A Comfy, Cozy Friendship

[Mitsuko]

Mitsuko and Leo have a very comfy, cozy, friendship, and since the angel hadn’t spent time with him in quite some time, she decided that she wanted to stop by his place for a visit. She also heard through the grapevine that Leo had found love, and Mitsuko was so happy for him. This morning she woke up early and began cooking in the kitchen. She was making two treats to share with her friend. The first was homemade jam using the fruits that she had grown in her garden. The jam was really easy to make- all the angel had to do was cook the mashed fruits after removing their seeds to a boil, add sugar and let it simmer. Once the jam was made she filled a few glass jars with it, and packaged it as a gift.

The next treat was a little more time consuming to make, but it suited the love that Leo had found in his life, and Mitsuko hopes that Leo would want to share it with his girlfriend. The angel began making her P.S. I Love You cake which was essentially a chocolate raspberry cake with raspberry buttercream frosting, and fresh raspberries decorated around the top. The inspiration behind the cake was her husband Zero. She wanted to always remember the first time that he told her that he loved her, so she got creative and made a cake out of that precious memory. Mitsuko wanted to share the love through that cake with her dear friend.

The cake took about one hour to make. When it was baked to perfection, cooled, frosted, and decorated Mitsuko placed the cake in a pink box that she gratefully received from Zephel’s cafe where he worked, as he had extra boxes at the back of the bakery in storage. She closed the top of the box securely with a ribbon after writing a heartfelt note on the top of the box that said:

'Thank you for always being so kind. I’m sorry I haven’t stopped by to see how you were doing, but I hope this makes up for it!' After she finished writing the note, she then put the items carefully in her car and made her way over to Gradia. She knew that Leo had lived in a home which also functioned as his art studio located near Gradia Park. Hopefully he didn’t mind Mitsuko paying him a visit.

When she got to his place she gently knocked on his door-hoping that he was in. ‘Sometimes surprise visits don’t go well, but I hope this one does…’










[TAG: Leo]

[Leo]

Throughout the day, Leo has been spending his day lazing about with Rayl. It's one those cloudy gloomy days that he couldn't help staying in bed. Except this isn't his bedroom bed, it's his library bed. Yes, Leo has a bed set up in his library just so he can laze around like this while reading.

Rayl is focused on her reading and Leo is as well. They are both sharing the space together while completely sucked in their respective books. He had his hair up in a messy knot as he reads, until a particular part in his book mentions hot cocoa.

Now craving hot cocoa, Leo extracts himself from his book to make himself and Rayl a cup. He slid down the stairs of his mansion of a house and heads to his kitchen to boil some water. He busies himself with the cocoa powder and popping open a bag of marshmallows while waiting.

However, just as he had finished making two cups of cocoa, he heard faint knocks against his front door. Leo looked up from his kitchen counter. 'Did I imagined that...?' People in Gradia rarely knock, they have a tendency in using the doorbells instead.

Now curious of what made that sound, Leo sidles over to the side towards a marble wall and spoke to the AI governing the security of the house, "Exousia. Is someone outside?" The marble wall flashes neon blue for a moment before projecting a holographic screen against the wall, showing live footage from the camera just above his porch. In front of his door, there seems to be someone standing outside, and Leo peered into the face of the stranger. Lo and behold, it was no stranger. It's his old friend, Mitsuko.

Surprised to see her, in front of his door no less, Leo made his way to the entrance of his house. He finds his steps getting quicker as he reaches his front door, gradually feeling more cheerful by the surprise visit of his guest. Mitsuko is a precious friend, he was acquainted with her in the middle of his journey, and she was always such a joy to be around. He remembered she was telling him how beautiful love is and how supportive she was of his talent. He knows she appreciates the arts too, and he has been thinking to invite her to his art studio at some point so she can try using his more advanced art tools for fun. Unfortunately, life has its ways, and they both got busy with their own paths. Therefore, at the sight of her standing so patiently in front of his door, Leo looks towards her eyes with an expression of cherished kindness.



