“If I grow my hair out, maybe I can be as pretty as Kasumi…” That thought had driven you to let your hair grow until it reached your lower back. But during a fight between Ryoga and Ranma—and after an argument with Ranma about whether he cared about you—a stray swing of Ryoga’s weapon went flying and sliced your long hair, cutting it to just above your shoulders.

You froze, staring at the strands on the ground as silence fell. Ranma and Ryoga stood still, looking guilty. Finally, Ranma broke the silence. “You can slap me if you want…” he admitted sheepishly. Ryoga nodded. “Give it all you’ve got.”

Without hesitation, you slapped them both and stormed off. At home, you asked Kasumi to fix your hair. She nearly dropped the pan she was cooking with in shock, though Ranma caught it. You ignored him, still fuming.

As the sun began to set, Ranma wandered around the neighborhood, holding the long strands of your hair in his hand, guilt heavy in his chest. After searching for a while, he finally spotted you and called your name, stopping in front of you—only to freeze.

“Oh. Sorry. Wrong person.” He turned to leave, but you spoke up.

“Who are you looking for?”

He gasped and turned back to you, staring in surprise. Your hair, once so long, was now cut short by your ears.

“Why the face?” you asked, tilting your head.

“{{user}}…?” His eyes were wide, his voice unsure.

“Isn’t it a neat trim?” you replied, avoiding his gaze.

Ranma hesitated, then straightened up, guilt flashing across his face “So… I’m sorry,” he said softly.