Chapter 40: Parting Paths and Promises

The morning sun filtered softly through the blinds of Kaeya's expansive apartment, casting a warm glow over the living room. Haari lay in the guest room, still lost in a deep sleep, unaware of the day unfolding outside. Meanwhile, Kaeya was already up and about, her usual vibrant energy filling the space.

Kaeya entered the guest room with a determined stride, her bathrobe slightly askew from her hurried movements. She reached Haari’s bedside and gently tapped his face with her hand.

"Haari, hey, it’s morning already. Wake up," Kaeya said, her voice a blend of cheerfulness and urgency.

“Mmm,” Haari murmured, slowly stirring from his slumber.

“Wake up, it’s morning already,” Kaeya repeated, a bit louder this time.

Haari's eyes fluttered open, groggy and confused. “Hey, what are you doing here?”

“I’m here to wake you up,” Kaeya said with a playful smile.

“I can see that, but you know it’s not exactly polite to enter someone’s room without knocking,” Haari said, rubbing his eyes.

“What polite? We’re friends. You should know by now I don’t stand on ceremony,” Kaeya replied, her tone light but firm.

“Still, entering a man’s room without knocking—” Haari started.

“Hee, what’s this about a man’s room? What are you hiding?” Kaeya teased.

“And why are you still in your bathrobe? Did you sleep in it?” Haari asked, raising an eyebrow.

“No, I take it off before going to bed. I like to sleep without any…,” Kaeya said, her cheeks flushing slightly.

“That’s enough. No need to explain any further,” Haari said, a flush of color rising to his cheeks.

“Hee, what’s wrong? Don’t you want to know how—” Kaeya started again, but Haari interrupted.

“Kaeya, are you drunk? Because you don’t seem like to yourself right now,” Haari said, concern evident in his voice.

Stolen novel; please report.

“Wake up and wash yourself quickly. I’m making breakfast for us,” Kaeya said, heading out of the room with a laugh.

After a quick shower, Haari joined Kaeya at the dining table, where she had set up a modest breakfast. The aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air, making Haari’s stomach rumble.

“You can cook, Kaeya? I didn’t know that,” Haari remarked as he sat down.

“Heh, yeah. I learned it after I got this job. It’s a great way to unwind,” Kaeya said, a hint of pride in her voice.

“Didn’t expect you to be the domestic type,” Haari teased, looking at the spread of food.

“Well, life has a way of surprising us,” Kaeya said with a wink. “Plus, cooking is a nice break from all the high-stakes work.”

Kaeya placed a steaming plate of food in front of Haari. “Here, try it and tell me how it is.”

“Okay, thanks for the food,” Haari said, picking up his fork.

As Haari took a bite, his eyes widened in surprise. “Wow, this is delicious! You’ve really outdone yourself.”

“I’m glad you think so,” Kaeya said, looking pleased. “It’s one of my favorite recipes. Took me a while to perfect it.”

“So, do you ever take time off from work?” Haari asked, looking around at the sleek modern decor. “This place is impressive, but I bet it’s a lot of work.”

“It is, but it has its perks,” Kaeya said with a sigh. “I rarely get time off, but when I do, I try to enjoy it.”

“I can imagine,” Haari said. “It’s tough balancing work and life.”

“Exactly,” Kaeya said. “But I’m making it work. What about you? How’s your work going?”

“It’s been busy,” Haari said. “A lot of changes, but I’m managing. It’s a learning curve, but I’m adapting.”

“That’s the spirit,” Kaeya said. “Change can be tough, but it often brings growth.”

“True,” Haari agreed. “It’s good to know we’re both pushing through.”

After breakfast, Haari stood up, preparing to leave. “Thanks, Kaeya. I really enjoyed the breakfast.”

“Wait,” Kaeya said, hurrying to her bedroom.

Moments later, Kaeya emerged dressed for the day, looking effortlessly stylish. “Hmm, are you going somewhere?” Haari asked, noticing her new outfit.

“Yeah, I’m coming with you,” Kaeya said, grabbing her keys.

“What? You don’t have to come with me,” Haari protested.

“Don’t worry, it’s fine. I want to,” Kaeya insisted, her tone leaving no room for argument.

“Alright, if you say so,” Haari said, shrugging. “I appreciate the company.”

As they walked out of the apartment, Kaeya glanced at Haari with a mischievous grin. “So, what’s on the agenda today?”

“Just heading to the hotel. We’re meeting up with the others,” Haari replied.

“Sounds good. I’m up for a bit of socializing,” Kaeya said, falling into step beside him.

They arrived at the hotel, where Haari’s friends were waiting in the lobby. The atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and casual conversation.

“Hey, everyone,” Haari called out as he entered.

“Oh, you’re finally here, you're here to Yami-san” Oki exclaimed, looking up from his phone.

“Yeah, I came to escort you guys,” Kaeya confirmed, standing beside Haari.

Ashi’s eyes narrowed slightly in curiosity. “ Good morning Yami-San , it's good to see you again."

" Good morning, good see you again too Nicawa-San."

"Why didn’t you come back last night, Kichiro-san?” Ashi asked.

“Oh, we went to my place last night,” Kaeya said, casually waving off the question.

Ashi’s expression shifted from curiosity to mild surprise. “I see. Well, it’s good to have you here now.”

Oki glanced between Kaeya and Haari, a knowing look in his eyes. “Well, let’s get going then. We don’t want to be late.”

To be continue..........