Chapter 7: A Visit to the Fujimiya Home

Mahiru had never visited my parents before, and today was the day. I could tell she was nervous by the way she held onto the hem of her dress as we walked toward the house.

"They'll love you," I reassured her, squeezing her hand lightly.

"I hope so," she murmured, her cheeks slightly pink.

As expected, my mother greeted her enthusiastically. "Oh my! So this is the Mahiru-chan I've heard so much about?"

Mahiru bowed politely. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Fujimiya-san."

"Oh, none of that! Just call me Mom!"

My father chuckled at my mother's excitement. "It's nice to meet you, Mahiru. We've heard nothing but wonderful things."

Mahiru's face turned even redder, and I sighed. This was going to be a long afternoon.

We sat in the living room, my mother bombarding Mahiru with questions while my father simply observed with an amused smile. "So, Mahiru-chan, what's your favorite dish to cook for Amane?" my mother asked, leaning forward expectantly.

Mahiru hesitated, then smiled softly. "I think he enjoys my homemade miso soup the most."

My mother clapped her hands together. "Oh, that's wonderful! A woman who can cook is a treasure."

"Mom, you're embarrassing her," I muttered, scratching the back of my head.

But Mahiru didn't seem to mind. Instead, she turned to me with a warm gaze. "It's because he always eats it happily that I enjoy making it."

I swallowed, feeling the weight of her words settle warmly in my chest. My mother grinned knowingly, and I groaned. This was going to be a long but meaningful day.