Cynthia

Did you see the news? Cynthia's dress at the international show is blowing up online!

Yeah... I heard she'll be wearing a custom-made dress to the charity gala next week. I can't wait to see her whole look...

She's so stunning... I'd kill to meet Cynthia in person!

Everyone's talking about Cynthia these days – she's everywhere...

But hey, if we're talking about who gets to meet Cynthia up close... that'd be me, right?

Alright, it's settled – tonight at Mercy Street in One Han City. Don't you dare stand me up!

Yeah, let's keep it hush-hush, unless you want to be chased around by enthusiastic fans.

...Although I've confirmed the meeting place with Cynthia, this location is surprisingly tricky to find.

This should be the place... but why do I feel like...

Good instincts, though your disguise needs work... Hehe, guess I can trust you to handle the paparazzi for me in the future?

Oh? You actually noticed me? Hehe, that expression on your face right now – are you auditioning for some kind of spy thriller?

Why don't you come to work as my assistant? It would be a shame to waste your talent. I'll even let you decide your own pay.

You'll get flexible work hours, plenty of holidays, and opportunities to travel around the world with me for photoshoots. Tempting, right?

...My, you're a tougher cookie to crack than I expected. What if I double your hourly pay? Still no? Triple, then?

You'll even get paid leave, bonuses, and other benefits. Well?

Oh? You mean if someone snaps a picture of us looking like we're on a date, and some outrageous rumors start flying around...? Well, you have nothing to worry about.

Hehe, relax. By the way, I love that face you just made.

Just follow me.

Mercy Orphanage...

Basically, I'm looking for some inspiration for my new look.

That's right. The purpose of this charity gala is to support orphanages in need of funding, so I'd prefer if my outfit that evening could reflect the theme.

But the concepts my team has come up with are all overly romantic and extravagant, making me look like some kind of princess.

I can't accept that... The gala is meant to raise funds for orphanages, not to be some fancy circus show.

So I thought I'd bring you, someone with uncorrupted taste, to search for inspiration instead of letting them waste all that fabric.

Sigh... to be honest, it isn't easy. Between my team's questionable taste and a certain rookie's fashion crimes... yeah.

...Don't move. Your collar only looks good if it's folded like this.

Okay, much better now. Let's go inside.

Sorry to keep you waiting. Both of you are checked in. You're good to go see the kids now.

Miss Cynthia... we're already so grateful that you're raising funds for us at the charity gala. For you to also make time to visit the children personally – it's truly thoughtful of you.

It's nothing. Please lead the way.

Okay, please follow me. The children are really excited about meeting you again!

...Hmm. It's getting better now.

The mold on the wall is gone, and that flickering light bulb has finally been replaced. Looks like the previous donations have been put to good use.

Hmm? Oh, yeah – well, as a model, I'm constantly navigating grown-up nonsense. Figured hanging with kids would be a nice change of pace, help keep things real. Besides, the secret to staying young is keeping a youthful heart, you know?

Oh, it's Cynthia! Cynthia is here!

Oh yeah... Cynthia... I haven't seen you in a while...

Really? But I was here just last week. How are you two? Have you been good?

Yeah! I've been brushing my teeth every day!

M-Me too... I've taken your advice... I've been eating less candy and more veggies...

Wow, that's really good. You both kept your promise to me. Well, I have a gift for you two. Here you go.

Oh! It's the crocodile toy I've always wanted! Thank you, Cynthia!

I love it... Thank you, Cynthia...

I'm glad you like it. Remember to keep your promise, okay?

Yes! I will!

Hmm... I will too... Cynthia, did you bring a friend with you...?

Yeah, this is my partner – an outstanding grown-up.

Wow! That's so cool! I want to be Cynthia's partner one day too!

Yeah... it sounds so cool to be her partner...

Pfft, that's enough. Go have fun now. And you two be good, alright?

Okay!

Not at all. They were just saying how cool you are. You better be a good example for those kids, you know?

Come on now, what makes you say that? Have I truly been that hard on you?

Hehe, it's nice to see you look so motivated.

Sigh... You might be right. I should reflect on this.

Okay, time to get down to business. I'm actually leaning toward a minimalist approach – a simple T-shirt should do the trick.

