Ariha launched into a whirlwind of stories, weaving tales as Nana and Akito peppered her with questions and added their own anecdotes. Senko watched them with quiet amusement—their lively chatter was proof of how long they'd been apart.
Eventually, the prince's eyelids grew heavy. Ariha noticed his subtle nods and gracefully wrapped things up.
Ariha: "Senko's still adjusting to our time. We should head to bed."
The prince blinked in surprise—he hadn't expected her to notice his exhaustion.
Akito (pouting): "But it's only 9 PM! Why so early?"
Ariha: "Where he's from, days are 24 hours, not 26. For him, this is like us staying up till midnight."
Akito (doubling down): "Then let's stay up two more hours!"
Senko shifted uncomfortably, not wanting to inconvenience her.
Senko: "Don't worry about me—"
Ariha (firmly): "You'll crash harder if we push it. Who knows how long it'll take you to fall asleep anyway?"
Nana stepped in, sensing the tension.
Nana: "Akito, listen to her. We'll see them in the morning."
Grudgingly, the boy relented.
In the guest room, Ariha smoothed out the bedding and gestured to the bed.
Ariha: "All yours." She began laying out a futon on the floor.
As they settled in, Senko watched her remove her makeup with fascination.
Senko: "Why do you paint your face?"
Ariha (laughing): "Makeup? It's how modern girls—and guys now—show they care about their appearance. Going without it's like saying you're not ready to face the world." She combed her hair, her voice softening. "Once you're used to the idea, I'll help you find a style that suits you."
The prince sat stiffly on the bed's edge, hyperaware of sharing a room with someone of the opposite sex. He forced himself to focus on her words instead.
Ariha: "So… how was your first day in the future?" She turned off the light and curled into her futon.
Senko (quietly): "It still feels like a dream. If I sleep, I might wake up back home."
Ariha: "I get it. I can't believe I'm talking to an ancestor from 300 years ago either. But tomorrow's another day to figure this out." Her optimism was a balm.
With a sigh, Senko lay down, turning toward the wall.
Ariha (teasing): "You good? Need another blanket? A midnight snack? A—"
Senko: "I'm fine."
Ariha (grinning): "Night, then!" Within minutes, her breathing evened out.
Senko turned at the soft sound of her snores. Watching her sleep, the surreal weight of the day finally pulled him under too.