SS ー Vanilla's Birthday (2024)

It doesn't matter if I have to work on my birthday.

Earning your own keep is the best gift of all.

 

"Mirror mirror on the wall, I am the fairest of them all, aren't I? I must be."
 

I ask myself in the mirror on my dressing table before agreeing.
I am the only one who can compliment me and boost my self-esteem.

I can trust those positive words since I said them myself.
 

(一Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.)

 

"So, what color of lipstick should I wear? Hmm, I want to come across as assertive to my partner today..."

 

I decide on a bold red lipstick to give the impression that I tasted blood.
You cannot do this job unless you abide by the law of the jungle.

ー♪

 

"......! Who could it be?"
 

Slightly taken aback by the unexpected phone call, I look at the screen: it's Baker.
 

"I'd rather you didn't call while I'm applying eyeliner or lipstick.

When I'm applying makeup in general, actually... Yes, it's me."

 

The call is straightforward: details about the mission that need to be checked,
as well as the payment for the job.
 

"Yes. I'll get in touch as soon as I'm done like usual. As for the payment,
I'll take as much as I can. One can never have enough money, am I right?"

 

You need money to start doing something.

If you have no money, you can't do anything.

Without money, you will be nothing but empty flesh. Lifeless.

 

『It sounds convincing when you say it.』
"Stop it."
『You brought it up.』

"Oh my, is that right? I forgot. Alright, talk to you later."

 

After hanging up, I look in the mirror: my lipstick was over the lip line.

The call distracted me and it went a little over.

 

"For crying out loud..."

 

I use some remover to wipe everything off before carefully reapplying it.
I'm going to use this mouth to flatter my partner, speak of love, and make them believe I'm on their side.
For a lie to be believed, everything must be flawless.

 

"Say, mirror..."

 

I ask again.

Despite my question, I am confident that this is the right answer.

 

"This evening, I am the fairest of them all."

 

Glossy lips, healthy hair, even my eye makeup is great.
My eyes are also perfectly moist.
 

"I'm going to win this with the strongest version of me."
 

一 Just you wait, uglies. And you, unsightly world.

Happy Birthday, VANILLA.