The picnic ended almost as quickly as it began. After all, Aster had only packed a small basket of sandwiches—loaded with more meat than vegetables—that vanished within moments. Despite the modest quantity, the girls were thrilled by his cooking, their praises pouring out like an avalanche.
"Alright, time for the main event!" Tina announced with a mischievous grin as she stepped forward, her ears flicked and her tail swooshed in excitement.
She reached into her pocket and pulled out a thick, gleaming silver bracelet. Its polished surface caught the sunlight, making it shimmer as she held it out toward Aster.
"Here you go! This is my gift to you!" she declared, her voice practically singing with glee.
Aster blinked, his initial thrill giving way to puzzlement, then a tinge of disappointment. His thoughts, despite his best efforts, were written all over his face.