As for the style... Since this is a charity gala, I want people to focus on the children more than me... Do you have any suggestions?

Given the nature of the charity gala and that it's for children, I think you should choose something cute.

Something cute, huh...? Interesting, I haven't really tried something like that on the runway before.

After all, I'm quite tall and lean more toward a sharp, striking kind of look. Honestly, the last time I wore anything "cute" was probably before I even started modeling...

You should be fine.

Oh? You seem more confident than me. Care to tell me why?

Of course.

First, your professionalism is beyond doubt.

That you, as a model, can provide professional input to the team proves you're not a puppet just doing whatever you're told. You're someone who thinks deeply about the end result and cares about perfecting every detail.

Hmm, it sounds like you know your stuff. And?

Well, based on your interactions with the children just now, you're quite good at showing your cute side.

While that flawless, cool, and collected persona works for a superstar, kids are always drawn to a warmer, more approachable big-sister type – and luckily for you, you can flip between the two effortlessly.

Those little ones weren't the least bit afraid of you, were they? They genuinely see you as their sweet big sis. And I know you can channel that same energy on stage when you want to.

You know, I think your pep talk is actually working on me, {var:player_nickname}.

And last but not least...

Oh? What else?

I'd like to see you wearing something cute...!

...

Pfft! Hahaha–! Wow, you've really got some nerve today.

Good. A model is supposed to meet the audience's expectations – and since you're such a key part of that audience, I'm gonna have to step up my game.

Okay, now that we've decided on a plan, the real headache begins – finalizing the actual design...

Oh... the design...

Cynthia is right. Even though we've settled on a cute style, figuring out the specific look and then choosing the actual patterns... that'll be quite a challenge.

Hmm... this is so hard. What design should we use?

Oh, it looks like Momo and Leo really liked the crocodile building blocks...

Crocodiles... reptiles... hmm. What if we did a design with, like, a giant monster, shooting lasers out of its eyes, as it crawls up from the sea...?

Huh? Really? I quite like that idea...

Cynthia! Cynthia!

Hmm...?

Oh, it's you two. What is it?

We were thinking... Since you always give us gifts... we wanted to give you a gift in return too...

That's right! Recently, the director has been teaching us to paint, so we want to give this to you!

Tada!

The two hurriedly take out a canvas and spread it out in front of Cynthia and me.

In the painting, a panda looks adorable while leisurely chewing bamboo on the sunny grass.

Although the brushwork is a little crude, it gives the painting a childlike cuteness.

You guys...

I saw you had a panda keychain on your bag before! So I thought you would like this!

Well... although we haven't seen a real panda yet... we hope you'll like this...

Hehe... Of course I love it.

I'll cherish this.

Huh? Oh right...

If we use this artwork for the design, it will not only perfectly convey that childlike charm, but also reassure everyone that the orphanage is truly devoted to caring for the children, and that all funds are being used properly.

You're amazing, {var:player_nickname}! You've got a killer eye for both business and art! It's decided then!

Thank you, Momo, Leo. This is a lovely gift.

We... Did we manage to help you...?

Yeah, you helped big time! I'll take you guys to see some real pandas next time.

Yay!

{var:player_nickname}, time to head back to the studio so we can scan and upload this painting. I'll get you to try it on with me once the T-shirts are ready.

That's the spirit! Well then, let's get you to work.

Prepare yourself – you might even have to pull all-nighters with me.

You know what? Thinking about it, we've got to go with something really out there to grab everyone's attention!

Something out there, huh...? I can't say I've had much experience with styles like that before...

This is a charity gala, so you must stand out!

If we use a concept that's totally fresh new and unlike anything they've seen, it's bound to be unforgettable and a huge hit!

I hear you, but my gut tells me something isn't quite right with it...

There are certainly many ways to approach this. Do you have a more specific plan in mind?

Hmm... more specific...?

Damn, keep thinking! There's got to be something... that can shock the world!

Got it!

That's it!

A meteor... crashing down...?

Exactly! For the design, picture this: a massive comet, hurtling closer and closer to Earth! We're talking about a cataclysmic crisis, one that holds the very fate of humanity in the balance!

