After that night, I found myself taking cooking more seriously. It wasn’t just about making meals anymore—I wanted to be good at it. I started spending my weekends trying out new recipes from the internet, experimenting with different flavors, and even adjusting dishes to my own taste.
One day at work, Ruka and Miko told me about their cooking community, a group of chefs and home cooks who shared tips, recipes, and even held small competitions. It sounded exciting, so I decided to join. Cooking had become something I truly enjoyed, and I wanted to get better at it.
Today, the community was hosting a special showcase featuring a professional chef, a friend of Ruka’s. I told Rin about it during breakfast, mentioning that I’d be going with my coworkers.
"That sounds fun! Can I come too?" Rin asked, her eyes lighting up.
I hesitated. "I’d love for you to come, but I think it might be weird since Keiko isn’t here. I can't tell them what our relationship is, Rin."
Rin nodded in understanding. "Yeah, that makes sense. No worries."
"Sorry about dinner tonight, though. I won’t be home in time to cook."
She grinned. "It’s fine! I’ll survive one night without your cooking."
I laughed at her playful tone. Seeing her so comfortable with me now—it made me realize how much our relationship had changed.
---
That evening, I arrived at the venue with Ruka, Miko, and Aki. The showcase had already started, and we missed the first thirty minutes.
"Too bad we’re late," Aki muttered as we found seats.
"Yeah, but we’re here now," I said, already captivated by what I saw on stage.
The chef moved with precision and confidence, her hands swift and graceful as she plated each dish like a work of art. The way she handled ingredients, the way she controlled the heat, the way she poured her passion into every movement—it was mesmerizing.
For the first time in my life, I felt a strong pull toward something. My heart pounded with excitement.
Ruka and Miko, meanwhile, were greeting some familiar faces. I tagged along, hoping to make some connections. They were kind enough to introduce me and Aki to their chef friends, and I quickly realized I was the only one without formal culinary experience.
Even so, they welcomed me warmly.
After the showcase ended, Ruka introduced us to her friend—the chef who had just performed. She was the owner of a five-star Japanese restaurant called Sushi Go! and had built a reputation as one of the best in the industry.
I was in awe. Just standing in front of her, shaking her hand, made my palms sweat.
That night, as I walked home, I felt something different in my chest. Excitement. Passion. Purpose.
Maybe it wasn’t too late for me to start something new after all.
---
At home, Rin was waiting for me, sitting on the couch with her legs tucked under her.
"How was it?" she asked the moment I walked in.
I chuckled, surprised at how eager she seemed. "You’re really curious about my cooking stuff now, huh? Are you interested in learning too?” I asked playfully.
She quickly shook her head. “Nah… I just like it when you make delicious food for me,” she admitted with a small grin.
I chuckled at her honesty. “I see,” I said. “Then, what are you interested in?”
For a moment, she hesitated, as if unsure whether to share her thoughts. I smiled reassuringly. “You know, I only just discovered my passion at this age. There’s no shame in finding what truly excites you, no matter what it is or when it happens.”
She seemed to take my words to heart before finally mumbling, “Makeup.”
So that’s what had caught her attention at the mall that day.
I nodded in understanding. “That’s nice,” I said warmly. “But I’m sorry, Rin. I don’t know much about makeup, though.”
She let out a small laugh. “Of course, Dad. If you knew more than me, I’d be really surprised.”
I laughed along with her. “Well, good luck, then. If you ever need any help, just let me know.”
She nodded, her expression soft and content.
At that moment, I realized just how much she had opened up to me. Our relationship had truly grown, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude. I promised myself that no matter what, I would continue to support and protect Rin and Keiko, always.
---
Finally. It was 5 November 2025.
Today was the day.
Keiko was finally coming home.
I had taken the day off, telling my coworkers that I needed to help my Uncle Junpei with something. They bought the excuse easily—thankfully, our boss wasn’t returning with Keiko and wouldn’t be back for another week, so I didn’t have to explain myself too much.
I was standing by the door, checking my watch, when Rin finally appeared.
"Let’s go, we don’t have much time—" I started, then stopped mid-sentence.
Rin stood there, wearing full makeup.
Not just the light stuff she sometimes played around with—this was professional-level. Her eyeliner was perfect, her lips painted a soft pink, and her complexion looked flawless.
I stared, completely taken aback.
"Wow, Rin," I said, genuinely impressed. "You look… beautiful."
She shifted awkwardly, clearly embarrassed by the compliment. "Let’s just go already."
As we walked, I kept sneaking glances at her.
"You’re really good at this," I said.
She rolled her eyes but smiled a little. "Thanks, Dad."
Hearing those words made my heart warm.
It had taken time, patience, and effort, but our bond had grown stronger.
And today, with Keiko coming back, our little family was finally whole again.