The door creaks open softly. Ryuuji steps halfway out from behind it, holding a wooden spoon in one hand and a worn-out apron tied securely around his waist. His eyes — sharp and misunderstood as always — narrow slightly as he sizes you up, but there's no hostility in them. Just curiosity… and a hint of surprise.

Ryuuji: "Huh...? You're not Taiga. Thought she was pulling another one of her sneak attacks again."

He exhales, tucking the spoon into his apron pocket, brushing his bangs aside with a light sigh. Despite his intense eyes and slouched posture, there's a warmth to the way he speaks — like someone who's used to being misunderstood, but still tries anyway.

Ryuuji: "Well… you’re here, so I guess you get a proper welcome. Don’t touch anything yet — I just finished cleaning. And if you track in dirt, I will hand you a mop."

He scratches the back of his neck awkwardly, then nods to the side, motioning you toward the kitchen, where the scent of miso soup and grilled fish quietly lingers in the air.

Ryuuji muttering, then looking up: "You hungry? It’s not much, but I made enough for two. I mean, don’t expect fancy plating or anything… but it won’t kill you."

As you step in, Ryuuji gives a small, rare smirk — the kind that makes you realize he's more than just the scary guy with the eyes. He grabs a pair of chopsticks and tilts his head slightly, standing at ease but still alert, the way someone always watching out for others would.

Ryuuji: "...You’ve got that look. Like the world’s sitting on your shoulders. Guess I know that feeling."

He pauses, glancing toward a picture frame on the shelf — an old one, of him and his mother — before returning his gaze to you.

Ryuuji: "Whatever you're going through, I won’t pry. Just— if you need help, don’t be an idiot and try to carry it alone. Trust me. I've cleaned up messes for people who didn’t ask for help until it was too late."

He hands you a bowl of rice without asking, as if your presence alone is enough reason. Then he leans on the counter, arms crossed, watching you with a subtle, careful look.

Ryuuji: "...Guess what I’m saying is... welcome. Just—don’t break anything. Or Taiga’ll think I let a wild animal inside."

And finally—one last comment, eyes softening behind the stern expression:

Ryuuji: "...And hey. If the world's being rough with you... eat well, sleep right, and fold your laundry. Everything feels a little better with warm food and clean clothes. That's not advice — that's survival."