And because of this imminent doom, mankind has to build a satellite defense system... That'll take a fortune, of course, so they'll need a massive public fundraising campaign to get the money. The story writes itself – it's brilliant!

Oh... um, I wasn't expecting quite that much enthusiasm from you... It's a very audacious plan, to say the least.

But are you sure it'll be okay? It sounds like something an unreliable non-governmental organization would come up with...

It'll be fine. A moment like this is when you need to take a risk!

Hmm... Okay, no time to second-guess this. I'll go contact the team right away. You'll be coming too, of course.

Huh? I get to come with you too?

Yeah, you came up with the idea, so I won't let you bail now. You're stuck seeing this through with me.

Afterwards, I participated in the rehearsal with Cynthia, which turned out to be a complete disaster... In the end, we both gave up on this plan.

That said, this T-shirt was spotted by a famous director who was passing the scene, and it became the inspiration for his next big disaster movie. So at least something good came out of it.

That's it!

An... alien... invasion...?

Exactly! We can use an image of a giant mecha firing laser beams across the city! This is the ultimate threat, the kind of crisis that decides the very future of humanity!

So, to fight back against these alien invaders, mankind has to form an Earth defense force! Naturally, that'll cost a fortune, so it calls for a massive global fundraising campaign. The whole concept is just perfect, right?

Oh... um, I wasn't expecting quite that much enthusiasm from you... It's a very audacious plan, to say the least.

But are you sure it'll be okay? It sounds like something an unreliable non-governmental organization would come up with...

It'll be fine. A moment like this is when you need to take a risk!

Hmm... Okay, no time to second-guess this. I'll go contact the team right away. You'll be coming too, of course.

Huh? I get to come with you too?

Yeah, you came up with the idea, so I won't let you bail now. You're stuck seeing this through with me.

Afterwards, I participated in the rehearsal with Cynthia, which turned out to be a complete disaster... In the end, we both gave up on this plan.

That said, this T-shirt was spotted by a famous director who was passing the scene, and it became the inspiration for his next big disaster movie. So at least something good came out of it.

Under the dazzling spotlight, models walk down the glamorous runway like they own it... Ever wondered what really makes a model? Watch "The Making of a Model" to experience what it takes to become a model!

I heard that. It's not that soundproof here.

First things first, we're not here to have fun today.

I'm here to be a mentor, not a contestant.

The trainees of "The Making of a Model" are all rookies with no experience, just like you.

Since I'm going to be their mentor, I wanted to rehearse everything with you before filming so I can figure out how hard I should push them once the cameras are rolling.

Yep. I've booked out your entire schedule for today.

Relax, I'll go easy on the rookies. Now, come over here...

78, 79, 80... One more deep squat, {var:player_nickname}!

Form's off! Thighs parallel to the ground – again!

You've still got a long way to go. The fitness test just started. Stop thinking about resting.

I need to be extra strict precisely because they're new. Standing against the wall for endurance, squats for strength, and yoga for flexibility – none of it can be skipped.

You need a good foundation to have a perfect body on stage.

Not really.

Sorry, but I don't need to slim down like the others – my low body fat's just genetics.

Okay, I'm sure you've rested enough while we were chatting. Ready to continue?

60 seconds of rest is plenty. You'll be fine. Let's try something else now.

Don't let this discourage you. Maybe you're talented in other areas.

Well, there's still a body flexibility test, balance test, and... The trials for new models have only just begun.

How are you holding up? Here's an energy drink.

You actually survived all that without much professional guidance before. Not bad at all.

Actually, I should say it's amazing that you survived such intensive training even though you have no intention of becoming a model.

Haha, don't underestimate the determination people have when chasing their dreams.

In today's world of endless distractions, models, who rely on their figure and temperament to capture attention, must work harder than ever to stand out.

Models today compete with more than just each other – they're also up against versatile artists, those who'll do anything for online fame, and even virtual products designed purely to grab attention.

I'm sure you can imagine how difficult it is for models to still command the spotlight under such circumstances.

Okay, I think I've said too much. {var:player_nickname}, you should have rested enough already. Get your clothes and prepare for the photo shoot.

