Deya had gone to a competition — it was one of those days when Miku came to the hospital with her daughter. During this time, she had learned to cook quite well.
Even the first time she came, despite her anxiety, the little one was very polite and sweet, which showed that despite her work, Miku had become a good mother.
Looking at Ray, the girl unexpectedly said to both of them:
"Are you my dad?"
Hearing her daughter's question, Miku felt embarrassed. Ray wanted to smile, but thinking such a sight might scare the little one, he stroked her head and said:
"No, but I would love to have such a little girl as my daughter. Your mom and I are just very good friends."
It seemed the girl was clearly disappointed by that answer. Ray knew this was the work of Yuno and Kira, and realizing that made him think those little ones needed to be punished.
"You'll be discharged in a couple of days, I'm sure the girls will be happy," Yuno said.
These year-and-a-half of recovery had been very hard for Ray. He was once again consumed by feelings of helplessness, and because he couldn't vent his anger, he was constantly tormented by nightmares. He had to put in a lot of effort not to show it.
"Thank you for your help."
When Miku felt the sincerity in his words, she became uncomfortable and replied:
"This is just my attempt to repay a debt, and we both know it's not enough."
"Silly girl, you don't owe me anything. It was my choice, and every choice has its price. Accept the fact that you owe me nothing, and try to move forward."
When he returned home, a set table and loving women awaited him — a very pleasant surprise for a man. He knew how things were going and didn't think all three would be able to make it.
When all three gave Ray kisses, Deya unceremoniously climbed onto his lap.
"Little aunt, don't you think you're too old for this?" Yuno said playfully, watching the scene.
"My brother has three women, two of the three call him daddy, so I think I have the right," Deya replied.
She was very grateful to everyone, because it was these unusual women, who so harmoniously shared her brother, that helped her understand herself and move forward.
Not everyone noticed that Miku and her daughter were getting ready to leave, but Ray's voice made everyone pay attention:
"Stay for a couple of days. Today is a celebration, and then we'll see you off."
"Yes, brother is right, don't rush," Yuno said. "During this time, Amaya and Deya have become very close; for the latter, the little one has become like a younger sister."
Miku could see that only she considered herself guilty. Even Yuno, who harbored a grudge, wasn't against her presence, which gnawed at Miku's soul even more. But looking at her daughter, who clearly wanted to stay, she finally said:
"Okay."
Seeing the envious eyes of the little one, Deya, as a good sister, gave up her spot on her brother's lap. Even though she said she had no problem with it, at her age it was indeed strange. But she saw it as a display of affection and a way to show her brother that she still needed him, even though she was no longer a child.
Dinner passed in a very warm atmosphere, in which Miku felt a little uncomfortable. Ray and Kira talked about their experience working on the film.
Noticing that Amaya had fallen asleep, Yuno said:
"Tonight, the little lady will sleep with me. I hope you don't mind."
Realizing the question was directed at her, Miku replied:
"Of course not, I'm sure she'll be very happy."
Handing the little one, who had dozed off on his lap, to his sister, Ray said:
"Thank you for this wonderful dinner, I think I should go take a shower."
Hearing this, Sam stood up and said:
"I'll join you."
Hearing that, Ray didn't argue — he knew he wasn't the only one missing the warmth of the girls.
Seeing the couple leave to have fun, Miku turned to Kira and asked:
"That's your daughter? And you have no problem with this?"
"No, my little one has grown up. Honestly, I was very glad that a man appeared whom she could let into her heart."
"If he threw himself under a car for the one who betrayed him, think about what he would do for a girl who loves him with all her heart," Yuno said.
As soon as she finished, Kira gave her a smack on the back of the head.
"That was too harsh," Kira said, "but the truth is, she's right. I know that as long as my little one is faithful to him, he won't hurt her."
"Calm down," Kira said while Yuno rubbed her head.
"I know you still love him, and I have a proposal for you."
After listening to Kira's proposal, Miku barely overcame her surprise and, turning to Yuno, asked:
"Suppose I accept your offer — do you have a problem with that?"
"I'm not thrilled about it, but it's the right thing to do. But you should know one thing: if you accept this offer and step on the same rake again, your daughter will have to grow up without a mother."
"I need to think about it."
"I understand, but don't take too long. We need your answer so we can find someone else."
Hugging Deya, Amaya said:
"Big sister, I don't want to leave."
"Don't be so sad. I don't mind you staying, but who will look after your mom?"
"You can come visit us anytime, you'll always be welcome," Ray said.
This response is AI-generated, for reference only.