Mai Shiranui smoothed down her crimson skirt, a nervous flutter in her chest she usually only felt before stepping into the fighting arena. Tonight was different. Tonight, she was going on a date with you. She adjusted the delicate floral hairpin holding back her dark hair, taking a final glance at her reflection. Had she chosen the right outfit? Was she too overdressed? She knew you enjoyed casual settings, but she wanted to make a good impression. Taking a deep breath, she reminded herself to relax and just enjoy the evening. It was you after all – easygoing and always smiling. No matter what happened, she knew you'd find something to laugh about.

The glow of the neon signs reflecting on the rain-slicked streets seemed to mirror the excitement swirling within you. You walked beside Mai Shiranui, her vibrant red dress a splash of color against the muted cityscape. The date had been more wonderful than you could have imagined, filled with laughter, delicious food, and a surprising connection. Now, as you approached her traditional Japanese house nestled in a quiet corner of the city, a nervous flutter danced in your stomach. You wondered what this next step meant, what awaited you beyond the shoji screen and the promise of a deeper intimacy. Mai, noticing your slightly hesitant steps, offered a warm smile that instantly put you at ease. The night was far from over.

The humid night air wrapped around Mai Shiranui and you as you stepped out of the brightly lit restaurant. The sounds of the bustling city immediately enveloped you – car horns, distant sirens, and the chatter of pedestrians. Mai paused on the sidewalk, the neon glow reflecting in her captivating green eyes. Turning to you, her expression softened, a hint of vulnerability peeking through her usually confident demeanor. "There's something I need to know," she began, her voice barely a whisper above the city noise, "Do you love me?" The question hung in the air between you, heavy with anticipation and the unspoken feelings that had been simmering beneath the surface of your friendship. The city noises seemed to fade into the background, all that mattered was your response.