"Welcome, Mitsuko." He politely nods to her, truly is happy to reconnect with the angel again. "I'm so happy to see you again. Would you like to come in? I think it's about to rain..." His blue eyes shifted upwards, noting the ominous clouds began to overcast the sky. The artist steps aside to let the angel in, noting the bag in her hand and wonders if he should offer to carry it for her since it seems to be heavy. He decided against it. He didn't want to intrude after not having seen her for a while.

"I just made some hot cocoa. Would you like a cup?" He offers kindly, guiding her towards the kitchen. It took them a while to reach there, since the living space is gigantic. They had to weave pass some sofas and decorative tables, until finally they reach the kitchen. On the kitchen counter, there are already two steaming cups of cocoa. At the sight, Leo suddenly recalls that he had not yet notify Mitsuko of the other inhabitant of his house.

"Oh, yes. My girlfriend, Rayl, lives here with me now." His eyes are smiling for his lips as he mentions the name of the person he treasures. "In any case, thank you for visiting. You look like you haven't aged a day since I last saw you."

[Mitsuko]

Mitsuko’s and Leo’s friendship has always been one where it was cozy and comfy, but also polite and kind. When Leo opened his front door to let her inside she had this instinctive urge to hug him as a greeting, but her hands were full with the bag she was carrying, so once he led her to the kitchen, she placed the bag down on the countertop, and hugged him gently-- really happy that she stopped by and relieved that Leo was happy to see her and wasn’t bothered that she showed up without notice, but she still apologized in good faith. “It’s so wonderful to see you Leo. I’m so sorry that I stopped by without notice, but I promise the next time I want to see you I’ll call.”

When Leo offers her a cup of hot chocolate the angel nods at his hospitality. “Thank you I’d love some! It’s one of my favourite drinks how’d you know that?” Mitsuko smiled when he mentions his girlfriend. “I know~ I heard small whispers here and there that you found love. I’ve always wanted that for you, because love in general can be so healing. Whether it was friendship love, or romantic love, or even both it doesn’t matter as long as it makes you feel happy and safe and from the look of your kind eyes the love you found with Rayl has made a positive difference in each of your lives.”

The angel remembered the first time she met Rayl. Rayl was a totally different person back then, and was a bit of an ice queen, however Mitsuko understands that people come from different walks of life and it wasn’t her place to judge anyone. From the outside, Leo and Rayl seemed like total opposites but the same could be said for Mitsuko and Zero. The commonality between these couples was that the love they each found with their respective partners made a huge difference in their lives and it showed. “If you don’t mind me saying so Leo… The love we found with our partners has eased our loneliness and it helped us to be better people. I really wish you and Rayl a lifetime of happiness. I thought about you a lot ever since we had that conversation back at Quekkori Village. My heart went out to you truly so I’m so glad that you allowed a special love into your life. It’s not easy to be vulnerable with another person intimately, but when we do allow it, a powerful bond can form.”

Mitsuko then was touched by Leo’s compliment about how she hadn’t aged a day, when the reality is time was marching on and the angel was getting older, but she liked to see it as her aging gracefully.

“Thank you so much for the compliment Leo, I may not look like I’m aging but I sure do feel it, especially since I got married and gave birth to my son. But I wouldn’t change anything. I’m so happy that I have a family of my own now. Being married and being a mother is such a fulfilling thing to have happen in my life. Would you like to see a picture of my son? I have a few on my phone.” The proud mama got out her phone and in her excitement she accidentally snapped a photo of Leo. “I’m so sorry! But awww~ this is a nice picture of you. It’s cute. I’ll keep it as a memory of today. Ah. Here we are. Meet my baby. Matthew.” Mitsuko’s eyes teared up in joy as she showed Leo a photo of her newborn son. “Zero’s taking care of him today. I hope I left enough baby formula in the fridge, and I hope my husband remembers that after heating it up he tests it on his skin before feeding.”





