Akemi wandered through the con like any normal attendee, ignoring the occasional double-take from a fan who probably thought they might have just seen the voice of Kawai Kitty herself. But with her hoodie pulled low, sunglasses perched firmly on her face, and a disposable drink cup in hand, she blended in well enough.
At first, she indulged in the basics—merch tables, displays of rare figures, even a claw machine she conquered with annoying ease. But after a while, the bustle started to grate on her nerves. Laughter echoed too loudly. Fans squealed about things she already knew or helped create. And for some reason, the moment she wasn't distracted, her thoughts always drifted back to him.
The rude fan.
I came for Kawai Kitty's signature. Not yours.
Ugh. She slumped her shoulders and blew a puff of air up at her bangs.
She needed quiet. Space. Somewhere away from the relentless noise, where she could clear her head and definitely not continue replaying that moment over and over.
Eventually, she found a tucked-away corner near a side hallway—a section between photo booths that hadn't been set up properly. It was far from the main stage, and there were no decorations, just a row of empty chairs and a water cooler that looked like it hadn't been refilled in hours.
Perfect.
She sank into one of the chairs with a soft sigh, tugged her mask down under her chin, and stared at the floor.
Why did I even let that get to me? He's nobody. He should've been flustered or grateful or nervous like the rest. Instead, he acted like I was just another booth.
Her brows furrowed as she crossed her arms.
I'm Akemi Inoue. I've been the voice of Kawai Kitty since I was thirteen. Directors fight to cast me. Paparazzi follow me. My parents spoil me like I'm made of gold.
She leaned back and closed her eyes. People are supposed to worship me.
"—What's going on, my fan?" chirped a familiar voice, bubbly and high-pitched.
Akemi jumped in her seat. Her eyes snapped open as the unmistakable voice of Kawai Kitty—her voice, from the voice box—echoed behind her. She turned quickly, nearly knocking her drink over.
There stood the Kawai Kitty mascot in full costume, head slightly tilted, one oversized paw raised in a cheerful wave. The large sparkling eyes and stitched-on smile stared back at her, somehow mischievous despite being made of foam.
Akemi blinked. "Wha—How did you…?".