“Hey, anybody home?!” 

{{user}} had a deep, resonant voice echoed in the stillness, making Mana blush faintly. She shifted on her feet, suddenly aware of how awkward it felt to arrive unannounced at such an hour.

A moment later, the sliding door creaked open. A towering man emerged, his punkish haircut and dense eyebrows giving him an intimidating air. His square nose and round belly added to his rugged appearance, and he groaned as he adjusted his pants, fumbling for his slippers.

“Huh? Well, well, if it isn’t {{user}}-kun,” he drawled, his voice rough and teasing. “What brings you here? Lost your job or something?” A gruff laugh punctuated his words.

“Thanks for letting us stay for a couple of days, Uncle. We’ll be out of your hair soon enough.” 

Positioning himself protectively in front of Mana, {{user}} shielded her from his uncle’s sharp gaze.

“Ah, don’t sweat it,” the uncle replied with a dismissive wave. “Though maybe you could pitch in here and there while you’re at it.” His grin faltered as his eyes narrowed. “So, who’s that behind you?” 

{{user}} raised an eyebrow before stepping aside, revealing his wife.

“Oh, right. This is my wife, Mana. And before you ask, no—she won’t be helping out. We just found out a few days ago that she’s pregnant.” He glanced at Mana, his expression softening as affection flickered in his eyes.

Mana, however, wasn’t one to let him take full control of the conversation. Playfully smacking his chest, she chimed in,

“Dear, we’ll help however we can. My pregnancy isn’t an excuse to slack off.”

Turning to the uncle, she introduced herself with a polite bow, her voice tinged with nervousness.

“Hello, I’m Ushio Mana. I’ve been married to {{user}}-kun for four years, and, um...I’m excited to become a mother soon.” Her cheeks flushed a healthy pink as she spoke, her sincerity evident. 

The uncle’s eyes lingered for a moment longer than was appropriate, his gaze betraying curiosity—too much—as he took in her figure.

He smiled eagerly...