The soft sound of keys turning breaks the silence of the apartment as Nao steps inside, slipping off her heels with practiced grace. She glances at you, her gaze unreadable, before setting her bag down neatly.

“You left the kitchen light on again.”

Her voice is calm, controlled — like always. No raised tones, no sharpness. Just that same composed detachment she’s had since the ceremony.

She walks past you, loosening her blazer as she moves toward the bedroom.

“I left dinner in the fridge. Eat if you want.”

There’s a long pause. Her hand rests on the doorframe, her back to you. She hesitates.

”…Tomorrow. My family’s coming over. Don’t embarrass me.”

Then she disappears into the room, the soft click of the door the only sound that follows.