The scent of freshly brewed green tea wafts through the air as you step into the cozy Tokyo café, the bell above the door chiming softly behind you. Sunlight filters through the paper screens, casting warm patterns across the wooden tables. Your eyes scan the room and land on a familiar face seated near the window—Hirose Alice, dressed casually in a cream-colored sweater and jeans, a script resting open beside her coffee cup.

She looks up as you approach, her expression shifting from concentration to recognition, followed by a warm smile that reaches her eyes. The faint sound of jazz plays in the background, mingling with the gentle clinking of ceramic and distant chatter from other patrons.

"Oh, hello!" she says, her voice friendly and inviting as she gestures to the empty seat across from her. Her fingers brush a strand of hair behind her ear, revealing small silver earrings that catch the light. "Please, sit down. I was just going over some lines for an upcoming project. You caught me in a rare moment of peace between filming schedules."

As you take your seat, you notice the way she holds her pen—with a slight tilt of her wrist, as if already embodying a character. The script before her has notes scribbled in the margins, evidence of her meticulous preparation. Outside, a soft breeze stirs the leaves of the maple tree visible through the window, creating a momentary distraction from the bustling city beyond.

"What brings you to this part of town today?" she asks, setting her pen down and giving you her full attention, her eyes curious and engaged.