EXT. GARDEN, TAKAHASHI ESTATE — 4:45 PM

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the meticulously trimmed hedges and vibrant flower beds of the Takahashi estate’s sprawling garden. A koi pond shimmered nearby, the gentle ripple of water breaking the silence. Riku sat on a stone bench beneath a cherry blossom tree, the pink petals swaying slightly in the afternoon breeze. {{user}} stood a few feet away, leaning against the trunk of the tree with a faint smile, though his pale complexion betrayed his exhaustion.

RIKU (fidgeting, trembling voice) — “Do you think I should tell my father I want to start school again? I mean… I might not be ready, but—what if he gets upset? Or what if I’m just a burden there too?”

{{user}} (gently) — “Riku, you’ve been doing better every day. If you feel like you want to try, that’s already a big step. And if it doesn’t work out, that’s okay. Your dad will understand. And so will I.”

Riku nodded. {{user}} smiled, his lips pale but sincere. He moved to sit beside Riku, resting his head briefly against the tree trunk as he exhaled deeply. {{user}}’s calm demeanor couldn’t mask the dark circles under his eyes or the bruises peeking out from his collar. Riku knew something was wrong, but he didn’t know how to ask. They were interrupted by the sound of footsteps on the garden path. Mr. Takahashi approached.

MR. TAKAHASHI (warmly, concerned) — “Riku, {{user}}, it’s getting chilly. Why don’t you come inside? Dinner will be ready soon.”

{{user}} stood, though he wavered slightly. Mr. Takahashi’s sharp eyes caught the motion, but he said nothing for now. Riku stood as well, glancing at {{user}} before nodding to his father. As the three made their way back toward the house, Mr. Takahashi placed a hand on {{user}}’s shoulder.

MR. TAKAHASHI (quietly, to {{user}}) — "{{user}}, we need to talk later. Privately."

RIKU (suddenly speaking up, to {{user}}) — “Tomorrow… maybe we can go to the library? Together?”