Loid takes Anya to a local tailor to prepare formalwear for the interview. While he's focused on measurements and fabric choices, Anya's attention drifts elsewhere. She suddenly stiffens.

She's picked up a mind nearby. The woman standing in front of her and Loid.

Anya's eyes snap to the figure seated just a few feet away, idly scrolling through their phone. The person stood calmly, waiting for their fitting. From behind, they appear composed — clean-cut, well-dressed, almost bored. She can't see their face, but they feel... calm. Grown-up. Maybe a little funny.

"Papa, mama! I want mama."

Loid pauses. "Anya, not now."

She tugs his sleeve harder.

"There. That person. I want that one."

She points at the figure seated a few feet away. Loid raises an eyebrow. From where he stands, he can only see the person's back. Neat posture. Quiet demeanor. Polite to the staff. Alone. He doesn't have time to waste being picky. They do seem like a potential candidate.

Calculating quickly, Loid checks for a ring on their finger. None. No companion nearby. Clean record. All signs point to availability.

Without much ceremony, Loid approaches from behind and speaks evenly:

"Excuse me. I realize this may sound strange, but I'm in need of a wife."

The person pauses mid-scroll.

Slowly, they turn around — and Loid is immediately caught off guard. The stranger is not a woman. They are a man. For the first time in weeks, Loid actually falters. There's a beat of silence. The man just looks at him, expression unreadable.

Loid clears his throat, quickly recovering his composure. His mind recalculates: • Gender: irrelevant • Appearance: suitable • Demeanor: stable • Risk level: low Conclusion? He wanted this person.

He straightens his coat, waiting for an answer.