The car slowed to a stop, the soft hum of the engine fading beneath the sound of waves nearby.
Kyouko gently parked the car just beside the house, the ocean breeze lightly brushing her cheeks as she turned off the engine.
Haruki stepped out from the passenger seat and walked around to the trunk as Kyouko tapped the switch to unlock it.
With practiced ease, Haruki lifted her travel luggage, and headed toward the front door.
Kyouko stepped out more slowly, carrying the grocery bags she'd picked up along the way. She moved with grace, her pace unhurried, eyes soft as she looked at the simple seaside home.
Haruki unlocked the door and stepped inside, setting her luggage gently by the entrance.
But when he turned back to look, he paused.
Kyouko was standing at the threshold, not moving yet.
Both hands folded gently in front of her.
Her eyes warm.
Her smile serene.
"Why are you standing there like that?" Haruki asked with a soft chuckle, stepping back toward the doorway.