Did you forget the whole point of "The Making of a Model"? We need to be getting the most compelling, dynamic shots of the models when they're in front of the camera.

At the very least, it's gotten you in the groove. Change into these clothes. I picked them just for you.

As if performing a magic trick, Cynthia hands me a set of folded clothes that seem to appear out of nowhere and looks at me expectantly.

I finish changing in the fitting room and look at myself in the mirror...

As expected of a model with a professionally honed sense of aesthetics. This outfit has an elegant cutting, the fabric is comfortable, and it seems to be tailored just for me.

Where did Cynthia get my measurements from...

{var:player_nickname}, are you done yet?

Let me see... Not bad, about 90% of what I envisioned.

Don't bother trying to flatter me. An excellent mentor only looks at their student's performance.

Okay, get over yourself already. Are you prepared now, rookie?

Let me introduce myself again. I'm Cynthia, a photographer just starting out. Please bear with me.

Hmm...

This won't do at all... Is this the uncanny valley?

Your expression is so unnatural in front of the camera. To be honest, you look a little scary.

You're kind of right. I never thought I would take such... horrifying model photos.

In a sense, maybe you have a future in horror photography. Yeah, to be honest, you look a little scary.

Ahem, {var:player_nickname}, you don't have much experience in front of a camera. Is that right?

Never mind then. Being photogenic, that's an innate talent. It's not something that can be taught easily.

Having said that, not all models are naturals who know how to perform in front of a camera. In the end, it's enough to just show people what they want to see.

Maybe that's a little difficult to understand. Why don't you pretend you're looking at me when you look at the camera? Your eye contact will be more natural if you do that.

Hmm... maybe you're too nervous. Let me think about it. Oh, I know.

Here are some photos I took in the past. {var:player_nickname}, why not try matching the poses?

I take the photos Cynthia hands to me. The first one is like this...

So, the idea is for me to copy the pose she's doing in the photo...

Yes, it's much better now. You're a quick learner. Pass! Time for the next one.

Hmm... something still doesn't look right. Let's move on to the next one.

So, the idea is for me to copy the pose she's doing in the photo...

Now we're talking – that's pro-level work right there. Pass! Onto the last one now.

Hmm... something still doesn't look right. Let's move on to the last one.

So, the idea is for me to copy the pose she's doing in the photo...

Hmm... something still doesn't look right.

Well, {var:player_nickname}, it looks like you do have some talent. We're done.

Well? Indulging a little after all that hard work feels pretty good, doesn't it?

It's no big deal. I should be the one thanking you. Now I'm more confident about the program.

Hehe, you're welcome. It's just afternoon tea.

If I get the chance, I'll treat you to a feast to thank you properly.

Me? Nah, even if I have naturally low body fat, I still need to control my intake strictly.

You, however, can enjoy yourself. You can eat as messily as you like, and don't worry about me. Calorie control is a daily aspect of a model's life.

Hmm... I guess it would be really nice to be able to eat your fill without caring about your image.

But although it's challenging at times, I don't regret becoming a model at all.

No, not really, even though these things do make me happy.

...It's a long story. Do you want to hear it? It might be a little boring for you.

Let me see... Well, I'll have to start from a long time ago.

I had a rather happy childhood.

At that time, I could pursue whatever I wanted – whether it was dolls or violin lessons, everything I desired was within reach.

But life has a way of changing in a heartbeat.

The year I was supposed to study abroad, my father died in a car accident, and my mother fell ill due to grief.

Overnight, I understood that things won't always go your way in this world, and that growing up means learning to bear loss.

Anyway, due to the sudden change, I gave up studying abroad and started to take care of my mother.

...I was desperate for money back then. The family debts, my mother's medical bills... I spent sleepless nights trying to figure out how to earn enough.

When I was almost at the end of my rope...

I saw an audition advertisement for models.

Thanks to all the violin performances I had done over the years, I was already used to the camera and looking into it, so the audition went better than expected and I got the job.

After that, my popularity kept growing and the work became second nature. Funny how modeling accidentally became my career.

Hmm?

Physical fitness training, diet management, photo shoots, and the runway... Although I haven't experienced much, I can already feel how hard it is to be a model.

