A Welcome, Apologies, and Fatigue

The front door stands before Kai, and he presses the doorbell, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

The door swings open, revealing his younger sister, Maya, her eyes widening in surprise at his unexpected arrival.

"Kai! I didn't know you were coming today!" Maya exclaims, her eyes sparkling with delight. She quickly adds, "Congratulations on winning the competition!"

And then she bombards him with a flurry of questions, her curiosity overflowing.

Kai chuckles, trying to catch his breath. "Hold on, Maya. Let me come inside first," he replies, a smile tugging at his lips.

Realizing Kai is still standing outside, Maya steps aside, allowing him to enter.

As he steps over the threshold, Maya leans closer and whispers in his ear, "Hey, be careful. Mom's really angry with you."

Surprised, Kai whispers back, "Why? What did I do?" His mind races, trying to recall any mischiefs he might have committed.

Maya gives him a doubtful expression. "In case you've forgotten let me jog your memory. You didn't reach out to us all while you were there. Mom was incredibly worried, about you. Now she's absolutely furious."

Kai's face falls as he realizes his mistake. He can't believe he has forgotten to call his mom even once. Searching for an excuse, he musters, "I am so busy the whole time. Exhausted, I fall asleep early every night. I'm sorry."

Maya's suspicion was evident as she narrowed her eyes. "You don't have to apologize to me. You owe Mom an apology. You'll have to handle this on your own."

Saying so she quickly leaves the room wanting to avoid any consequences that may follow.

----------

Kai walks into the living room to find his mom completely absorbed in a television show.

Approaching her with a smile he softly greets (＾▽＾), "Hey, Mom."

His mom glances at him her expression showing a mix of annoyance and relief ヽ(｀Д´)ﾉ. "Ah so you finally decided to grace us with your presence," she says sarcastically, her tone betraying a hint of amusement.

Kai's smile fades, as he looks somewhat sheepish(｡•́︿•̀｡). "I'm sorry," he says regretfully. "I should have given you a call. I've been so caught up in the competition. I got exhausted and directly went to bed every night."

His mother's initial anger starts to soften. A mixture of concern and understanding replaces it.

"It's okay no need to apologize " she responds in a tone. "But next time, remember to inform us about your safety time. You know I worry about you."

Kai lowers his gaze his eyes fixed on the floor (._.). "I understand, Mom. I'm sorry. I never intended to make you worry."

His mother lets out a sigh her anger dissipating as she recognizes his remorse. "Alright I'll forgive you this time " she admits.

"By the way congratulations, on winning the competition. We watch your matches. It fills us with pride."

Kai's eyes widen in surprise. "Really? You watch the matches?" he asks, a mix of joy and disbelief in his voice.

His mom nods, a warm smile gracing her face. "Yes, we do. Maya is watching before you come home," she explains.

"But as soon as she sees you arrive, she quickly changes the channel just now."

Kai's attention turns to the television, where a replay of the broadcasted match plays. As he watches, he notices that some of his more intense fights are bypassed.

He realizes that his family hasn't seen the moments, where he delivers critical blows or even ends his opponents' lives.

A mixture of relief and guilt washes over him.

It is for the best that his family remains unaware of the brutality he witnesses and inflicts. Some things are better left unspoken.

His mother observes the look, in his eyes and frowns slightly displaying her concern. "What's wrong Kai?" she asks, her voice filled with care.

Kai snaps back, to reality a smile appearing on his face. "Oh, it's nothing. Just feeling really tired " he responds, attempting to brush off the weight of his thoughts.

His mom gets up from the couch clearly worried. "You should go to your room. Take a rest. And Before you do that would you like something to eat?"

Kai shakes his head, his appetite temporarily forgotten. "No, thanks, Mom. I am not hungry right now," he declines with gratitude.

"Alright,. Make sure to take care of yourself and get some rest, my dear. We can catch up later " she says, her voice emitting a warmth of affection.

Kai acknowledges with a nod feeling a soothing sense of reassurance wash, over him.

After exchanging a glance with his mom he heads towards his room. Collapses onto his bed finally surrendering to the overwhelming exhaustion that has gripped him throughout the day.

As sleep gradually engulfs him he remains unchanged in his attire drifting into a tranquil slumber.