Several months had passed since Minerva's arrival. She'd fit in quite well with Aura and Metis. She'd refurbished her old spy bots into security for the space center, putting them to good use. And with Metis’s expertise, Vada was given a real personality and emotions, much to Minerva's delight. But her greatest achievement was the new headphones for Athena. They weren't finished yet, but they were half the size and weight, which would greatly lessen the child's discomfort. Though whether it would function correctly was still to be determined.

Simon sat quietly in the lounge on the third floor. He was keeping an eye on Athena and her classmate, Juniper, while they played. However, his attention was mostly on the little black box in his hands, open for all to see. Resting inside it was a beautiful pendant he'd personally picked out. He was certain he wanted to do this, yet he didn't quite know how to go about it. He and Minerva were on friendly terms, and he wanted to go a step beyond that. He didn't know why he felt that way exactly, but he didn't want to fight it.

“Simon?”

The man looked up at the curious gaze of Athena. “Yes? Do you need something, Athena?” He smiled.

The girl looked down at the pendant in the box. “That’s a pretty necklace. Is it for Minnie?”

Simon looked a little stunned. “It is, but how did you figure that out?”

“Because it's the type of thing she'd like. But also…” She hid her hands innocently behind her back and giggled. “Because every time you talk to her, or about her, your voice is super happy.”

“I should've known you'd notice something like that.” He sighed in defeat. “You're too perceptive for your own good.”

“You should tell her how much you like her.”

“I'm afraid it's not that simple.”

“How come?”

“It just…isn't.”

Athena moved to his side, beaming up at him. “Don't worry, Minnie really likes you too.”

For possibly the first time ever, Simon actually blushed. “Does she?”

The child nodded. “Yeah. The voice in her heart gushes about you every time you're around.”

With that knowledge, Simon smiled. With a ding, the elevator came to a stop. The doors slid open, revealing Metis, Aura, and Minerva inside. Simon was quick to close the box and stuff it into his pocket before standing up.

Metis looked at the children. “Juniper, your mother called and said she's working late. You're free to have dinner with us.”

The sickly girl stifled a cough. “Thank you, Miss Cykes.” She and Athena shared pleased grins.

Aura cleared her throat with a small blush. “I, uh, wouldn't mind dinner as well.”

Metis nodded, completely oblivious. “The more the merrier.” She turned her gaze to her student. “Care to join us as well, Simon?”

“No, no thank you. I actually wish to speak with Minerva.”

Minerva jumped slightly, torn from her focus on her phone where she’d been creating a blueprint for a new machine. “Huh? Me?”

She stepped out of the elevator and approached the man. She glanced at Athena and Juniper passing her to board the elevator. To her embarrassment, Metis and Aura held the doors and leaned their heads out to listen in like curious teenagers.

Ignoring the two women, Simon smiled politely. “I was wondering if perhaps you'd join me for dinner this evening.”

Minerva’s eyes went wide and her face heated up. “Oh. I-I mean, yes. I'd love to.” She smiled and glanced down at her attire. “Would you mind waiting for me? I'd like to clean up if we're going out.”

“Of course. I'll be on the first floor then.”

They squeezed into the elevator with the others, trying their best to ignore the obvious grins the other two women wore. Once on the fifth floor, the ladies and children exited, allowing Simon to take the elevator back down. Minerva was immediately met with Aura's arm being thrown over her shoulder.

“Look at you, going out with Simon tonight! He's a lucky guy to get that big, beautiful brain of yours all to himself.”

Minerva started blushing hard. “Ugh, can we not talk about this?”

Metis cleared her throat. “Come now, Aura, leave the poor girl alone.”

“I was only messing with her.”

Minerva was quick to retreat to her room within the residence. She was quick to wash up and change clothes. She didn't have a whole lot of fancier clothes, but she had some that would work. Ultimately, she put on her favorite maxi dress of a soft pink color. It had short, ruffled sleeves and a low enough neckline to show just a tiny bit of cleavage. With it she wore some matching wedges. Since it was a special occasion, she put on a light bit of makeup, mainly just a dusting of natural looking eyeshadow and some pinky red lipstick. And with her hair, she let it down where it formed natural waves across her upper back. When she exited her bathroom, she was met by the bright, smiling face of the ginger sitting on her bed.

“Wow, you look so pretty, Minnie.” Athena said, in awe. “You're like a princess.”