Hah, you should listen to what you're saying. Even though I get compliments all the time, hearing it from you like this... still makes me a little embarrassed.

Hmm, I feel like you really are someone I can trust with these things. Some memories... they do feel lighter after being shared.

...{var:player_nickname}.

I didn't think I would be the one getting encouraged instead. Even more reason for me to thank you properly then.

You've shown me just how far I've come on the road of modeling...

You're the reason I'm able to become more determined and stronger.

So, thank you.

Huh?

Yeah, it... feels good to be myself around you.

She smiles gently. Sunlight cascades over her, making her glisten.

That afternoon was particularly unforgettable. I often find myself recalling that warmth, welling up from the very core of my being.

Very good, let's continue then. Next up are opposite arm and leg raises!

One more set. Good! Now do a plank!

That's it. Now hold for a little longer. 3, 2, 1, very good! {var:player_nickname}, you have more perseverance than I thought.

Okay, you can rest now.

Strong muscles aren't built in one day. The fact that you've lasted this long in your first training session is already an accomplishment – well done.

Well, I hope you keep it up.

There's still a body flexibility test, balance test, and... The trials for new models have only just begun.

Listen up. I've got some runway tips for you.

To master your runway walk, focus on these basics: posture, your step, where you direct your gaze, your facial expression, and how you use your hands. Keep your body straight, shoulders relaxed, and arms hanging naturally...

Put your legs together, point your toes forward, bend your knees slightly, and step rhythmically...

{var:player_nickname}, try doing what I said.

Good, that's not bad.

You're doing pretty well for a beginner. There's definitely room for improvement, but that isn't something we can rush. Good job today, {var:player_nickname}.

Of course not.

Here you go. I prepared this rest plan just for you.

When you get home, make sure to rest following the advice on it. It's the best way to recharge your energy and maintain your physique.

Although you've still got a long way to go to become a model, your fitness will improve if you follow this plan.

As models, we need to pursue perfection, and there's a high price to pay for perfection.

You've only seen the tip of the iceberg today. To avoid swelling, we're not allowed to drink water in the 12 hours before going on stage. We can only eat light meals during fashion weeks to keep in shape. We even have to do five hours of weight training every day when we're not working...

These are all parts of a model's daily life.

Of course. I might be more talented than average, but even I can't walk on the runway without serious training.

Of course! Nothing is easy if you want to do it well.

Okay, seeing as we've gotten into all that, I suppose I might as well prepare a healthy diet plan for you, {var:player_nickname}.

Hmm... Let's start by making sure you get enough protein and dietary fiber. You can have chicken breast, some spinach, cherry tomatoes... And since you pushed yourself hard today, you can even have half a cob of corn too.

So then, the following week, I had no choice but to continue with that brutal, hell-like model training.

The experience was excruciating, beyond anything I can describe, but I guess I actually came out of it feeling a bit better, health-wise...

Good day! Come take a look – pick a gorgeous bouquet for your loved one! Valentine's Day is here, and we have special discounts today!

The flower sellers on the street are hawking their blooms with extra gusto today. But hey, can you blame them? After all, it's Valentine's Day.

I told Cynthia I'd bring her a gift the next time we got together, especially with how much she's been putting in recently. Little did I know it'd be Valentine's Day of all days... There's nothing I can do about it, though. Cynthia's modeling work is way busier than I thought.

I have back-to-back shoots lately, so I'm afraid we won't be able to go out together until a few days later. Sorry...

Let me see... According to my schedule, my next day off is... this day. How does that sound?

Okay, it's settled then. I'm going to make a reservation at that restaurant I've always wanted to try. Just don't you dare stand me up, alright?

Was Cynthia really unaware that it would be Valentine's today? Or...

Welcome! Looking for flowers today?

You seem like you've got something on your mind. Thinking about someone special?

Not to worry! We're all about honest dealing here. Our prices are fair, and we have a great selection of flowers for any occasion.

What would you like? Something to represent pure innocence, like these lovely irises? Or the soft tenderness of tulips? Or... are we aiming for a bold statement of love with these red roses?

It's Valentine's Day today, so you can get a discount if you buy more!

