Chapter 26
Dinner at the Katsuragi household was always a comforting routine, the kind that grounded even the most chaotic days. The dining room was warmly lit, with soft amber hues casting long shadows over the steaming dishes laid out on the polished wooden table. Tonight’s meal, lovingly prepared by their mother, was a spread of grilled fish, tamagoyaki, pickled vegetables, and miso soup with seaweed and tofu—a simple but hearty meal.
Kokoro sat across from his mother, Eniko, wore a gentle and teasing smile at the dinner table. Next to Kokoro was his ever-energetic little sister, Yui, who was already stuffing her cheeks with rice like a chipmunk.
"You look tired, big bro," Yui said, pausing mid-bite to inspect his face. Her eyes sparkled with playful mischief. "Or maybe you’re lovesick?"
Kokoro coughed and quickly brought a cup of tea to his lips. "Don’t be ridiculous. I’m just tired from club activities."
"Club activities, huh?" Yui narrowed her eyes as if inspecting a criminal. "Was that with the pink-haired senpai you’ve been talking about lately?"
Eniko raised an eyebrow with a smile as she refilled his soup. "Pink-haired senpai? Should I be worried?"
"You shouldn’t be listening to this gremlin," Kokoro grumbled, reaching over to ruffle Yui’s hair.
She swatted his hand away, laughing. "Admit it! You’re getting popular, big brother! First Mika-senpai, now Sayuri-senpai... you’re on a roll!"
Eniko chuckled but gave him a curious look. "Still, I’m glad you’re making friends. You’ve always been a bit reserved."
After some more light teasing and warm conversation, Kokoro retreated upstairs to his room. The soft thump of his footsteps against the carpeted stairs was familiar, almost rhythmic. When he opened the door, the familiar scent of old books, ink, and a faint hint of citrus greeted him.
His room was a reflection of himself. Posters of various anime adorned one wall, while another was dedicated to shelves stacked with manga, light novels, and a few prized figurines—mostly female characters in detailed outfits. His desk was neatly arranged, with a large monitor and a sleek drawing tablet beside it. A cup still stained with remnants of coffee sat at the edge.