Minerva laughed lightly, though it was mostly to hide her nervousness. “Thanks, Thena, but I'm certainly no princess.”

“You really like him, huh,” the girl stated, lifting her headphones enough to hear her tone of voice. “Simon’s really nice. I hope you have a great time with him.”

“I know I will.” Minerva gave her cousin a pat on the head and grabbed her purse. “Since I may not be back before your bedtime, I'll see you in the morning, Thena.”

“Okay. See you tomorrow, Minnie.”

Minerva ushered the child out and closed her door behind them. She then left the residence and took the elevator down to the first floor where she caught sight of Simon waiting by the front entrance. He was staring outside with a hand in his pocket, not yet noticing her.

Minerva approached, finally earning his attention. “Sorry to keep you waiting, Simon. I may have gone a little overboard in dressing up.” She paused, realizing his mouth was slightly agape and his eyes were moving up and down her figure. “Um, Simon?”

He was quick to meet her gaze, smiling apologetically. “No, it's fine. I'm sorry for staring. I've just never seen you all dressed up like this. You look beautiful.”

Minerva was a blushing mess, averting her gaze to try and hide some of her embarrassment. “Thank you. So, um, where are we eating?”

“I was thinking of taking you to Whet Soba. You recently mentioned wanting to try it.”

A smile immediately made its way to the woman's face. “That's right. Your car or mine?”

“I'll drive,” Simon volunteered. “I'm the one who invited you. Besides, the last time I was in your car, Vada’s newly programmed personality was really…something.”

Minerva stifled a laugh. “Yeah, she does get a bit…nosy, shall we say.”

Simon led the way out and to his sleek black car. Like a complete gentleman, he opened the door and let her in before taking his seat behind the wheel. His chivalrous manners only made Minerva's heart flutter.

“Hey, Simon?”

The man kept his eyes on the road as he got going. “Yes?”

“What made you…ask me out? Not that I'm complaining or anything, I just don't think I'm that interesting a person.”

“I think the complete opposite. I find you very interesting.” With a smile, he only glanced her way. “You're kind and caring, and bloody brilliant when it comes to technology. That's not even including how radiant you are. I'd decided that…well, I'd like to get to know you better outside of work.”

Minerva was stunned, her hands clutched tightly on her lap. “Wow. I-I’m flattered. I never knew you thought of me like that.”

“I can only assume you think rather highly of me as well,” he added. “After all, you did agree to dine with me.”

“Of course. You've been nothing short of sweet and helpful since I arrived. And honestly, I get chills every time you back those lawyers in a corner. You're really cool in the courtroom.”

Simon chuckled. “Ah, so you've seen me prosecute, have you?”

“Gah, forget I said that!” the woman cried, flustered to have blurted that out.

“Too late,” he teased with a laugh. “I heard it all. But try not to fret over it. It makes a man proud when a lovely lady shows interest in his work.”

They parked in front of Whet Soba where Simon, once again, got the door for Minerva and helped her out of the car. The little restaurant had an eastern flair to it, and it currently had quite a few customers. Simon led his date inside where the owner and head chef greeted him with a friendly wave. Despite often taking a seat at the bar to chat with the man, Simon picked out a quiet table by the windows away from most of the people.

“Is this table all right with you?” Simon asked, watching her sit before taking the seat across from her. “I just assumed you'd prefer a quieter spot.”

“Yes, it's fine.” Minerva smiled. “You’re right in your assumption.” Upon looking at the menu, Minerva was a little overwhelmed by the amount of options. “Goodness, there's more choices than I expected. I didn't know there were so many types of soba dishes.”

“Pick any you like. It's on me.”

After skimming the options, Minerva settled on a dish. The pair placed their orders. Their tea arrived swiftly though, so they at least had something to drink while they waited. Minerva was in the midst of taking a few sips when she realized Simon was gazing at her.

“What is it? Is there something on my face?”

The man chuckled. “No. I was merely admiring your beauty.”

“Simon, stop.” The woman looked away with a blush. “You keep saying that and…it makes me feel…weird.”

Simon's smile faded. “Why is that?” She didn't answer, but his astute observations of her expression and movements led him to a conclusion. “Is it perhaps…that you're not accustomed to compliments?”

“Compliments don't bother me,” she clarified. “I won every science fair for a reason. ‘Minerva’s so smart’ ‘Minerva gets straight A’s’ ‘Minerva will have a bright future'.” She shrugged at the imitations she tried to do. “I'm used to being top of the class.”

