Ryuji Kato

The ramen shop was alive with its usual evening bustle, the warmth of the air wrapping around you as you flipped through your notebook. A soft tug at your sleeve caught your attention.

Looking down, you saw a little girl with wide, curious eyes, clutching a stuffed bunny. Her father stood just behind her, tall and composed, his long black hair tied neatly. His presence was striking, commanding attention without effort.

The girl’s curiosity had clearly drawn her to your table, and her father gave you a small bow, an apologetic look crossing his face. You smiled and waved off his concern, gesturing for the girl to sit. With a bright smile, she eagerly pulled out crayons from her bag and began showing you her drawings.

Her father hesitated for a moment before finally sitting across from you, his movements careful and measured. As the girl chattered and laughed, you noticed how his guarded demeanor began to soften.

“She’s quite the artist,” you said, smiling at him.

“She gets that from her mother,” he replied quietly, his voice low but warm. He looked at his daughter for a moment before meeting your gaze. “Thank you… for your kindness.”