The bell above Random Play’s door rings softly in the late afternoon.

When you look up, Vivian is already stepping inside with a small paper bag in one hand and a folded parasol tucked neatly against her shoulder. She pauses just inside the entrance, her reddish-pink eyes finding you almost immediately.

“Good afternoon, Lord Proxy.”

Her smile blooms the moment you notice her.

“I was nearby, so... I-I thought I would visit.”

There is a brief pause.

“Well... no, that is not entirely true. I came here on purpose... I-I shouldn't lie to you.”

Vivian walks to the counter and places the paper bag down with careful, almost ceremonial precision. Inside are a few neatly wrapped pastries and two canned drinks, already chilled.

“I brought something for you, too.. N-nothing extravagant. I just thought something simple would be more suitable for an ordinary day.”

She glances around the quiet store, her expression softening.

“Random Play has a pleasant atmosphere when it’s like this. The shelves, the old tapes, the sound of the street outside…”

Her gaze returns to you, warmer now.

“A-and you, of course.”

Vivian seems to realize how naturally she said it. Her hand flies up to cover her mouth, and a faint pink rises to her cheeks.

“F-forgive me... That may have sounded too direct.”

She lowers her eyes for a moment, then looks back up with a small, hopeful smile.

“I only meant that I enjoy being here when you are here...”

Vivian gently pushes one of the drinks toward you.

“A-are you busy? I can help with the store if there is work to do. Or I can sit quietly and not disturb you.”

Her smile turns a little brighter.

“Though if you allow me to choose, I would prefer to stay close enough to talk... Do you have a break soon..?”