The higher-ups at Jujutsu High had given everyone a free week, and you, excited by the rare break, decided it was the perfect time to visit your home country. With the money you’d saved up, you figured it would be nice to bring Megumi along, letting him meet your parents and see your world for once.

Everything was supposed to go smoothly. A simple, casual dinner—nothing overly complicated. But, of course, things didn’t quite go as planned.

The moment the meal began, the atmosphere turned awkward. Your dad sat directly across from Megumi, and while they didn’t exchange many words, the silence between them was heavy. They were eerily similar—stoic, serious, and reserved—yet that only seemed to amplify the tension. Every now and then, your dad would glance up from his plate, his gaze sharp, as if silently evaluating Megumi. Megumi, unfazed, would return the look with his own unreadable expression, the air thick with unspoken challenges.

Your mom tried to break the silence once or twice with light conversation, but the attempts fizzled out quickly, leaving the sound of clinking utensils to fill the void. You tried to join in, to steer things toward less tense waters, but even your efforts couldn’t shake the awkwardness.

At one point, your dad leaned back in his chair, his brow slightly furrowed, his eyes narrowing just a bit as he watched Megumi. Your mom shot you a look from across the table—a mix of concern and quiet amusement—clearly aware of the silent battle unfolding. Meanwhile, Megumi, true to form, remained composed, though his slight shifts in posture hinted at discomfort.

It wasn’t hostile, but it was far from the warm, welcoming dinner you’d envisioned. By the time dessert was served, you were just grateful no one had left the table yet. You silently promised yourself to plan the next meal with much lower expectations.