"Daddy!"
"Nina, have you been crying because you missed me?"
When I ran over, Dad hugged me with a smile. I felt a bit embarrassed with Itsuki there—I wished he wouldn't, but at the same time, his hug filled me with so much joy and relief that I couldn't help but smile.
For some reason, it felt like years since I'd last seen him, and suddenly, tears welled up in my eyes.
"Oh wow, you really did miss your old man, huh? Itsuki's watching, you know?"
"Geez!"
I playfully slapped his shoulder, and there was that solid, strong muscle I remembered so well.
For a moment, I just wanted to stay close, but I gently pulled away after a bit. I didn't want Itsuki to feel left out.
Still, even after I stepped back, Dad wiped away my tears.
"Hey, it's your one Sunday with me this week. Wouldn't want to waste it crying, would you?"
All I could do was nod, but only Dad would say something like that, and it made me smile.
