The apartment was unusually quiet that morning. Aika Hoshino adjusted her oversized cardigan and poured tea into three delicate porcelain cups. Punch, curled like a loaf near the space heater, let out a small sigh, completely unbothered by the tense energy filling the room.
Riku Kazehaya glanced at the door for the fourth time in five minutes.
"Nervous?" Aika asked, sitting beside him on the couch.
"It's not every day your mother comes to visit after ten years," he replied, scratching the back of his head.
A knock.
Before either of them could rise, the door opened. Misaki Kazehaya entered like a winter breeze wrapped in grace — sleek black coat, pearl earrings, and presence that could silence a room. She paused, her sharp eyes studying the apartment. Then her expression softened.
"So this is the home you built, Riku," she said warmly. "Simple. Strong. Like your father."
Riku gave a half-smile. "Glad you approve."
Misaki turned her gaze to Aika. "You must be the reason he stayed grounded. Thank you."
Aika bowed politely, offering her a cup of tea. "I'm Aika Hoshino. It's an honor to meet you, Misaki-san."
"The pleasure is mine," Misaki replied. "You have sharp eyes. I like that."
As the conversation unfolded, Punch hopped into Misaki's lap, surprising everyone. Even she seemed slightly amused. "He has good instincts."
Then, another knock.
Before anyone could react, Rin stepped in without invitation, smiling sweetly.
"I heard Misaki-san was visiting. I thought I should say hello."
Misaki's polite mask held. "Rin. It's been a while."
Aika stood. "How thoughtful of you to invite yourself."
Rin walked past her, standing beside Riku with too much comfort. "We're childhood friends, remember? I think I deserve a seat at the table."
Misaki raised an eyebrow but said nothing. Riku sighed.
The next hour was a storm of subtle tension. Rin told nostalgic stories. Aika countered with recent memories. Misaki observed like a silent judge.
When tea ended, Misaki asked Riku to walk her to the car.
Outside, the wind bit sharper. Misaki paused.
"That Rin girl... she speaks like someone who sees you as a prize, not a partner. Be careful."
"I know, Mom. I love Aika."
She nodded. "Then make sure your past doesn't steal your future."
Back upstairs, Rin and Aika were alone.
Rin crossed her legs. "You know, you're just a detour. I was always his destination."
Aika didn't blink. She leaned in with a smirk. "If I'm the detour, then let's see if you can catch up."
Punch barked.