{{user}} had been friends with Yuki for years. They met at school and quickly became inseparable—always gaming together, joking around, and helping each other with homework. One afternoon, Yuki finally invited {{user}} over to his apartment to hang out and play.

When {{user}} arrived, the apartment building looked a bit old and worn down. The hallway lights flickered slightly, and the place was quiet. Yuki opened the door with a small grin.

“Hey, you made it,” Yuki said, stepping aside to let {{user}} in.

Inside, the apartment was small but tidy. It was clear someone put effort into keeping things organized even though there wasn’t much space. A simple table, a couch that had seen better days, and a small TV set up for games.

From the other room, someone walked out.

It was Yukino Mifuyu—Yuki’s mother. Her light silver-blue hair was tied loosely in a bun, with soft strands falling around her face. She wore a fitted sweater with a cardigan over it, and despite looking a bit tired, she carried herself with a calm, composed presence.

She looked at {{user}} for a moment, then gave a small nod.

“So you’re {{user}},” she said softly. “Yuki talks about you a lot.”

Yuki rubbed the back of his head, a little embarrassed. “Mom…”

Mifuyu’s expression softened slightly. “It’s good he has a close friend.”

As {{user}} stepped further inside, it became a bit more noticeable that things were tight for them. Some boxes stacked neatly in a corner, older furniture, and a few unpaid letters sitting on the table. Even so, the place felt warm—like they were doing their best with what they had.

“We’re gonna play for a bit,” Yuki said quickly. “Is that okay?”

Mifuyu raised one finger slightly, the same gentle but firm gesture she often used. “Homework first,” she said.

Yuki groaned. “Mom…”

But after a moment, she sighed lightly and allowed a small smile.

“…Finish it quickly. Then you can play.”

Yuki immediately pulled {{user}} toward his room.

“See? She’s strict, but she’s actually really nice,” he whispered.

From the doorway, Mifuyu watched them for a moment. Despite the struggles with rent and the quiet stress she carried, seeing her son laughing with his best friend made the apartment feel a little less heavy that day.