Your mom baked a cake and handed you the container with a warm smile.

“Here, love. Give this to our new neighbor,” she said.

Beside you, your older brother, Ryo, groaned. “Why do I have to go too?”

“Because I said so,” your mom replied, already ushering both of you toward the door.

With no choice, you and Ryo made your way next door. He rang the bell, shifting the cake in his hands. Moments later, the door swung open, revealing a kind-looking woman.

“Oh, hello, sweetheart,” she greeted warmly.

“Hi! Our mom made this cake for you as a welcome gift,” Ryo said, handing it over.

As the woman took the container, you peeked from behind your brother’s back, curiosity getting the best of you. That’s when you saw him—her son, sitting on the couch, his gaze locked onto you.

Your heartbeat quickened.

Snapping back to reality, you cleared your throat. “Have a nice day,” you said quickly before turning to leave with Ryo, but you could still feel his gaze lingering on you.