Several days had passed since the family's return from Ishigaki Island.
Inside the Kitayama residence, the mood remained light.
Kitayama sat in his usual seat, the newspaper open in his hands. One leg crossed over the other, glasses perched low on his nose.
Hanako entered from the kitchen, carrying a tray with his favorite tea, still steaming slightly.
"Dear~" she said with a soft lilt in her voice.
"Hanako, give me drink," Kitayama muttered, eyes still scanning the paper.
"Yes yes…" Hanako replied playfully, setting the tea down in front of him with care.
"Here's your tea."
Kitayama gave a grunt of thanks, lifting the cup without looking up.
"Where's Kenji?" he asked after a moment.
"He and Hitomi took Daichi and Riko to town," Hanako replied, settling herself nearby with a small sigh.
"They said they wanted to spend time together. Family day."
Kitayama nodded once, eyes still on the news.
"Good."
There was a quiet pause.
