Inviting Ren Home (2)

Kaworu swung the door open, clutching an umbrella.

The gardener, spotting Ren lingering just outside, tipped his umbrella slightly and remarked, "Well, if you're gonna stand there, might as well come inside."

Ren felt a warm sensation blush his ears as he took a step into a familiar courtyard, one he had often admired but never dared to walk into.

Inside the living room, Kestrel was perched by the window, waiting. She gave a casual wave, neither too warm nor distant, almost like they had only been apart for the bus ride days ago.

With a sly grin, Locky approached, handing Ren a hot cup of tea.

Without wasting a moment, Ren pulled out a neat box of chocolates from his backpack, placing it on the nearby side table as a token of appreciation. The box, ornate in design, bore hints of wear and tear, suggesting it had been in his possession for quite a while.