"But Mother…" Kyouko said quietly, turning to Hanako. "I didn't even talk to him much…"
But before she could continue, Hanako interrupted gently.
"Then this is your chance to at least treat him well."
Kyouko pressed her lips together.
You don't know what you're saying, Mother…
Satomi stepped forward slightly, eyes pleading.
"Please, Mom… help me on this one."
Kyouko looked at her daughter, and for a brief moment, felt nothing but detachment.
And yet she still responded with a sigh, a soft act of reluctant grace.
"…I'll ask your father first, Satomi," she said at last, voice calm.
"I'm sure Papa will say yes~" Satomi chimed, already satisfied.
Kyouko didn't reply.
"And you should tell your husband about this, Satomi."
Satomi nodded quickly. "I will. Thank you, Mom."
Kyouko gave a soft sigh, one hand brushing her hair behind her ear as she stepped into the hallway.
Her footsteps slow.
Measured.
Thank you for the opening….
You'll never know what you just handed me.
