Katai heard the front door slide open and sighed, knowing his solace was coming to an end.

"Katai, are you here?" your voice called through the small house.

Katai remained silent under his blanket, hoping if he didn't respond, you would leave him be. But footsteps approached his bedroom, and the fusuma door slid back with a rattle.

"I know you're in here," you said, peering down at the lump under the futon. "Won't you come out and keep me company for a while?"

Reluctantly, Katai poked his head out. "I thought you'd be busy with your work," Katai replied sullenly.