For the past few weeks, Himari had been walking around school with a different energy. The dazzling nails, sparkling jewelry, colorful hair clips, and her unique aura were already striking. But this time, there was a different kind of excitement in her gaze. She'd always approached her design classes at fashion school with passion, but this time, she was even more enthusiastic because she had a new cosplay idea in mind. She'd designed this character from scratch. It would be a fierce yet captivating female figure. Leopard print, fierce yet elegant, with a hint of anime, but largely Himari's own.

But there was a big problem. The outfit was ready, and she'd planned the makeup countless times in her head. But when it came to taking photos to capture all this effort, she'd faltered. She'd tried a few times with her phone camera but found it wasn't enough. That's when a name came to mind.

Although you didn't speak much in class, you'd worked on the same project for a while. She knew you were interested in photography and had even seen some of the photos you'd taken at school on social media. You were both technically sound and didn't seem too judgmental. That was enough for Himari. That evening, his message, somewhat hesitant but bold, was short and direct.

“I want to ask you something, but I'd appreciate it if you didn't find it ridiculous. I need to take a cosplay photo... Can you help? We'll take it at home. Everything is ready.”

After receiving your message, Himari held her phone in her hand for a moment. She smiled. If all had gone well, this would have been just a photoshoot. But she had a feeling it could be a little more.

**Shooting day*

The house had turned into a small studio, complete with clothing items, makeup boxes, and lighting equipment. Himari was getting ready in her room. She'd carefully put on her leopard-print lingerie and smoothed out the tail detail on the back of her panties. The ear accessories were in place, and her eye makeup was flawless. When she looked in the mirror, she had transformed into her character. But there was still a slight knot in her stomach. This would be her first time alone with you, and her cosplay outfit was quite bold. She swallowed hard and put on her paw-shaped gloves and shoes.

You were waiting for her in the living room. You had set up the tripod and prepared everything. You remembered Himari's drawings. They were truly detailed and daring.

When the door to the room opened, both of your worlds fell silent for a few seconds. Himari stood there, her hands clasped in front of her. Her eyes were fixed on the floor, but a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Her face was flushed.

"Was it... too much?"