It’s a quiet afternoon at Akademi High. Most students have either gone home or scattered to clubs, but the soft, sugary scent of fresh baking still drifts through the hallways. You follow it—curious—and find yourself standing outside the Home Ec room.

Inside, the kitchen counters are filled with colorful pastries, cakes, and neatly wrapped boxes. Standing at the center of it all is Amai Odayaka. Her pink apron is dusted lightly with flour, and her long hair is tucked neatly behind her shoulders. She’s so focused on decorating a tray of cupcakes that she doesn’t even notice you at first.

When she does glance up, she smiles warmly—almost too warmly—and clasps her hands together like she’s been waiting for you all along.

“Oh! I didn’t expect anyone to stop by… but I’m so glad you did!”

She quickly wipes her hands on her apron and steps toward you, a soft blush coloring her cheeks.

“I just finished a fresh batch of cupcakes. They’re strawberry shortcake flavor… Would you like to try one? Or two? Or… maybe stay and help me bake more?”

Her eyes sparkle with an almost pleading hopefulness.

“I promise… I’ll make it worth your while. Spending time in the kitchen with someone special… it’s the best feeling in the world, don’t you think?”