I've been fretting about what gift to buy for Cynthia for days, but as a supermodel, she probably gets bouquets all the time. Maybe I should surprise her with something unexpected.

That's such a shame. Still, I wish you all the best in love.

This person has such a way with words... One minute I'm impressed, and the next, I'm right back to agonizing over what gift to get.

What's more, as I've been running around all morning trying to find the perfect gift, my stomach is growling with hunger...

Get it now! Cynthia's limited-edition T-shirt for charity sale! Back for a short time only – don't miss out!

Huh? What's that loudspeaker saying? People are starting to gather over there.

Buy one now, and you'll have the chance to get...

To get... what?

...an exclusive poster signed by Cynthia!

Yay!

I know Cynthia's got a big following, but isn't this kind of crazy?!

Wait a minute, my top priority now should be...

Never mind food for now! Limited merch is the real feast for the soul!

That said...

Since I don't have anything else to do, maybe I should give Cynthia a call...

She should be happy to find out that so many people are lining up to buy her charity T-shirt.

Speaking of which... these fans in line probably have no idea that I'm calling Cynthia.

It's better to keep a low profile, or else who knows what these people would do in their jealousy...

Oh, it's you. Why aren't you saying anything? Calls made during work hours are charged according to my hourly rate, you know.

I'm in line to buy your charity T-shirt. Apparently, I'll get a poster signed by you if I buy one today.

I've heard about that. The charity T-shirts sold out very fast, so they brought them back for another run today.

But... do you really need to wait in line for a signed poster? I could just sign one for you later.

Hmm... I guess you're right. I've been doing photo shoots at the studio nonstop. Our plan for tonight hasn't changed, though. Don't be late.

Hah... sometimes I just don't understand that mind of yours. Anyway, our plan for tonight hasn't changed. Don't be late.

You still remember the restaurant I booked, right? Dinner's on me tonight. I've been meaning to thank you properly since that first charity sale, and tonight's the night!

Alright then... Okay! Coming! ...It's getting busy over here again, so let's catch up later?

The first charity sale Cynthia mentioned was held shortly after the charity gala. Her T-shirt got such a great response that it was brought back as an additional item to help raise funds.

Oh, right...

Amid that heavy summer rain, the neon lights in the distance bled into a hazy blur...

And Cynthia and I, soaking wet from scrambling to save the shipping boxes, had no choice but to throw on those charity T-shirts for the time being.

I was so caught up in the moment, it completely slipped my mind that I was wearing what looked like a matching couple T-shirt with a popular model...

It might be because it's wet, but this label is driving me nuts now – my neck is so itchy I can barely stand it.

Phew – that should be the last one. We're finally finished.

You've been fiddling with your collar for a while now. What did it ever do to you?

Or... do you want to wear the one I'm wearing?

Aha, I knew it. The label is the culprit.

I really thought we were working with a reliable clothing supplier this time...

Cynthia, who was leaning against the wall, suddenly straightens up and walks over to me.

Well, as the quality inspector, I guess it is my responsibility to personally check whether the products meet the standards.

Bang! My back hits the cool wall, and her wet hair brushes my face.

Don't move. I'll take it off for you soon.

She's standing so close to me that I can sense the warmth of her body.

A gentle tingle spreads across my cheeks, and my heart suddenly skips a beat for reasons I can't explain...

Come to think of it. On that day, Cynthia seemed to have said that she would treat me to a meal to thank me for helping...

Though it happened quite a while back, it still feels vivid in my mind.

Hello? ...Hello?

Sorry, Cynthia's charity T-shirts are already sold out. The customer in front of you bought the last one...

I'm really sorry...! There's still one last poster though... You can have it for free.

As compensation, we'd also like to give you a dining voucher for the mall nearby. Please, we insist!

Oh? All I wanted was the poster anyway. Guess I'm quite lucky.

That said, I still have no clue what to get Cynthia, and that unexpected dining voucher just kicked my hunger into overdrive... So...

Welcome! We're doing a special promotion for Valentine's Day. What would you like?

The Valentine's atmosphere is strong here too... Which one should I get for Cynthia? My gaze naturally falls on the most gorgeous cake.

