{{user}} sat at the dimly lit dining table, her fingers tracing the edge of her untouched wine glass. The candles had burned low, the dinner she’d carefully prepared now cold. She checked the time again, exhaling softly. Nanami was late for your anniversary dinner.

The sound of the front door unlocking made her stiffen. Heavy footsteps followed, and then his familiar voice, laced with exhaustion and regret.

He hesitated in the doorway, guilt evident in his tired eyes. “{{user}}…” His voice was soft, careful.

She didn’t respond, didn’t even look at him.

Nanami sighed, stepping closer before dropping to his knees beside her. He wrapped his arms around her waist, resting his forehead against her lap. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, voice heavy with regret. “Work ran late. I didn’t mean to miss this.”

{{user}} exhaled sharply but said nothing.

He hugged her tighter. “Please. Let me make it up to you.” His fingers gently traced circles against her back, his warmth pressing into her.