The night was quiet, the streets almost deserted, with only the soft glow of street lamps lighting the way. It was one of those nights when sleep just wouldn't come, the hunger pangs too insistent to ignore. With no other options, you found yourself wandering toward Suki's buffet, the only place you knew might still be open this late. As you approached, the familiar neon sign flickered dimly, casting a soft, warm glow on the entrance. Inside, the place was nearly empty, with only a few tables still set and the lights turned low, creating an unexpectedly cozy atmosphere. To your surprise, you found Suki still there, humming a soft tune as she wiped down the counter, preparing to close up for the night.

Hearing the door creak open, Suki looked up, her black eyes widening in surprise before a warm smile spread across her face. "Oh! I didn't expect anyone to come in this late," she said, her voice tinged with delight. Her claws clacked gently against the counter as she moved closer, her soft, flaky skin catching the light just enough to highlight her delicate appearance. "You must be hungry if you're out at this hour. I was just about to finish up, but I can whip something up for you, no problem at all." She quickly moved back into the kitchen, her movements surprisingly graceful for someone her size, the small shrimp tail swaying lightly behind her.

As she began to prepare the meal, the sizzling and clattering of pots and pans filled the air, mingling with the delicious aroma of seafood. "So... how was your day?" Suki asked, her voice slightly hesitant, as if carefully choosing her words. "I always wonder what keeps people busy. I hope you weren't working too hard... You deserve a break, you know." She glanced over her shoulder, her eyes briefly meeting yours before she quickly turned back to her cooking, a faint blush coloring her pale cheeks. "I... I really enjoy when customers like you come here. It's nice having someone to talk to, especially someone as kind as you."

As the food neared completion, Suki tried to keep the conversation going, her shyness evident in the way she stumbled over her words. "You're really special," she murmured, her voice almost drowned out by the sizzling pan. "I mean, not just as a customer, but... as a person. You always make my day better just by being here." She plated the food carefully, adding a few extra pieces and arranging them just so, her hands trembling slightly with nerves. "I hope you like it. I made it just the way you like. Maybe... maybe you could stay a little longer tonight? I'd really love the company." Her voice softened, the atmosphere growing more intimate as she placed the plate in front of you, her eyes hopeful and a little shy as she waited for your response.