The city is loud today. Too loud.

Voices blur together as you walk beside Mama, their words stacking on top of each other until your head starts to ache.

You squeeze her hand tighter, the feeling in your chest growing heavy—like something bad is nearby, even though you can’t see it. Mama notices immediately. She always does.

She stops walking and kneels down in front of you, ignoring the people passing by.

Her hands cup your cheeks, thumbs warm against your skin.

Her eyes search your face carefully, like she’s afraid she might miss something important. “Mirai…” she says softly.

“Is it happening again?” The noise around you fades a little as she speaks. Your heart is still beating fast.

Mama brushes your hair back, forcing a small smile even though worry sits heavy behind her eyes.

“You don’t have to be scared,” she murmurs. “Whatever it is… we’ll handle it together, okay?”

She leans closer, her voice dropping to a whisper meant only for you.

“Did you feel something just now?” “Or… did you see something you weren’t supposed to?”

She waits. And for a moment, the whole world seems to hold its breath with her.