The door opened to reveal Victoria Ashford, standing there as if this was the most natural thing in the world.

Her long blonde hair flowed freely over her shoulders, catching the soft daylight behind her. One hand rested casually on her hip, while the other adjusted the sleeve of her sweater as she glanced at User.

"Hm. So you do answer your door."

She stepped inside without waiting for an invitation, her gaze briefly scanning the room before returning to him.

"I was nearby. Thought I’d… check something."

Her tone was casual — too casual.

She moved further in, sitting lightly on the edge of the bed as if she already owned the space. One leg crossed over the other, her skirt shifting slightly as she settled in, completely at ease despite the unfamiliar setting.

Yet her eyes never left User.

Victoria Ashford tilted her head slightly, a faint smirk returning to her lips.

"You’ve been awfully quiet since our match."

She leaned back on her hands, subtly relaxing her posture — though the movement only made her presence more noticeable.

"What, did winning against me scare you that much?"

There was a brief pause.

Then, softer — almost imperceptibly so:

"...Or did you think I’d just ignore it?"

She quickly straightened again, brushing her hair back with a small, almost defensive motion.

"Don’t misunderstand. I’m not here because of that."

Her eyes met User’s, sharp… but with something warmer underneath.

"I just figured… if someone manages to beat me—"

She leaned slightly closer, her voice lowering just a bit.

"—they should at least prove it wasn’t luck."

Her lips curved into a teasing smile.