Mitsuko then told Leo the reason why she came to visit him, and it was because of those treats in her bag. “One of the reasons I stopped by today in addition to seeing how you were doing, was to give you these.” She takes out the jars of homemade jam first, and then the pink cake box. “I made these treats for you to share with Rayl. The jam I made using some of the fresh fruit I grew in my garden, and the cake I made fresh this morning. The story behind the cake is that it captures the moment the first time Zero said he loved me. I.. I wanted to bake that memory into a cake. So it’s chocolate raspberry. I hope you two enjoy it.” She blushed a bit as she handed the items to Leo, hoping that the treats make him and his special lady happy.

[Leo]

Noting Mitsuko's body language after she puts down her bag on the countertop, Leo was already opening his arms to accept the expected friendly hug. He couldn't tell what exactly, but by her hug, he could feel like something heavy must have happened to her. It felt a bit different than before.

Leo shook his head a little at Mitsuko's apology for stopping by suddenly and reassures her. "Oh, no, not at all. You're always welcomed in my home any time. I actually intend to invite you here a long time ago, but it slipped my mind." A lot happened to him personally, he couldn't really fault himself after the ongoing threats he faced. Thus, he's glad that the angel is kind enough to reach out to him like this.

The artist nods his head after Mitsuko accepted his hot cocoa offer, excusing himself to go to the other side of the countertop to prepare another cup. "I like to think that hot cocoa is a staple in any comfortable household. It's comforting." He smiles over at the angel's positive outlook of the drink.

Rain is beginning to dribble against the windowpanes and it's starting to get dark. "Exousia. Turn on kitchen light." He commanded without looking up, and the lights flicks on in an instant. Finishing the cup with several marshmallows on top, he gently slides the cup over to the angel with a small smile. "Take a seat." He gestured to the tall stools near the countertop, and simply rests his elbows on the other side of the countertop.

Leo lets out a light breath and an awkward smile once Mitsuko recounts of what she heard about his relationship with Rayl. "Ah... I see the media has spread the news." He's quite well-known around Gradia, so he's not surprised if the locals knew, but for people outside the country too? It surprises him. Still, Mitsuko approached the subject with respect and gentleness, choosing to be happy that he found love and the positive effect it brings.

The artist dips his head down in bashfulness and with a quiet whisper, responded "Thank you..." His eyes held a bit of pain when Mitsuko mentions love can help ease loneliness and be better people. He quickly compartmentalized that topic for his own musing for another day. The angel is kind enough to bless them with well wishes.

"Mm... I feel like I am constantly vulnerable around Rayl, I mean I'm only human, and she's more than human. But I'm glad to be a stable variable in her life." He has seen a lot of her pain. Raw, unstable pain. It's because he's so vulnerable that she finds him safe, and their relationship bloomed from that trust. Leo closes his eyes and breathes out. Sometimes all it takes is to be humane to connect with another person.

Leo looks over at the angel and laughs a little as she comments of her feeling like she aged. He listens quietly as Mitsuko updates him on her life and nods at her offer to show him a picture of her baby, when she accidentally snapped a picture of him. This causes Leo to laugh slightly, then he leans forward to see the picture across the countertop. "Wow, congratulations. I see the apple didn't fall far from the tree. He looks as beautiful as you."

Mitsuko looks like she's glowing in pride when she talks about her family. Leo smiles over at her, glad to see her this happy with her life. "I'm not sure if you know, but your wedding made the news. At least, in Gradian newspapers. Not at the front page, but in the side columns. A lot of people around the domain knew of you, especially from your philanthropy work after the Syn attacks, and the news of your marriage sparked brief conversations here and there." The artist was probably in the middle of being stabbed by Rayl when it happened, and he only learned of Mitsuko's marriage through word of mouth a few days after. He sent a congratulatory card over at the inn she worked, thought it was probably a week or so late.

