As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, Kane stirred awake, stretching languidly. The room was still, save for the gentle hum of the kitchen. The aroma of breakfast wafted through the air, a tantalizing promise of a new day. Kane's eyes fluttered open, and she glanced around, puzzled to find the absence of Hamiya's usual morning bustle.
She slipped out of bed, her curiosity piqued, and made her way to the kitchen. Her heart sank in surprise as she saw Hamiya standing at the stove, expertly flipping pancakes and arranging a spread of fresh fruit and steaming coffee.
"Oh, breakfast is ready," Hamiya announced with a warm, yet somewhat strained smile, her voice trembling slightly as she tried to maintain her composure.
Kane's eyes widened in surprise. "Grandma, you don't have to do this. You should get some rest, and I should be the one to do this for you."
Hamiya shook her head, her expression softening with a bittersweet resolve. "Well, it's the least I could do to repay for your kindness," she said, her voice cracking as tears began to well up in her eyes. They traced silent paths down her cheeks, mingling with the steam rising from the breakfast plates.
Kane moved closer, her heart aching at the sight of Hamiya's tear-streaked face. She gently took Hamiya's hands in her own, feeling the warmth and the unspoken weight of her gestures. The breakfast, though humble, was a testament to Hamiya's deep appreciation and the complex emotions hidden beneath her resilient exterior.
In that quiet, tender moment, Kane understood that this act of kindness was more than a meal—it was a bridge between their hearts, a small but significant token of the love and gratitude that bound them together.
As Kane and Hamiya finished their breakfast, the last remnants of their meal cleared from the table, Kane leaned back in her chair and stretched. "Hmm, by the way," she began, her tone casual but carrying a note of importance, "I'll be heading to work today. Just make yourself at home, okay? Don't worry about the chores; just get some rest. I'll be right back as soon as I can."
Hamiya nodded, her expression a blend of gratitude and acceptance. The warmth in her eyes spoke volumes about her appreciation for Kane's consideration.
Kane gathered her things, preparing to leave for the day. As she approached the door, Hamiya's voice called out softly, "Oh, please don't forget your lunch."
Kane stopped in her tracks, turning to see Hamiya holding out a neatly packed lunch. Her eyes widened in surprise. "You packed this for me?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Hamiya's face broke into a gentle smile. "Yes, I thought you might need it. I hope you like it."
Kane took the lunch bag with a mix of astonishment and heartfelt gratitude. "Thank you, grandma. I really appreciate it," she said, her eyes reflecting her sincerity.
As Kane stepped out into the morning light, the weight of the packed lunch in her hand felt like a symbol of the deep care and consideration Hamiya had poured into every aspect of their lives. It was a small but meaningful gesture that made Kane's heart swell with affection, reminding her of the bond they shared and the warmth of their mutual support.
Kane arrived at the station, a buoyant smile on her face and an inexplicable sense of fulfillment in her heart. The morning sun cast a warm glow over the bustling scene, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. The usual worries and stresses seemed to drift away, leaving behind a tranquil sense of contentment.
As she entered the station, one of her comrades, a cheerful colleague known for his perceptiveness, approached with a curious grin. "Hey, happy bud, why so happy?" he asked, his tone light and teasing.
Kane shrugged, her smile widening. "Well, I don't know. I just feel... really happy. Like everything's falling into place."
Her comrade's grin grew wider. "Well, good for you! Because we're being deployed to the squatter area today. I don't know what Mr. H is thinking—he wants to go back to the place where he was supposed to be assassinated. Guess he's feeling pretty confident with you around. He calls you his 'angel,' you know."
Kane's heart skipped a beat. The news was startling, and the mention of Mr. H's plans made her pulse quicken. She had heard whispers of the dangerous assignment but hadn't expected it to come so soon, nor with such personal stakes. Despite the initial shock, she couldn't help but be intrigued and somewhat reassured by the notion that Mr. H had such faith in her abilities.
"A… angel?" Kane echoed, more to herself than anyone else. She tried to wrap her mind around the gravity of the situation, but her comrade's casual demeanor made it seem almost surreal.
"Yep, that's what he calls you. He must believe in your skills—or maybe he just likes having you around," her comrade said with a wink. "Anyway, get ready. We're heading out soon."
Kane took a deep breath, her mind a whirl of emotions. The revelation about her deployment, combined with the surprising acknowledgment of her role as Mr. H's "angel," left her both astonished and resolutely determined. She stood amidst the hum of activity at the station, the weight of her responsibilities settling comfortably on her shoulders.
As she prepared for the deployment, Kane methodically checked her gear, her movements precise and deliberate. Each item she packed was a step closer to the reality of her mission. The usual sense of tension was tempered by an unexpected warmth—a comforting reminder that she was not only performing a duty but also being trusted and valued by those around her.
The camaraderie and faith placed in her were palpable, bolstering her confidence. The weight of her role felt lighter with the knowledge that she was seen as integral to the mission's success. It wasn't just about fulfilling a job; it was about rising to the occasion with the support of a team that believed in her.