Family and Secrets ( 165 )

Kyouko reached for her purse, the phone still vibrating softly.

She checked the screen.

Satomi — video call.

She glanced across the table.

Haruki had just stood, politely excusing himself as he made his way toward the restroom.

Kyouko sighed quietly.

Then pressed accept.

The screen lit up.

Satomi's face appeared.

But her tone was sharp.

"Mom! Where's Haruki? I've called him several times—he's not picking up! Maybe he's with another woman?"

Kyouko's expression didn't shift.

She smiled—graceful, composed, calm.

"Calm down, Satomi. He probably just went to the toilet."

Her voice was soft, steady.

Unshaken.

"Besides… he's with us right now."

A pause.

"With who?"

"Your grandparents," Kyouko replied gently, eyes flicking to the side where Hanako and Keiko sat, deep in quiet conversation.

"Your aunt, your uncle… everyone."

Satomi sighed, relieve.