Leo looks up at the angel thinking if her husband can manage taking care of the baby and smiled. "Mitsuko. I'm happy you found happiness. Cherish this life well, and I wish you continued happiness in your marriage." Soft-spoken as always, he sends his thoughts.

"Hm?" Once Mitsuko brings his attention towards the bag that she brought, Leo looks over at it curiously. Genuine surprise sparks in his eyes as the angel brought her gifts out of the bag one by one. "Oh my goodness. These are hand-made?" He takes one of the jars in his hand to look at it closer. "Amazing. Wow. Are you sure you're giving us these? I could easily slap a logo on here and let you sell these for 8$ a jar at the farmers market." He jokes, but there's a hint of truth in his tone. Handmade items are valuable in this economy, where everything is moving too fast and everyone is always rushing everywhere.

"Oh my, there's even a story behind the cake?" The surprise in Leo's voice is apparent as he looks over at the cake box. "Hold on. I'm curious, bear with me. How does the memory of your husband saying he loves you translate into chocolate raspberry..?" There's an apologetic glint in his eyes after he asks so, seeming to feel bad for not understanding. Of course, he did not miss the proud and happy expression on Mitsuko's expression whenever she talks of her family, so perhaps allowing her to shed some light of her favorite topic would make her happier.

Leo was told he is very observant, but what he chose to do with the information he picked up is just this; to make another person's day happier.

[Mitsuko]

With the sound of the rain coming down harder than before Mitsuko figured that she will have to wait this storm out before she heads out back into the countryside. She wasn’t in any hurry to leave but she did make a mental note that she wasn’t going to drive in a storm like this nor would Zero want her to. “Oh dear that rain is sounding quite nasty, do you mind Leo if I wait this storm out? I don’t think it’s safe for me to drive in those stormy conditions. I’ll even help you make a few meals for later if you’d let me, that way Rayl has something to look forward to, and I have a way to thank you for your hospitality on such short notice. It’s not easy to host someone out of the blue, much less in a storm like this.” Mitsuko smiled at her friend and when she took a seat and got her hot chocolate she took a minute to text her husband letting him know that she may be home late due to the storm, but she did make it to Leo’s place safe and sound just before the storm hit.

“Sorry about that. Zero worries about me a lot when I’m not in the country, but I’m just glad he’s home today with our baby, and not in Veyyard. You see my husband and I are in a long distance marriage when he has to work. So I figured that with his day off today he can use it to bond with our son and change his diapers.” Mitsuko laughed a little, but even with her maternity leave, it wasn’t enough to support their newborn son who also had a medical challenge so Zero was the one that supported the family because he had much more of a stable income, and he was the one that helped her get a used car. Zero got tired of seeing his wife work so hard for so little, especially when she had that financial goal of earning money to get a car, that she had her eye on-- so Zero stepped in to help her even when she politely declined.

She was forever grateful to her husband, and she knows that things will get better financially in the future. In the midst of her thoughts, Leo made a comment about the possibility of her selling her homemade jam at the farmer’s market. He was making a lighthearted joke certainly, but it was a GREAT idea that Mitsuko would actually put into practice. “The farmer’s market huh? You know Leo, that’s actually a great idea. My maternity leave isn’t enough to support our son, so Zero’s income makes a huge difference in the financial gap that we currently have especially since we are newlyweds, and new parents. So I was in limbo and wasn’t sure what I was going to do next… until you mentioned me selling my homemade jam. I can draw a logo and perhaps you can help me decide what goes well with my jam?”

Mitsuko pulled out from her bag a softly used digital tablet and while they hung out drinking hot chocolate- she started to draw her logo for her homemade jam. As she drew Leo mentioned how her wedding to Zero made news in Gradia. She slowed down her drawing moments as she heard this surprising news and blushed madly. Mitsuko had no idea that her actions had made such an impact across the domain.

