__
The morning sky.
The air was still cold.
I walked beside Yuna.
The bag on my shoulder felt full.
Heavier than usual.
The straps dug slightly into my shoulder.
Yuna walked by my side.
Small steps.
But she didn't fall behind.
__
"Are you going to work again, Papa?"
"Yes."
"What time are you coming home later?"
"You came home really late last night."
I raised my hand.
Gently patted her head.
Her hair got a little messy.
"Maybe in the afternoon."
I paused for a moment.
"...maybe tonight."
I pulled my hand back.
"I don't know."
Yuna looked down slightly.
"...it depends on the situation."
"...oh..."
She lightly kicked a pebble on the road.
"Well..."
"...I'll have to cook for myself again..."
"Papa..."
"Hm."
"Can I eat noodles later?"
"Sure."
She turned to look at me immediately.
"...but only one."
"...yay."
Her voice was quiet.
But clear enough.
__
We kept walking.
The school gates came into view.
A few other kids were already going inside.
