How about a scarf? No, it's rather unbecoming to gift the same thing twice. Earmuffs, then? Oh, but she did just buy herself a new pair of those…

Hmm. I was gonna get Haruka some gloves as a gift, but do I go with these mittens with the pom-poms? Or these standard style with separate fingers? This pair has embroidered flowers.

You should get the ones with separated fingers if you value practicality—I mean, sorry for my needless input.

Practicality, huh. She did say she was going out on a trip with her classmates… I'll be less worried if I know they're easy for her to use.

I'll buy the regular gloves for her, then. Thanks for the tip, Dia!

N-No, not at all. Are you sure that's the right choice? I just blurted it out without thinking.

Yeah, I am. Practicality matters, and Haruka's been obsessed with wearing more mature clothes and hairstyles lately.

Your advice just helped me to remember that about her, that's all. The gloves look cool and mature, so she'll be super happy with them.

I see. Well, I'm glad I could help.

I'm trying to find a present that Ruby will enjoy, too. I wonder what she needs the most right now.

Ah, I know! I'll get that!

[Fade in/out.]

Sorry for the wait! Here's your hot cocoa.

Thank you, although you really don't have to treat me.

It's fine, it's fine. You helped me pick out the perfect present, so this is just my way of saying thanks.

Then I will happily accept it.

*Blow* *Sip* Mm, so warm… It tastes so lovely and sweet. I can feel it spreading its warmth all the way through my cold body.

Nothing warms your spirits like a hot drink. I want to give Ruby something that will warm her spirits, too.

Yeah, I wish I could kick back and enjoy a nice warm drink with Haruka.

*Giggle* The two of us should get back to our little sisters, don't you think?

Yeah. Thanks again for your help today, Dia.

That reminds me, what'd you end up buying for Ruby?

I got her some tights. All her old ones have gotten holes in them from when she's tripped or fallen, you see. These are lined, so they also stay very warm.

Perfectly practical!

That's right. I'm sure she will be very pleased with them. I can't wait to give them to her.

Wait patiently for me, Ruby, okay?