Kyouko smiled to herself, feeling a quiet thrill as she planned her next move. The movie premiere was set for 2 p.m. tomorrow, and everything seemed to align perfectly. Her husband would be at work, as usual, and Sayaka had a shift, leaving her and Haruki with a rare opportunity.

For now, she would play it cool, pretending she might ask her husband to join her. Glancing at the tickets, she held back the excitement simmering just beneath the surface. Tomorrow, she’d casually mention that her husband couldn’t make it and subtly hint, hoping Haruki would offer to accompany her. And if he didn’t, she’d nudge him in the right direction.

It wasn’t only about seeing a movie—it was about sharing a private moment with Haruki, a small secret between them. As she continued chatting with him, Kyouko kept the conversation light, her true intentions concealed.

Later that night, Kyouko, Haruki, and Sayaka sat together at the dinner table. Tonight was one of the rare evenings Sayaka didn’t have a shift, and she savored the chance to unwind with her husband. She leaned affectionately against Haruki, feeding him small bites of food. Kyouko observed them with a quiet smile, her thoughts wandering, yet still enjoying the moment. Sayaka, despite her playful mood, seemed a bit disappointed.

“I’m sorry, Haruki,” Sayaka whispered with a soft smile. “I’d love to make it up to you, but… my period just started today.”

Haruki returned her smile, his expression understanding. “It’s okay, Sayaka. Don’t worry about it,” he whispered, gently squeezing her hand under the table. He didn’t mind; they had plenty of time together.

Across the table, Kyouko noticed the tender exchange. She kept her face neutral, though something stirred inside her as she watched. Casually, she remarked, “Sayaka, your shift starts late tomorrow, doesn’t it?”

Sayaka nodded. “Yeah, I’ll be starting in the afternoon and probably won’t be back until late—maybe even midnight, depending.”

Kyouko silently took note of the timing. Tomorrow would indeed be her chance. She smiled inwardly, already thinking of ways to bring up the movie tickets without seeming too obvious. For now, though, she kept quiet and continued to enjoy dinner with them.

At midnight, after Haruki and Sayaka had gone to bed upstairs, Kyouko found herself once again waiting for her husband, who was likely out drinking with friends, as usual. It had become a routine she despised yet couldn’t escape. Every night, she stayed up, waiting for him to stumble home, reeking of alcohol.

She sighed, frustration washing over her. This wasn’t the life she had envisioned. Kyouko didn’t even feel like she was in a marriage anymore—more like a caretaker for a man who had long since stopped caring about anything beyond his drinks.

When he finally arrived, drunk as always, she did what she had grown accustomed to over the years. She helped him to bed, ensuring he wouldn’t fall or hurt himself, but there was no warmth in her actions. It was simply habit.

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After settling him, Kyouko laid out her own futon, far enough away that she didn’t have to smell the alcohol on his breath. She glanced at him, feeling only disdain for what their relationship had become. So-called husband, she thought bitterly.

As she lay down, Kyouko’s thoughts drifted away from him and toward Haruki—the way he had kissed her forehead last night, with a tenderness she had missed for so long. Her heart fluttered at the memory. She knew it was wrong, but the warmth she felt from Haruki was something she craved, a small joy just for her, even if it had to remain a secret.

With a sigh, Kyouko closed her eyes, clinging to the hope that Haruki would go to the movie with her tomorrow. That small hope eased her into sleep.

When Kyouko woke up, it was still dark outside, as it usually was when she began her day. She tidied her futon and glanced at her husband, sprawled out in a drunken slumber. Irritation simmered as she wondered, Did he even notice that she hadn’t been sleeping next to him anymore? It seemed he didn’t care—or worse, didn’t even notice.

Feeling exasperated, Kyouko grabbed her towel and headed to the bathroom to start her usual morning routine. After relieving herself, she stepped into the shower, letting the warm water wash away some of the frustration. The ritual helped—it was one small part of her life she could control, unlike her marriage.

Once she finished, Kyouko slipped into a modest dress and went straight to the kitchen. Breakfast had to be prepared, and she knew Haruki would be up soon, expecting his usual strong, hot black coffee. Over the past year, she had learned his preferences, noticing the details of how he liked his coffee and meals. Fulfilling these little needs gave her a sense of purpose, a satisfaction she allowed herself.

As she brewed the coffee, her thoughts drifted back to the days before Haruki had moved in. Life had felt empty then, with no one to care for but herself and a husband who was either absent or drunk. Her days had been filled with solitary routines, done only to fill the hours.

But now, things were different. Haruki’s presence in the house had brought a new energy, something she hadn’t realized she had been missing. She felt needed again, with someone who appreciated her efforts. Smiling to herself as she finished brewing the coffee, she looked forward to seeing Haruki’s face when he came down for breakfast.

As she moved around the kitchen, she noticed Haruki standing by the doorway, watching her quietly. She could feel his gaze on her, but she didn’t want to make him self-conscious. So, she kept working, preparing breakfast, allowing him to observe in silence. A small, knowing smile tugged at her lips. Keep looking, Haruki—I don’t mind. Enjoy the sight.

She continued to move gracefully, her actions deliberate yet casual, letting him watch without acknowledging his gaze. There was something thrilling about this silent understanding, unspoken but felt.

“Oh, Haruki, morning!” Kyouko greeted him with a warm smile, casually tying her hair into a high ponytail. She knew the effect this had on him—how he always seemed captivated by the simple gesture. Haruki’s gaze followed her hands as she gathered her hair, watching her create a style that made her look even more stunning.

He tried to respond, but his voice faltered. “Morning… Kyouko-san…” Haruki stuttered, trying to steady himself. His mind raced as he took in her beauty—her radiant smile, delicate features, and graceful curves, all highlighted by her effortless movements. Everything about her seemed perfect, and he couldn’t help but be mesmerized.

Kyouko noticed his reaction, the slight tremble in his voice, but she pretended not to. Smiling to herself, she continued setting the table, savoring the quiet satisfaction of knowing the subtle effect she had on him. She loved that she could make him feel this way without needing to say a word.

(End of chapter)