The countryside breeze greeted Kyle and Mayu as they stepped off the train. The familiar sights of Kyle's hometown surrounded them, and the peaceful atmosphere settled over Mayu, who clung nervously to her bag. Kyle shot her a small smile, squeezing her hand gently as they walked toward his home.
"Are you ready?" Kyle asked, sensing Mayu's nervousness.
Mayu nodded but couldn't stop the butterflies in her stomach. After all, this wasn't the first time she was meeting Kyle's mom—she had already experienced the awkwardness of being caught in Kyle's room during that embarrassing moment
Just as they approached the front door, it flung open. Kyle's mother rushed out with a bright smile.
"Mayu!" she called out before grabbing Mayu's hands and pulling her into a big hug. "It's so good to see you again! You didn't think I'd forget the girl who almost made me spill my tea, did you?" she teased playfully, referring to the moment she had interrupted them back in Kyle's room.
Mayu flushed with embarrassment, recalling the incident, but she smiled shyly. "Mrs. Harada, it's so nice to see you again. Thank you for having me…"
"Nonsense! And how many times do I have to tell you? Call me Mom!" Kyle's mother winked at Mayu before pulling her closer, completely ignoring Kyle, who stood there chuckling. "I've been waiting to see you two. Come inside! I've already started cooking your favorite dishes, Kyle!"
Kyle's father soon appeared at the door, offering a more subdued but warm greeting. "Welcome back, son. And welcome, Mayu."
Kyle scratched the back of his head. "Thanks, Dad. Glad to be back."
As they stepped inside, Kyle's mother fussed over Mayu, showering her with compliments and asking how she'd been since they last met. Mayu, still blushing from the earlier hug, gradually felt more at ease. Kyle's mom, though energetic, was kind and made her feel like part of the family right away.
"So, Mayu, how's my Kyle been treating you? Still acting like a shy boy around you?" his mom asked with a playful grin.
Kyle groaned. "Mom…"
But Mayu laughed, easing into the warmth of the moment. "He's been... wonderful," she admitted softly, her eyes meeting Kyle's.
Kyle's mother smiled knowingly, sensing the affection between them. "Good. You two are perfect for each other. Now sit down and make yourselves at home!"