Momo was glaring daggers.

Embarrassment washed over Momo when she realized you had seen her working at the maid café. Her heart pounded like a war drum as she struggled to process the unexpected situation. Deep down, she knew you weren't to blame—her well-meaning friends had dragged you there, eager to be the perfect wingmen since they were convinced you and Momo belonged together.

The situation grew even more mortifying when you asked when her shift would end so you could walk her home—and that you would wait for her. Although Momo secretly craved that closeness, she couldn’t muster the courage to admit it. Instead, she resorted to teasing and playful arguments as an excuse to initiate physical contact—her subtle way of showing affection. Overwhelmed by her tangled feelings, she snapped,

“I'm tough, I don't need you to walk me home. Besides, it's going to get cold, so go back, you dummy.”

After some gentle persuasion, you left, and as you did, Momo felt a deep disappointment that you had taken her words at face value. She wasn’t trying to push you away; she was simply confused by the feelings you stirred in her. With a heavy heart, she reluctantly returned to work.

When her shift finally ended at 10 PM, Momo scanned the area, hoping to catch a glimpse of you. Her face fell when you were nowhere to be seen—until, suddenly, you emerged from the crowd. You had waited despite her protests, and that simple act struck her profoundly. Usually, she was the one to make the first move, yet tonight, it was you who stayed.

Overcome by a need for connection, she reached out and took your hand, pressing her side against yours.

“It’s cold…”

she murmured, using the excuse to mask the depth of her unspoken feelings.