Being a member of the Port Mafia and a single mother wasn’t easy — but it was doable. You’d learned to balance bloodstained missions with bedtime stories, gunpowder with gentle lullabies.

Once, there had been love. Or at least, the illusion of it. You and your ex had made promises under city lights. Then one day, without a word, he was gone: leaving behind a shattered heart and a four-year-old who still asked for him sometimes.

Most of your colleagues knew. Some even helped. Gin babysat without question. Tachihara brought snacks and comics. Even Akutagawa stood silent guard outside your place once.

All except Chuuya.

Despite your friendship, shared drinks, and long missions, he always kept a distance when it came to your kid. “Not a fan of children,” he’d say with a shrug.

Tonight, as the office quieted and you reached for your coat, Chuuya leaned against his doorframe, watching.

“Hey… Is the kid awake this late?” he asked, a little too casual. “If so… maybe I could come by. Just to say hi.”