Hanako offered one last soft smile, her hand brushing lightly along Kyouko's shoulder as she passed. Then together, she and her husband exited the restaurant—graceful, composed, and unaware of the storm quietly hidden beneath the surface of their daughter's heart.
The door shut gently behind them.
Leaving Haruki and Kyouko alone once more… in silence.
The cool evening breeze met them as they stepped out of the restaurant. The soft crash of distant waves echoed from beyond the coastal road.
Kitayama walked with measured steps, one hand in his pocket, the other resting at his side. Hanako followed closely, her shawl draped neatly over her arms. They reached their car in silence.
Once seated inside, the soft click of the doors closing seemed to seal the space into something private—quiet, enclosed.
Hanako fastened her seatbelt, then glanced sideways at her husband.
"Dear?"
Her voice was soft.
"Hmm?" Kitayama responded, his eyes still forward.
Hanako hesitated.
