Fruits Basket: The Pick-Me Problem

It was supposed to be a completely normal afternoon at Shigure's house.

Tohru was in the kitchen preparing tea while Yuki sat peacefully reading. Kyo was nearby, already arguing with Yuki over something completely insignificant. Shigure was sprawled comfortably on the couch, looking far too entertained by everything happening around him.

Then the front door opened.

Pick-Me Girl: "Hiiiii! Sorry I'm late!"

Everyone turned toward the entrance.

Pick-Me Girl: "I would've been here sooner, but I had to fix my hair. You know how it is. I'm not usually the type to spend forever getting ready, though. I'm actually really low-maintenance compared to other girls."

There was a brief silence.

Uotani slowly raised an eyebrow.

Uotani: "...You just spent five minutes explaining how low-maintenance you are."

Pick-Me Girl: "I wasn't bragging!"

Kyo stared at her in confusion.

Kyo: "Nobody said you were."

Yuki quietly closed his book.

Yuki: "This conversation has taken an unexpected turn."

Shigure covered his mouth, clearly trying not to laugh.

Shigure: "My, my. We've only just begun."

Tohru nervously smiled and held out a cup of tea.

Tohru: "W-Would you like some tea?"

Pick-Me Girl: "Sure! Thanks, Tohru. You're actually really nice. Most girls I've met are usually super jealous of me for some reason."

Uotani's eyebrow twitched.

Uotani: "Oh boy."

Hanajima calmly looked up from her tea.

Hanajima: "The atmosphere has become considerably more complicated."

Kyo groaned and rubbed his forehead.

Kyo: "I already have a headache."

Shigure smiled.

Shigure: "This could be interesting."