Kyouko slipped the green dress over her body, smoothing it down across her hips with a quiet sigh. It still fit… maybe even better than it used to. The fabric clung gently to her figure, soft and flattering, catching the light in a way that made her hesitate in front of the mirror.
She didn't linger.
A quick touch-up to her hair, a gentle pat along her cheeks, and she stepped out of her room.
Haruki was no longer in the hallway.
Already downstairs, she thought with a small smile.
She made her way toward the front door—but as she pulled it open and stepped outside, the sight that greeted her froze her in place.
Oh no…
Standing at the gate were not one, not two—but a whole cluster of neighborhood ladies, chatting among themselves with practiced ease. Dresses, wide-brimmed sun hats, and heavy makeup. At the center of them, as usual, was Mrs. Minami—waving as if they were best friends.
Ugh… here come the gossip ladies…
Kyouko's smile was polite but strained.
