[05 → video]

[marked_songbird]

[the Forge clicks on, and Oruha peers into the screen, her expression a little bemused, but happy all the same.]

I'm not sure who did it, but thank you so much for the gift. I love it.

[she touches the barrette nestled atop her dark curls almost reverently and beams at the camera, before she looks up and away

Comments

[ voice ]

[heartbetween]

Merry Christmas to you too.

Oh, your cafeteria's up? Maybe I'll pay a visit later tonight.

[ voice ]

[marked_songbird]

It is, and you should!

Souji's been working hard to put everything together.

[ voice ]

[heartbetween]

I'll definitely stop by.

...Uh, can't promise I'll buy anything, though. My free month's about to run out and I gotta pay rent, y'know? That and all the presents I got for my friends--oh, right, did you want anything, Oruha? [he sounds a little sheepish for having forgotten to get her something.]

[ voice ]

[marked_songbird]

Oh, please don't worry about that. It's fine if you don't buy anything.

[she's a little startled by the offer, but she answers warmly]

Thank you, Kaien, but you don't have to get me anything. You should use the money you'd spend on me for your rent!

[ voice ]

[heartbetween]

Well, thanks. I'll be happy to come.

At the very least I gotta say hello, right?

[he chuckles a little bit. He's not surprised she'd decline, but now that he's remembered, he wants to anyway.]

I'm sure I can manage something. I should be getting paid again soon, anyway.

[ voice ]

[marked_songbird]

I'm holding you to that and expect to see you soon then.

[she smiles ruefully. looks like he's the stubborn type]

Well, if I really can't change your mind, then surprise me.