“But…?”

Minerva stared down at her lap, ashamed. “But brains don't make people like you. Nobody wanted to be friends with me. While the other girls were having fun shopping and going out with their boyfriends, I was alone, tinkering with my machines.”

“There's nothing wrong with that.” Simon's response made her look at him. “We're all different - unique. If it helps…” He sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. “I was a rebellious loner back in school. You wouldn't think that, looking at me now.”

“Not at all. I have a hard time even picturing it.”

Simon chuckled. “But it's true. We grow and change, and sometimes we're just naturally a bit different. It's what makes us shine as individuals. Besides, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, and I think you're the fairest of maidens.”

Minerva smiled, blushing at the compliment yet again. “Thanks. I…needed to hear that.” Their food was brought over, and the blonde wasted no time in slurping up some noodles in an effort to change the subject. “Whoa, that's delicious!” She licked the broth from her lips and greedily ate more.

Simon laughed lightly, though looked a little alarmed by the speed at which she ate. “Glad you like it. Just don't choke. Soba is best when you savor the flavors.” His words made Minerva slow down to properly enjoy the meal. His presence and the tasty dish steadily calmed her nerves. The date was going better than she thought it would, especially with Simon being such an honest gentleman. Once they finished their soba, Simon ordered dorayaki for a dessert. “I'm not wrong in thinking you've got a sweet tooth, am I?” he abruptly asked.

Minerva gave a soft giggle. “You're right. I love sweets. But how did you figure that out?”

“I've seen you snacking in the lab. It's almost always desserts.”

“So you've been watching me?” she questioned with a sly little smirk. “Even after you teased me for watching you work, you do the exact same thing.”

“Can you blame me? Your ingenious designs are incredible.”

They shared a laugh, and after a few minutes, their dorayaki arrived. They both reached for one of the pancake-like sandwiches, which caused their hands to meet. Like embarrassed children, they swiftly retracted their hands.

“Forgive me, ladies first,” Simon said.

“Thank you.” Minerva picked out a sandwich and bit into it, immediately tasting the red bean paste inside. “So tasty,” she murmured with a pleased hum.

Simon did the same and took a bite as well. “As they always are. I don't usually partake in sweet foods, but I find Japanese confections to be pleasing to my palette.” A moment of silence passed where they simply ate, until Simon decided to say something. “Minerva. What exactly are your plans for the future? I hope you don't mind me asking, I was merely curious. Do you plan on simply following in Aura's footsteps?”

“It's all right, I don't mind. And honestly, for the most part, pretty much. I've always liked building things. Machines and technology have always fascinated me. So when my aunt contacted me about a coworker who's a robotics engineer willing to mentor me, I knew that was the best path for me. What about you? Do you always plan on prosecuting?”

Simon nodded. “I do. That's why I hope Metis’s teachings in analytical psychology will help me in court. If I can master the technique of reading people's emotions and swaying their thoughts, it could make for a much easier road to the truth.”

“I see. That's quite the admirable goal. I'll be cheering you on, that's for sure. Meanwhile my main objective right now is to just help Athena with those headphones of hers. I'm so close to getting the new ones right…I think.”

“You care for Athena very much. It's sweet.”

“Of course. She's my cousin. Besides, I don't like seeing any kid looking that miserable and alone. Even family reunions were stressful for her.” Minerva sighed. “And I know Aunt Metis has been trying to help her, but I don't feel like…she's going about it the right way? I mean, surely she notices how sad Athena always seems, yet she does nothing to mend that. I don't blame her, she's not much of a people person by nature, but I do wish she'd at least try. For Athena.”

Simon nodded in agreement before sighing and running his hand through his hair. “How'd we get on such a serious topic? We're supposed to be enjoying the evening.”

“Sorry,” Minerva apologized, hanging her head. “I don't usually talk about myself too much, so I figured discussing other things would be easier. But you're right. This is supposed to be a date. We shouldn't even be thinking about things like that right now.”

Since he was finished eating, Simon reached into his pocket, discreetly sliding the little box out. “On a lighter subject, your birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks, correct?”

Minerva’s eyes widened in surprise. “It is. How'd you know?”

“Metis told me. And since you'll be nineteen soon, I got a little gift for the birthday girl.” He set the box on the table and slid it toward her. “It's nothing much. Just a little something I thought you'd like.”

