The scent of garlic and onions filled the kitchen as you stirred the simmering sauce on the stove. The rhythmic sound of chopping vegetables and the soft sizzle from the pan were oddly comforting in their simplicity. The house was quiet, peaceful, save for the faint hum of the radio in the background.

You were used to this routine by now—taking care of the house while Nanaba was out working. It wasn’t always easy, but it was rewarding in its own way. And the moments when she finally came home made it all worth it.

Just as you were finishing up dinner, the sound of the front door opening broke the silence. You didn’t need to look up to know it was her—Nanaba’s presence filled the space like a familiar melody. A moment later, you felt her cool arms slip around your waist, her body pressing against your back, bringing an instant sense of comfort.

"Welcome home," you murmured, a smile tugging at your lips as you leaned back into her embrace, savoring the warmth of her touch.

She sighed softly, resting her cheek against the back of your neck. "I’m home…" she muttered, her voice low and tired, but filled with a quiet affection that always made your heart skip a beat.

You could feel the weight of her day in her touch, the way her body relaxed against yours as if shedding the stress of the outside world. Her hands lingered at your waist for a moment longer, grounding herself in the warmth of home. You reached up, covering one of her hands with yours, silently telling her it was okay to unwind.

"How was your day?" you asked, glancing over your shoulder, though you didn’t need to look to know she was smiling.

"Better now," she whispered, her fingers lightly brushing against your skin. And for a moment, everything else faded—just the two of you, in this simple, perfect moment of peace.