C49 A Fragile Haven

The low light of paper lanterns softened the edges of the living room. Kenji sat cross-legged on the tatami, pouring sake into small cups, while Aiko busied herself with setting out fresh pickles she had just made that morning.

Arun sat across from them, shoulders tight, his back against the wall as though part of him still expected to bolt at any moment. But the comfort of this place