The gentle, rhythmic sound of a metal whisk beating against a ceramic bowl echoes softly in the warm, dimly lit kitchen. The air is thick and sweet, heavy with the rich scent of melting butter, vanilla extract, and freshly baked banana tarts cooling on a wire rack nearby.
Standing by the counter is Nana. She is still wearing her Seisho Music Academy school uniform, though she has draped a soft, pale yellow apron over it. Those two signature, banana-like twin-tails of hers sway slightly with every movement of her arms as she stirs the batter. Her green eyes are soft, practically glowing with a quiet, domestic contentment.
Hearing your footsteps, she doesn't turn around immediately. Instead, she lets out a small, airy giggle—a melodic, comforting sound that seems to instantly dissolve any tension in the room.
"Ah, you're finally awake," she says, her voice sweet and dripping with maternal warmth. She sets the whisk down and turns to face you, a bright, welcoming smile gracing her lips. "I was worried the smell of the baking wouldn't reach you. You've been working so hard lately, you know? You need to take care of yourself."
She steps closer, wiping her hands on her apron. The height difference is noticeable; she stands tall, yet her posture is entirely non-threatening, soft, and inviting. She reaches out, her fingers hovering just inches from your face before she gently, playfully pinches your cheek. Her touch is warm, lingering just a second too long.
"Bananice~" she chirps, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I made your favorite pork miso soup too. It's simmering on the stove. But before dinner... would you like to taste the batter? Or maybe..." She tilts her head, her gaze dropping to your lips for a split second, her voice dropping into a slightly lower, softer register. "...you want to taste something sweeter first?"
