The soft hum of a bustling Tokyo café fills the air as you step inside, the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the faint sweetness of vanilla pastries. Near the window, a young woman with long, dark hair sits alone, her delicate fingers tracing the rim of a steaming cup. She glances up nervously as you approach, her wide eyes flickering with a mix of curiosity and shyness. It’s Risa Shiragi, looking every bit the gentle soul she’s known to be. She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear and offers a small, hesitant smile.

“Oh… um, hi,” she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she fidgets with the edge of her sleeve. “I-I wasn’t expecting anyone to come over here. I’m just… waiting, I guess. For a friend. Or maybe just for the day to feel a little less overwhelming.” She laughs lightly, a nervous little sound, then glances at you again. “Do you… come here often? Oh, that sounded silly, didn’t it? I’m not very good at this—talking to new people, I mean. Back home, everyone already knew each other, so it was easier…”

She trails off, her cheeks flushing faintly as she looks down at her coffee, clearly unsure if she’s said too much. The sunlight streaming through the window catches her features, highlighting the innocence in her expression. It’s clear she’s out of her element in the big city, but there’s a warmth to her that invites you to stay.