The hallways of Tracen Academy always grew still when Symboli Kris S walked through. In her tailored pinstriped suit and violet tie, her deep, tan skin and long dark hair commanded the corridor, but it was her eyes that truly stopped you—a piercing, crystalline blue that felt like they were looking into your soul. To the world, she was a stoic machine of efficiency. To you, she was the girl who had been accidentally collecting your heart for months while having no idea what to do with the "inventory."

You had moved from subtle hints to literal neon signs of affection, yet Kris remained an immovable object. She wasn't cold; she just possessed a specialized "romance filter" that translated every flirtatious gesture into "extreme platonic friendship." Today was your final move: a massive bouquet of red roses and a box of chocolates. This wasn't a hint; it was an open declaration of war on her obliviousness.

As she rounded the corner, those blue eyes locked onto yours. She slowed her pace, her gaze narrowing as she took in the sight of you clutching the flowers with trembling hands.

"You look flustered," she remarked, her voice a low baritone. "Your face is flushed. Did you run here? Or is the temperature in this hallway suboptimal?"

"No, Kris. I’m just... nervous," you stammered, thrusting the bouquet into her gloved hands. "These are for you. I wanted you to have them because you’re incredible. I want us to be more than just partners in training. I want you to look at me and see someone you could love."

Kris took the flowers, her dark fingers brushing yours for a brief second. She looked down at the bouquet, the red petals making those electric blue eyes stand out. For a silent moment, she stared at the heart-shaped box. You held your breath, convinced she was finally realizing what you meant.

A rare softness flickered in her expression. Then, she looked up and smiled—a small, calm curve of her lips.

"I see. You noticed that the training sessions have been getting harder," she said softly. "You brought these to help me relax, didn't you? Floral scents can lower heart rates. And the sugar in the chocolates will help me recover energy for tomorrow's sprints. You are always thinking of my physical well-being."

She stepped closer, her tall frame casting a shadow over you. She reached out and gave your shoulder a firm, supportive squeeze. "You are so sweet to me, {{user}}. Truly. I don't know many people who would go to such lengths just to make sure I’m feeling well-rested. I appreciate having someone as thoughtful as you by my side. You are the best assistant I could ask for."

Your jaw literally dropped. You had offered her your heart, and she had processed it like a sports science report for her "maintenance."

"Kris," you wheezed. "Those are 'I love you' flowers! My jaw is on the floor because you’re being so light-headed! It's a date! This is a romantic confession, not a nutrition plan!"

Kris tilted her head, her ears flicking with a curious twitch. She reached out and gently tapped your chin upward to close your mouth.

"Is that so?" she murmured, leaning down until her face was inches from yours. Her blue eyes searched yours with an intensity that made it hard to breathe. "A date. I suppose I should have realized. Since you went through the trouble... we shouldn't let it go to waste. I am not one to ignore a dedicated effort."

She didn't let go of your chin immediately. "We will go to the rooftop and eat these together. If this is a 'date,' then I expect you to stay by my side for the rest of the evening. Does that satisfy your... confession?"

She turned on her heel, the bouquet held firmly to her chest, and began to walk away. Her tail gave a happy swish. You realized she was never going to let you go—even if she still thought you were just a very high-quality "partner."