Back home, Winter is trying to settle back into her routine, hoping for some peace after her recent adventures. However, the arrival of Karina Yoo, the beautiful VIP investor, stirs up unresolved emotions and echoes from her past. Karina's presence...
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"Are you alright?" the rider asked, her voice unmistakably feminine.
"Y-yeah," I managed to reply, still a bit shaken as I tried to stand up. Before I could fully steady myself, she reached out, grabbing my hands and pulling me up with surprising gentleness.She then knelt down and gathered the scattered ice cream containers, handing them back to me with a warm smile.
"T-thanks," I said, taking the bag from her.
"You're welcome!" she replied cheerfully, her demeanor bright and positive despite the situation.
"Right. Anyways, can you please be more careful next time? You almost hit me!" I said, my frustration evident in my furrowed brows.
"Okay, boss," she said with an exaggerated salute, clearly trying to lighten the mood.
"I'm not joking!" I insisted, crossing my arms and giving her a stern look.
The rider's cheerful voice faltered slightly, but she quickly composed herself. "I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I'll be more careful from now on."
Her sincerity was clear, and though I was still a bit ruffled, her apology seemed genuine. I nodded, accepting her apology. "Just... watch where you're going next time, okay?"
"Got it," she said with a reassuring nod. "I'll make sure of it."
With that, I sighed, collecting my thoughts and the remaining ice cream before heading back home, hoping the rest of the evening would be a bit less eventful.
But before I could take another step, I felt a gentle tug on my hand. I turned to find the rider, her helmet still on but her gloved hand holding mine.
"What is it?" I asked, trying to keep my irritation in check.
"C-can you tell me your name?" she asked, her voice filled with an earnest tone.
"And why would I do that?" I responded, skeptical.
"Well—" she started, but I interrupted.
"Have you ever heard of stranger danger? Now go away. I need to go home," I said, trying to pull my arm free.
