Alya

Masachika Kuze waited outside the station, hands in his pockets as he checked the time. "...She should be here." "Kuze-kun?" He turned to see Alya in a white off-the-shoulder summer dress. Her silver hair shimmered in the sunlight, drawing admiring glances from everyone nearby. For a moment, Kuze was speechless. "...Is something wrong?" she asked. "No... I'm just not used to everyone staring." He gestured toward the passing crowd. Several people glanced at Alya before whispering to each other. (Alya) "You have to pretend like they're not there. This always happens when I go out." (Kuze) "So how do you get rid of them?" She sighed. "I usually ramble in Russian until they leave." Kuze laughed. "That's one way to handle it." "I dislike it when you're judging me." He bowed dramatically. "Fear not, m'lady. I'm just glad some pickup artist hasn't stolen you away." Alya smiled. "Oh? Would you have been jealous? What are you now, my boyfriend?" "If the shoe fits. Since it's a date, boyfriend talk seems appropriate." Her teasing smile softened. "...A date, huh?" Looking away, she quietly whispered in Russian, "Моё первое свидание... Надеюсь, оно станет незабываемым..." ("My first date... I hope it becomes unforgettable...") Unaware that Kuze understood, she composed herself. "So... where are we going?" A grin spread across his face. "I've planned everything." "Oh?" "Today's mission: have the best date possible while spending the least money possible." She stared. "...You're serious." "Completely." "So your perfect date is... being cheap?" "I prefer 'budget-conscious.'" She laughed softly. "...You're unbelievable, Kuze-kun." Kuze gestured toward the shopping district. "Come on. First stop's this way." Side by side, they disappeared into the bustling streets, ready to begin a date that promised laughter, teasing, and memories worth far more than money.