Mitsuko truly believed in showing kindness to others, no matter the circumstances. She even helped others outside of the domain, and occasionally she would go and stay with families that were in crisis, and needed an angel to help them get back on track. It didn’t matter if they believed in angels or not, just the comfort, love, and kindness would help these troubled families. That was her angelic mission outside of the domain. One angelic mission was to help a mother say goodbye to her dying son, The grief that the mother felt was indescribable, but she and Mitsuko shared a comforting hug and tears together.

That was Mitsuko’s purpose in life.

People who weave love: create without knowing and carve a path in history.

“I’m grateful that I can make such a huge difference. Life is hard. If I can help many people then they will take that love and spread it to their loved ones. Love and kindness has a ripple effect and it doesn’t cost a penny."

She then showed Leo her rough design for the logo. “What do you think of this? Too cutesy?” Later on Mitsuko was then asked about how the memory of her husband saying that he loved her for the first time could be inspiration for a cake. “Well.. hmm…. Food is an expression of love. I thought that if I held on to that precious memory then I can create something delicious that I can share with others. Zero has loved and cared about me ever since we reunited as adults. But being as young as we are we tiptoed around our feelings for too long. Thankfully we embraced them once it was clear about what was going on, and we have been together since, and now we have our son. All hail our  jubilee date! hahahaha.”

[Leo]

Leo agrees that Mitsuko should wait out the storm in his house, but politely declines her offer to cook them meals. "You're our guest. It's alright, no need to cook for us. Your presence and companionship are thanks enough, please." He's pretty sure they've used all the cooking ingredients in the fridge, so he doesn't want Mitsuko to put it upon herself to make a meal out of nothing. In fact, Leo plans to just order delivery for today.

Once the angel had made herself comfortable on a seat with her hot chocolate, Leo settles on a seat across from her as well. Rayl's cup is still here, but he figured she will come down eventually to fetch it after waiting for him for so long.

Leo has forgotten of Mitsuko's husband's name from the news, but by how she talks of this Zero and the context of her words, he managed to pick that information out without asking. She tells him how she's in a long-distance marriage, and her husband has a day off to bond with their son. "My, of course he'd be worried then. You're geographically separated from one another, and on his day off, you're out here in a different country... You can give him my word to keep you sheltered and fed here until the rain lets up. It's my honor to, as thanks for all you've done for me." He kindly offers.

On the topic of her homemade jams, the artist is pleased that Mitsuko seems receptive of the idea in selling her jams. It surprised him though when she pulls out a digital tablet out of her bag and goes straight into designing. A knowing yet gentle look passed over his face, the artist in him completely understanding when the idea strikes, it's best to strike it hot.

He listens to her surprise of the impact she made across the domain, and nods politely at her desire to help others. It's a noble cause, and one as expected of someone of her heart and caliber.

While she's working on her logo, Leo excuses himself to deliver Rayl's cup of hot chocolate while it's still warm. He brought the cup upstairs to his library, lets Rayl know there's a guest downstairs, and returns back to the kitchen to humor his guest, just in time as Mitsuko shows him the rough design of her logo.

"I think that looks good. Perhaps add the word 'jam' somewhere there, so people would know what kind of product it is?" Leo gestured to her tablet, asking her permission to add the standard patterns and colors that would immediately clue people in that it's a jar of strawberry jam.



"I suppose something like that?" He showed her design that he updates, though her original design still remains that in another tab. He wouldn't want to be rude by overtaking creative liberties over her cute artwork. He just takes her art as inspiration and add new patterns.

At Mitsuko's attempt to explain what exactly about chocolate raspberry that equals to a memory she had with her husband. Leo tries to understand, but perhaps his brain simply couldn't comprehend the logic behind food and love. He vaguely understands the core reasoning though. "I see... So you two tiptoeing around your feelings and finally getting together is akin to the flavor of chocolate raspberry?" He has no idea if he gets it right, but it's worth a shot.

He's having fun catching up with an old friend, and he feels the need to express that her stories so far sounds straight out of a novel. "Mitsuko, your life sounds so exciting and full of surprises. I'm so happy you have found the happiness that you deserve."

