2

Joichiro's eyes scanned the bustling mansion, his mother nowhere to be found amidst the flurry of maids and butlers. A deep voice interrupted his search.

"Master Joichiro, may I be of assistance?" The butler bowed deeply, his left hand respectfully resting on his chest.

"I'm looking for my mother," Joichiro replied, a hint of worry in his voice. "Do you know where she might be?"

The butler nodded, extending an arm towards a door leading to the back of the house. "The Lady of the house is in the garden."

Joichiro offered a grateful nod and a quiet "Thank you," then turned to Saya, a silent shadow at his side. Together, they stepped out of the mansion and into the sunlight, their footsteps echoing softly as they made their way towards the garden.

The garden was a sprawling tapestry of color, a symphony of blossoms in every hue imaginable. Sunlight filtered through the leafy canopy, casting dappled shadows on the meandering stone path that wound through the heart of this floral Eden. Each step Joichiro took along the uneven stones brought a sense of tranquility, a balm for his weary soul.

Pink, purple, yellow, and blue petals danced in the gentle breeze, their delicate beauty a stark contrast to the towering evergreen shrub that anchored one corner of the garden. Its bluish-green foliage seemed to whisper secrets to the sky, while the lawn beyond stretched out like a verdant sea, dotted with wildflowers that sparkled like jewels in the afternoon light.

At the center of this natural masterpiece, a gazebo beckoned with its double-roofed elegance. Sunlight gleamed off the decorative trim, while the open design invited visitors to rest on the built-in benches and lose themselves in the surrounding beauty.

Suddenly, the peace was shattered by a joyful cry. "Mom!" Saya's small hand slipped from Joichiro's grasp as she rushed towards her mother, who opened her arms wide with a radiant smile.

"My princess," Yuriko murmured, her fingers gently caressing her daughter's hair. "What a wonderful surprise to see you here."

"Mm, Nii-san said we can go get ice cream and wanted to ask if you want to go," Saya chirped, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Yuriko let out a joyful hum, her gaze lifting to find her son a few steps away. A warm chuckle escaped her lips as she beckoned him closer.

Joichiro, with a smile, closed the distance and was immediately enveloped in a loving embrace. The warmth of his mother's hug washed over him.

"Of course I'd love to come with my two adorable babies," Yuriko said, her voice filled with warmth as she scooped Saya up into her left arm and reached for Joichiro's hand with her right.

"Let's go!" Saya squealed, her tiny finger pointing excitedly towards the sky. Yuriko's chuckle echoed through the garden, and Joichiro's smile widened.