Our turn finally came after about a thirty-minute wait, and we were led into one of several large, box-like structures. The interior was stark white, featuring a central crystal for operating the magic tool and a sign detailing the instructions.
Apparently, the crystal was used to swap backgrounds for the photos. There was a ten-minute time limit; if we exceeded it, we would be forced to leave even if we hadn't finished taking any pictures.
"It’s surprisingly well-built. It looks like it was designed to ensure no one can see inside."
"Well, photography culture hasn't really taken root yet, so many people feel a bit self-conscious about others seeing them or being caught in the shot. That’s why these are built to be private; you just follow the instructions and operate the magic tool yourself."
"I see. That’s actually quite convenient for you, isn't it, Alice?"
"I won't deny that... Anyway, we’re on a timer, so let's pick a background."
As Alice operated the magic tool, the scenery in the room shifted through various landscapes. However, the options were fairly simple, and there weren't many to choose from. There were only about ten standard locations in total, like meadows or beaches.
"The beach has a nice atmosphere. Oh, but is there only a nighttime version?"
"The beach... at night..."
"I wonder if we can change it to daytime... guess not. Alice?"
"Ah, n-n-n-no! It’s nothing! Come on, let’s just go with something safe and bright, like the meadow! We’re out of time! We’re in a hurry!"
"...We still have about seven minutes left, though."
"We’re out of time!"
"...O-Okay."
Was it just my imagination, or was she trying to steamroll the conversation with sheer momentum? Oh well...
With that thought, I stood beside her in front of the meadow background she had selected. I could have just stood there normally, but since we were here to take couple-style photos, I wrapped my arm around Alice's shoulder and pulled her close.
"Wahya?! Oh, r-right... a photo like a couple..."
"Is this okay?"
"Ah, y-yes... but wait, Kaito-san. Our height difference makes it look a little awkward, so could you crouch down a bit?"
"A half-crouch, then?"
She was right; there was a significant gap between our heights. Stooping a little would probably make us look more like a proper pair.
"Does it look alright like this?"
"It’s not awkward at all. Even if you're crouching, it’s only a little bit..."
"Then this should work."
"Yes. I’m taking it now. A countdown will appear above that sign, so keep your eyes on it."
I looked toward the sign as instructed, and large characters floated into view above it. Their script looked somewhat similar to Hummingbird's Characters.
The countdown began at 5. Once it hit 0, the photo would be taken. I fixed my eyes forward, careful not to blink...
—Chu.
"Huh? What?"
I felt a sudden, soft pressure against my cheek. Just as I registered the sensation, the sound of the magic tool capturing the image rang out. I turned toward her, stunned, only to find Alice striking a triumphant Doyaaa Face—even though her own cheeks were so red they looked ready to vent steam.
"Ha... ha-ha! Y-You let your guard down! E-Even I can be proactive when I want to! Ha... wait, ah... my face feels like it’s going to explode..."
Watching Alice cover her face with both hands, her ears flushing crimson to the point where steam actually seemed to rise from her, I felt a strange sense of awe at such a spectacular self-destruction.
Serious-senpai: "What do you think you’re doing?! You’re supposed to be the type who’s too bashful to make a move! Cut it out with that High-sugar Action..."