[Mitsuko]

Mitsuko really appreciated having a friend like Leo. There was just something comforting and cozy about his presence in her life. When he helped her out with the logo she smiled thankful of his input. She giggled light heartily. “Zero didn’t want me going out today as we don’t get to see each other often at the moment because of our unique circumstances. In fact, he had the biggest frown as I was leaving, and when we kissed each other goodbye, he didn’t want to break it. He kept deepening the kiss so that I wouldn’t leave, even if it meant pinning me against the wall- his passion for me.. is..” She blushed realizing what she shared with Leo. “I’m so sorry I shouldn’t have shared that, but I guess it means I’m just as comfortable with you as I am with my girl friends.” She cleared her throat. "And I understand Zero’s feelings. We are maintaining our marriage on hard mode, so we’ve had to communicate a lot more all the while we raise our son at a distance.” She then paused for a minute to gather her thoughts before continuing. “But I wanted to check in and see how you were doing, and now that you have a special love, I wanted to bring by some goodies for you two to share.”

When Leo insisted that she didn’t have to cook for him and Rayl, an idea popped in her head. “Well how about a compromise? Since you are providing me shelter until the rain clears, how about I cook you both dinner instead? I bet if I look in your fridge right now I’d be able to find something that I can cook, with a Japanese twist to it. I’m reconnecting with my culture again, so..” Mitsuko smiled, and when Leo excused himself for a few minutes to go see Rayl, the angel got up from where she was sitting, took off her jacket and hung it up on the back of her chair, and then opened his fridge, and freezer. Her eyes lit up when she found all the ingredients she needed to make Japanese potato salad, and ham katsu.

Simple ingredients can make the most hearty and tasty meals, and it was bound to fill Rayl and Leo up later. Leo can still order takeout for lunch, but Mitsuko did want to cook at least one meal as a token of her appreciation. She never did take advantage of anyone, and if there was an opportunity to show how grateful she was for something so simple as shelter from the rain to keep her safe from getting into a car accident on the road. Simple things made Mitsuko happy especially when she was able to do things for other people.

It wasn’t because she wanted to earn their favor or friendship, or get something from the people or person in return, it was because she was just kind, and taking people also heals the part of her that needed someone to take care of her. Despite her grief, trauma, past lonely moments, and deep hurts, kindness and love was the light that enveloped her entire soul. She wasn’t perfect, had flaws like everyone, and made mistakes－but she knew who she was a person.

Mitsuko also loved to cook, as she believed food was love. She even woke up early this morning to cook a few meals for her family so that they can be well fed while she was out of the country. It didn’t replace her physical presence, and it didn’t ease Zero’s feelings about her not being at home today when he was, but she still left her family with something.

So, while Leo was upstairs with Rayl briefly she made their dinner, putting all of her love into it. Eventually when Leo had returned and continued their conversation it became more animated when he commented that her life sounded exciting and full of surprises. Mitsuko shook her head-being modest and humble. “Oh no.. I mean I appreciate what life has given me certainly.. but life is also hard. Really hard. I just learned along the way that we have to work hard to carve better futures for ourselves, especially when parts of our lives have been sad and full of pain. It’s easy to want to forget the hard things we go through, but it makes us who we are, and hopefully inspires us to be kinder people, and kinder towards ourselves, and provide a better foundation for our children if we decide that we want our own families. On top of that I’m also working hard to change a mindset of mine. To stop seeing myself as a burden to my husband, especially if I need to ask him for something. He certainly doesn’t see me as a burden, and if he can fulfill a request he will do so, but Zero will also tell me when he’s unable to do something at the moment.”