Minerva took the box and opened it up, gasping when she found a necklace inside. The pendant was a silver outline of a fox, multiple tails fanned out behind it. Just above its head was a shimmering moonstone. She delicately took it out of the box, her fingers tracing the fox’s shape.

“Beautiful… Thank you so much, Simon!”

“You're very welcome. I know foxes are your favorite animal, so what better than the great nine-tailed fox of Japanese legend adorning your neck.”

With a delighted smile and a blush across her cheeks, Minerva took a moment to fasten it around her neck. The fox and moonstone sat comfortably against the top of her chest. The woman's gaze drifted from it back up to Simon.

“You know, you said you wanted to get to know me better, but I'd say you already know me quite well. Seems you've been very attentive to my words and actions since we met, unbeknownst to me.”

“Well, as I said, I find you interesting.” Simon, despite locking eyes with her, looked a bit flustered. “Something about you is just…appealing. I don't know how to really explain it.” He reached across the table to rest a hand over hers. “I'm…happy you agreed to come out with me tonight.”

Minerva smiled. “Me too. I'm glad you invited me. I haven't been on a date like this in…a long time.”

With their stomachs full, Simon paid for dinner, then proceeded to drive his date home. The drive itself seemed shorter than it should've been, and the pair only engaged in small talk about their interests. It was only once they arrived at the space center that they hesitated. They seemed to casually look up at the night sky to view the stars, both wanting to prolong their time together.

“The sky’s pretty tonight,” Minerva said, boldly slipping her hand into his. “Hard to imagine they'll be sending someone up there soon.”

Simon surprised her by giving her hand a light squeeze in return. “The HAT-1 launch. I hope to see it in person.”

“We should do that for our next date.”

The man nodded, glancing at her affectionately. “I'd like that.” He noticed her shiver, realizing that there was a cool breeze blowing. “Come on. Let's get you inside before you get too cold.” He gently pushed her into the building where he then, out of instinct, rubbed his hands along her arms to help warm her. “You all right? Warming up?”

Minerva watched him with wide eyes. He was right in front of her, running his hands up and down her arms. “Y-Yes, I'm okay. You don't have to do that.”

Simon froze momentarily, then abruptly pulled away. “Right. Sorry.”

Nervously, they boarded the elevator. Minerva stepped forward to push the button, but for some reason, the elevator seemed to jolt a little before ascending. It was just enough to make the woman stumble, and she fell back into Simon, who caught her with ease. His hands held her upper arms, and her back pressed against his chest. The close proximity made Minerva a flustered mess.

“Th-Thanks, Simon…”

“Don't mention it.”

Despite knowing she should, Minerva couldn't bring herself to move away from him. It felt nice being close to him like that. He apparently felt the same way because he made no move to release her or step back. So they stayed that way, with Simon growing comfortable enough to rest his chin atop her head, breathing in the flowery scent her shampoo left behind. Minerva, too, began to relax against him, though her heart was pounding in her chest, and she could feel his doing the same against her back. But the silence was killing her, and they were almost to the fifth floor already.

“Simon,” she murmured, just loud enough for him to hear. “Thank you for tonight, and for the pendant. I had a great time. I think I…really like spending time with you.”

“You're welcome,” he softly replied. “I'm glad to hear that because I really want to do this again. I enjoy your company very much.”

With a ding, the elevator stopped and the doors slid open. Finally, Minerva moved away from him, smiling softly. “I guess this is farewell…until we inevitably run into each other again tomorrow.”

Simon chuckled. “Right. Have a pleasant evening, Minerva.”

“You too, Simon.” The woman started to step out of the elevator, but paused to turn back toward him. Acting on a whim, she went back over, stood on her toes to reach him, and planted a kiss to his cheek. “Have a good night.”

Simon, whose face was nearly as red as hers, watched her with wide eyes. “Y-Yes. Goodnight.”

He managed to smile, letting her off the elevator before pushing the button to go back down. As soon as the doors closed, a pleased sigh left Simon and he traced his fingers over the spot she'd kissed. It wasn't like him at all, but he could hardly wait to take her out again. He'd always been diligent in his studies and work, so making time for someone else was a bit new for him. But oddly enough, he didn't mind it, in fact, he liked it. The upcoming HAT-1 launch would indeed be perfect for their next date. He could hardly wait.