𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 | 𝐊. 𝐊𝐄𝐍𝐌𝐀

# eighteen

#18 | MOTHER-DAUGHTER QUALITY TIME...?

The neon-lit streets of Tokyo whizzed by as Rin drove, one hand on the wheel and the other casually drumming along to the beat of the music playing softly in the background. The evening sky was painted in hues of orange and pink, with the city coming alive in its usual bustling fashion. You leaned back in the passenger seat, feeling the subtle vibrations of the car as you and Rin exchanged playful banter.

"Okay, so spill—any updates from your fans?" Rin asked with a grin, her eyes momentarily flicking from the road to you.

You smirked, knowing exactly where she was going with this. "If by 'updates' you mean my fans begging me to collab with Kenma, then yes, plenty."

Rin let out a laugh. "You mean they're not shipping you two yet? I'm shocked."

You rolled your eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at your lips. "They're convinced we're secretly dating or something. It's ridiculous."

Rin shook her head, her grin widening. "Well, you can't blame them. You two do have some serious chemistry, whether you want to admit it or not."

"Chemistry?" You scoffed. "More like a history of mutual annoyance."

Rin chuckled, taking a right turn. "Come on, Y/n. You can't deny the guy has grown on you. Remember when you used to curse his existence every time he came up in conversation?"

You sighed dramatically. "Okay, maybe I've mellowed out a bit, but that doesn't mean anything. We're just friends now, and that's it."

"Uh-huh," Rin said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "And I'm just a barista with no social life outside of work."

You both laughed at that, the tension easing as the familiar neighborhood of your childhood home came into view. It wasn't long before Rin pulled into your mother's driveway, the car coming to a gentle stop.

The house looked just as it always did—inviting, with its cozy, well-maintained appearance. The front porch light was already on, casting a warm glow over the flower beds. It was a sight that always brought a mix of emotions, but tonight, you felt a sense of calm.

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You rang the doorbell, the bag of chocolates you'd picked up earlier dangling from your hand. The door opened almost immediately, and there was your mother, her face lighting up with joy. But before you could even greet her, she was already reaching out for Rin.

"Rin, my darling! It's so good to see you!" your mother exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug.

You stood there, pretending to be offended. "Um, hi, Mom? I'm here too, you know."

Your mother waved a dismissive hand, her attention still fully on Rin. "Yes, yes, I see you, Y/n. But it's been ages since I last saw Rin. How have you been, dear?"

Rin grinned, returning the hug with equal enthusiasm. "I've been good, Mrs. L/n. Busy with work at the café, but good."

Your mother finally turned to you, giving you a quick hug. "And how's my other child?" she teased, her eyes twinkling.

You handed her the chocolates, rolling your eyes. "I'm fine, Mom. Here, I brought you these."

She took the bag with a grateful smile. "You always know how to make your mother happy. Come in, come in, both of you!"

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The living room was just as you remembered it, filled with warm, familiar scents and the comforting sight of old family photos lining the walls. You settled into your usual spot on the well-worn armchair while Rin and your mother made themselves comfortable on the couch.