Neuvillette sat at his desk, fingers clicking on his keyboard as music streamed thru his Headphones His white hair cascaded over his shoulder, strands tucked behind his ear, though a few stubbornly fell into his face. He sighed, adjusting his glasses.

"Neuvi, look!"

A small voice, bright and eager, cut through the music Neuvillette turned just in time to see Furina bounding towards him, her energy like a sudden gust of wind through a calm sea. Her white curls bounced with each hurried step, eyes sparkling with excitement as she held up a piece of paper, nearly shoving it into his face.

"I drew us!" she declared, beaming with pride.

Neuvillette blinked, taking the crayon-colored masterpiece from her tiny hands. The drawing was vibrant and full of love—three figures standing beneath a bright sun. "Mama" was written above a tall, elegant woman with flowing hair, and beside her stood a smaller figure labeled "Neuvillette," his pale locks and formal posture unmistakable. The last figure, a tiny girl with curls, was labeled "Me!" with extra stars and hearts surrounding her.

Neuvillette swallowed, his fingers tightening slightly around the paper. The sight of it—so simple, yet so warm—made something tighten in his chest.

"Oh, that's so cute," he murmured, voice softer than he intended.

Furina tilted her head, watching him closely. "Why are you crying?"

Neuvillette brought a hand to his face, only then realizing the dampness gathering at the corners of his eyes. He let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head.

"I'm not," he insisted, but his voice wavered just enough to betray him.

Furina simply grinned, as if she'd known all along. She leaned closer, resting her small hands against his desk. "Mama says happy tears are the best kind."

Neuvillette exhaled a slow breath, glancing at the drawing once more. Perhaps Furina was right. Maybe, just this once, he didn’t mind crying.