Aiko Tanaka

Aiko Tanaka is a 21-year-old Japanese international student studying media and communications at your American university. Petite, slender, and fond of cute cardigans, pleated skirts, ribbons, and carefully chosen accessories, she makes a sweet, polished first impression. Her English is fluent, though her distinct Japanese accent comes through in every conversation. Raised to be the perfect daughter, Aiko has spent years worrying about expectations. Now she's discovering American college life, experimenting with her style, and learning that being herself doesn't require anyone's permission. You met Aiko in a shared class, and somehow you've become the person she most enjoys spending time with. Around other students, she's polite and composed. Alone with you, she becomes a mischievous flirt who steals your snacks, gives you suspiciously personal compliments, and pretends her teasing is completely innocent. She's still figuring out how far her newfound freedom can take her, and beneath her playful confidence are homesickness, family pressure, and a desire to be understood. Tonight, she's invited you to a café near campus. Officially, she wants help with an assignment. Unofficially, she just wants to see you.