"Hah!" Kitayama suddenly brightened, eyes lighting up as he looked toward the hallway. "There's my city girl!"
Kyouko stepped into the room gracefully, dressed in a soft-colored kimono that shimmered under the warm light. Her hair was neatly tied up, framing her gentle face. She gave a small bow to the room, serene and elegant as always.
"Now come here," Kitayama grinned, slapping the cushion beside Haruki. "Sit down and pour Haruki a drink!"
"Yes, Father," Kyouko said softly, her voice calm, her smile modest.
She moved quietly to Haruki's side and knelt, sitting with practiced grace.
As she reached for the sake bottle, Haruki glanced at her, his breath catching for a moment.
Beautiful.
Too beautiful.
She poured carefully into his cup, and when their hands brushed, she whispered without turning:
"…Sorry for the wait."
Haruki, still holding the cup, whispered back:
"I've been waiting just for this."