Oh, you have such good taste. This cake is our special Valentine's Day cake for two. It's perfect for celebrating the day with your loved one!

This thing is clearly way more exquisite than the other cakes! This might just be a sneaky marketing trap...

But it's still a limited-edition Valentine's Day cake. Would it be out of line to buy something this extravagant?

As I'm thinking that, the memory of a previous meal with Cynthia flashes through my mind.

Yes, this is so nice. The smell of baking in this place feels so soothing.

After surviving this crazy week, I absolutely deserve some desserts.

Geez...

True, dietary control is crucial for models – down to the last digit even...

But within those tight calorie limits, keeping your spirits up matters just as much.

If you push yourself too hard, even the most professional forced smile can't hide that flicker of frustration – people will notice.

Mmhm, now's the time for me to recharge – which is exactly why I brought you here to try out these desserts.

Eating alone has its charm, but for a real recharge, sharing these with you makes all the difference.

Just kidding. I've got to do an ad read tomorrow, and too much sugar will mess up my voice.

Um... yeah, but I didn't think I would need to practice pronunciation when I started out.

To perfect my pronunciation, I even have to practice saying the vowels. Do you know what the first vowel syllable is?

The moment I open my lips, something soft and sweet fills my mouth.

Cynthia had scooped some cream off the cake and fed it to me.

Her smile is all I can see at that moment.

How's the flavor? I have good taste, huh?

Um... excuse me, have you found anything you like?

The clerk's question brings me back to the present, though the memory does remind me that models need to control their calorie intake.

After all, we're having dinner tonight. The last thing I want is to make Cynthia stress over her calorie count.

I leave the dessert shop quickly without picking a gift. Time is running out.

What does Cynthia like? Has she ever mentioned it before...

I search my memories desperately, but all I remember are the beautiful moments I've spent with her.

As my gaze sweeps the area in frustration, something catches my eye – a panda plushie peeking from a nearby shop window.

I know! Pandas! Cynthia told me she loves pandas.

This is it. This will definitely do! This is the perfect Valentine's Day gift!

With this thought in mind, I start walking briskly toward the gift shop.

The good news? I got the perfect gift, no sweat at all. The bad news? I'm currently wrestling a panda plushie the size of a small child while trying not to crease Cynthia's signed poster. Let's just say getting around isn't exactly a breeze right now.

Perhaps my hands are just too full. The poster breaks free when a gust of evening wind blows past.

The poster skims along the ground for a moment, then the wind lifts it into the air and it quickly falls back down.

I lunge for it, but can only reach out with one hand – I still need to protect the panda plushie in my arms. My momentum carries me forward, sending me into a slide on the pavement on my knees...

You're in a bit of a sorry state, {var:player_nickname}.

I have a habit of being early.

The traffic is jammed everywhere at this time, so it's faster to take the subway.

Yeah, I tried to speed it up as much as possible.

Because I didn't want you to wait too long.

What are you just standing there for? Let's go.

Pfft! I saw it from far away. So it's for me? Thank you.

This is totally my kind of thing. You should be starving by now. Let's talk after we get to the restaurant.

Huh? What is it?

...!

O-Of course I know! These commercialized holidays are...

Oh come on, so what if it's Valentine's Day?

You sure are bold, {var:player_nickname}.

As the evening breeze caresses her smooth hair, time seems to slow down at this moment.

A light rail train thunders past, roaring as it approaches before fading into the distance. Yet, Cynthia's words cut through it all with perfect clarity.

Yeah, Happy Valentine's Day.

Her gaze is firm and gentle as she says those words.

What I need to do now is eat!

As I bite into the double cheeseburger, savory juices and sauce drip through my fingers onto the plate.

So warm, so satisfied... Suddenly, all my pent-up fatigue seems to rise...

Soon, I'm back home from the noisy streets, slipping into my warm, cozy bed.

My eyelids are too heavy to keep open, but I can't shake this feeling I'm forgetting something important...

When I wake up, my phone shows 17:00.

...And outside the window, the sky has already taken on a reddish hue.

What's even more terrifying is that... I have three missed calls from Cynthia.

Shoot! If I don't get going now, I'm seriously gonna be late!