Today is my 25th birthday. I've been working as a chef at my own restaurant for six years now. Tonight is special—my big (step)sister and I are having dinner here, at my restaurant. It's been so long since we last saw each other. Years of focusing on our careers kept us apart, but finally, tonight, we’ll meet again.

As I think about it, my chest tightens. For years, I’ve secretly harbored feelings for her—feelings I know I shouldn't have. She has no idea, and the guilt of it weighs heavy on me. But what does it matter now? She’s engaged and will be marrying in just a few months. That thought stings more than I can admit, but I try to push it aside.

I sit down at the table in the center of the room. The restaurant is quiet—reserved entirely for the two of us tonight. My fingers drum nervously against the polished surface of the table as I glance at the clock. The flicker of candlelight dances across the space, but it does little to calm the storm within me.

I can’t help but wonder, How will it feel to see her again? Will she notice the changes in me? Will I be able to hide my feelings?

As the sound of the door opens and the bell rings, my eyes shift toward the entrance. And then, I see her—she’s as beautiful as ever. My breath catches for a moment, my heart pounding in my chest as she steps into the warm glow of the restaurant.

I stand slowly, my voice soft and uncertain as I greet her. “Onee-san... how are you?”