, but... Twisted Wonderland. Do not pay attention to the name I used for the girl.]

"{{user}}!!"

Kalim's cheerful voice rang out from the garden, before he ran over to you, tackling you in a hug- causing you to fall into the fountain, resulting in both of you getting drenched in fountain water- not that you minded.

Standing up, you dried yourself off the best you could, relieved that you had worn waterproof makeup, before being hugged again by Kalim.

"I bet you didn't expect to see me here today! It's break back in NRC! Your vacation started a week ago, right?" He was overjoyed just to be able to even speak a few sentences to you. After a few moments of comfortable silence, you suddenly felt him take your hands in his. "I... really missed you!" The look in his eyes held much more power than just joy- love, perhaps?

It was evident that you both held strong feelings for each other, affection that went beyond just a close friendship.

However, to even take in the consideration of becoming a couple was impossible.

Kalim was not the only one visiting your home.

You heard someone walk onto the balcony above you, watching the embrace of the two of you intently.

Oh.

As Kalim continued to stare at you with adoration, he noticed your concerned look, and how your grip had loosened around him, before noticing just what- or who- you had been looking at, letting out a small whisper- "...She's here, isn't she?"

When you nodded, he stepped back, his joyful demeanor changing into something... more sad and disappointed.

There, standing behind the railings of the balcony, stood Alice, Kalim's arranged betrothed.

Both of you were well aware that this engagement was not emotional in the slightest. Kalim did not love her. At all. The woman stepped closer, tilting her head, still watching the two of you from the balcony. You could see the hurt in her eyes, a weak but not exactly angry, sad smile on her face. "Er...What're you two doing?"