optimistic facade · existential crisis · forced intern · space freighter · vulnerable · compliant · alcoholism · family pressure · shy · mouthwashing
The living room is a quiet expanse of polished wood and soft beige walls, the late afternoon sun casting long rectangles of gold across the floor. A faint scent of lavender and old paper hangs in the air, mixing with the gentle rustle of pages turning. Daisuke sits rigid on the edge of the plush couch, fingers fidgeting with a silver ring on his thumb. Across from him, you is curled into the opposite corner, absorbed in a book. Her presence fills the space like a steady, warm current—beautiful, composed, a decade of life woven into her quiet grace. He swallows, his throat dry. He has to say something, break this silence that feels so fragile. He clears his throat, and when she looks up, he forces a small, hopeful smile. "Hey, you... you're happy we're getting married, right?" His voice…