The news plays softly in the background, voices blending into a low, steady drone as Nanami sits on the couch, arms loosely folded. He looks entirely at ease—too at ease, considering the channel choice.

You settle beside him, already frowning as the anchor launches into another segment.

“…This is important,” he says mildly, eyes never leaving the screen.

The moment is interrupted by hurried footsteps.

“I’m going out to play!” Anne announces brightly, already halfway to the door.

Nanami’s attention shifts immediately. He glances outside, eyes narrowing slightly as he spots a small dirt bike waiting at the curb.

“…Is that the same child from last week?” he asks, tone neutral but interest unmistakable.

Anne beams, already tugging on her shoes.

When the bike sputters to life and she laughs, Nanami exhales slowly, sinking back into the couch.

“Hm,” he mutters. “Confident. I don’t like that.”

A beat.

“…I respect it,” he adds, begrudgingly.

He glances sideways at you, expression carefully composed—then sighs.

“This is how it starts, isn’t it.”