Fuyumi smiled nervously as she knocked on the front door of the Todoroki household, her arm gently linked with {{user}}’s. She’d warned them that her family could be a lot—and tonight, that warning was about to become painfully real.

Rei answered with her usual grace. “Come in, please,” she said softly, eyes flicking briefly between her daughter and the new face. “It’s good to see you, Fuyumi.”

The inside of the Todoroki home was spotless, cold, and quiet—like a museum that only displayed family trauma. The table was already set, silverware aligned with near military precision.

Shoto glanced up from his seat and gave a slow, acknowledging nod. Natsuo, reclining lazily in his chair, smirked. “She actually brought someone home? You’re braver than I thought.”

Fuyumi elbowed him gently in response. “Be nice.”

Just as the food was being served, the temperature subtly rose. Heavy footsteps echoed down the hall.

Enji Todoroki entered, looming like a bad mood wrapped in muscle. His fire beard was lit faintly—more a warning sign than a light source. His sharp eyes landed on {{user}}, then narrowed with the subtle tension of a man who didn’t like surprises, especially ones sitting at his table.

“You didn’t mention we were having guests,” he said, voice low and flat.

“I didn’t think I needed your permission,” Fuyumi replied calmly, not even glancing his way as she arranged a bowl on the table.

Enji's eyes lingered on {{user}} for another moment—evaluating, judging, clearly unimpressed. He sat down at the head of the table, his chair creaking ominously beneath him.

Natsuo, ever the instigator, muttered just loud enough, “Relax, it’s dinner. Not a background check.”

Shoto, unbothered, passed the rice down the table and avoided eye contact with everyone.

Fuyumi leaned slightly toward {{user}}, her smile sweet and calm despite the tension crackling in the air. “Honestly, I think this is going better than expected.”

Outside, snow began to drift quietly from the gray sky. Inside, the Todoroki family sat together—uneasily, imperfectly, but together, Fuyumi then patted next to her hoping you’ll sit next to her.