Part 2 — Inside the House & Dinner Rules Begin
"Let's go inside."
The moment she opened the door, Kaito slipped past her and rushed in.
"Hurry up!"
Haruto shook his head.
"You're acting like you haven't eaten in a week."
"I haven't."
"You had breakfast."
"That was a different era."
"A different era?"
"Yes."
Ayame sighed.
Sometimes she wondered how Kaito managed to say things with complete confidence despite making absolutely no sense.
The three siblings stepped inside and removed their shoes.
The house was quiet.
Peaceful.
For the first time all day, it felt like they could relax.
Ayame carried the parcel toward the table and carefully set it down.
Kaito was already sitting nearby, staring at it.
Waiting.
Patiently.
For almost three seconds.
"Can we open it now?"
"No."
"Why?"
"Wash your hands first."
Kaito stared at her.
Ayame stared back.
A few moments later, Kaito stood up and walked toward the sink.
Haruto smirked.
"Defeated."
"I chose to retreat."
"That's still losing."
"It isn't."
Their voices echoed softly through the house as another ordinary evening began.
Ayame finished setting the food onto the table while Kaito practically vibrated in his seat.
The moment the last container was opened, the smell filled the room.
Kaito's eyes sparkled.
"Finally."
Haruto glanced at the food before standing up.
"You guys start eating. I'll join once I'm back from bathing."
Ayame looked over her shoulder.
"Don't take too long. I need to go after you."
Haruto paused.
"How long?"
"Five minutes."
"Five minutes?"
"Yes."
Haruto stared at her.
"That's barely enough time."
"Then stop talking and go already."