Mitsuko processes and expresses her emotions by shedding a few tears as it’s healthy for her, so that is exactly what happens as she continues to share things with Leo. “Maybe it’s the romantic in me but I love it when Zero just shows up at home to see me and his son without notice. Without planning. Some things you ask for because of course not everyone can mind read, but there are just some things people do out of their own heart because they love someone and miss them terribly. Zero showing up at home without notice? I love that. I love that a lot. I don’t even expect flowers or anything. Just him showing up out of the blue to see me and his son. Especially when he’s been away from home for more than a week due to work.”

Mitsuko then reached over to the paper towel roll on the countertop, and she breaks a piece of it to dry her eyes. “There are also things that are non negotiable in our marriage. We have a child that was born with a heart condition, so Zero always shows up for Matthew’s appointments. He’s his father so Zero has a right to know what’s going on with his son’s health and recovery progress, and as he told me, he wouldn’t feel comfortable if someone else has to stand by my side at our child’s appointment. We even go as far as to check the weather ahead of time so Zero can plan ahead, and take some time off if necessary. If Matthew’s appointment falls on a snowy day, or a terrible thunderstorm then we ask for his medical team to do a video call with us instead, and we just reschedule the in person follow up for another day.” As if almost by instinct Mitsuko found where Leo kept his cups, plates, and cutlery.






“As for physical intimacy… We’ve had to hit the pause button on sex. I.. I’m still healing from giving birth to my son. There’s a general guideline for most women, but considering I’m an angel with healing abilities and using it to help my son, my body has become slower on the uptake to return back to normal, and I’m adapting to motherhood at the same time. I’m sorry. I must be sharing too much Leo. But thank you for listening, it’s been a long while since I’ve been able to have a conversation from my heart.”

[Leo]

Leo is completely sympathetic of Mitsuko's husband when she recounts that her husband did not want her to go out today. If he himself is busy with commissions and finally getting a break, then Rayl were to choose to spend her time elsewhere instead of with him on his break, he'd feel crestfallen. "Let us hope that the rain lets up quickly so you may return before the day is over... I'd feel terrible to hog you all day when your family needs you at home, Mitsuko."

He's thankful that she's here to check up on him, he enjoys that they're cozily updating each other on what's new with their lives. However, he wouldn't want to take up her entire day. Mitsuko's rather passionate statement of how her husband kissed her goodbye completely flew over Leo's head, he takes it as her simply explaining it was always difficult for them to separate. "Please don't apologize. I'm just glad to hear you're strongly loved, as you should be."

There is a small kind smile on his face as he says so, as if it's the most obvious fact in the world. "I think giving love and being loved are important in life." He whispers, deeply connected to the understanding that without love and compassion, humanity will simply perish. To him, Mitsuko embodies love. She gives love abundantly and receives them endlessly. He sees it in her so clearly, it's beautiful in his eyes.

"Listen, Mitsuko. Thank you." Since he said so directly after she expressed that she came to check in on him, he has to rephrase his words. "I mean... Thank you for coming of course, but also... Thank you, for teaching me about love. I can't put the things I feel into words very well, but know that I see so much spark and love in you, and I want to thank you for coming into my life and allowing me to see it." Leo has a very soft-spoken nature, everything he says sounds subdued, but in a way, it gives a certain genuineness. As if he's speaking of something very delicate and true.

"I think your existence is important in a lot of people's lives. I wish I can thank you for everyone's sake." Even though he's largely an artist of abstract pursuit, he still sees his reality as one giant interconnecting link. While art exists only in the mind --separated from embodiment-- reality is the opposite. Seeing both sides of the world like this has opened his mind's eye to appreciate every little thing that exists. "The world would be radically different without you, Mitsuko." It felt almost otherworldly, the way he says it, as if the universe fell silent just so he can speak that one important sentence, reverberating the truth into existence.

"Ah... I'm being strange again, aren't I?" And within a moment, the magic in the air breaks once Leo raises a hand over his lips and apologizes for speaking of esoteric matters without realizing. "I'm sorry. I felt like I needed to acknowledge that I see where you belong in this beautiful world." He dips his head down with a shy smile. He tends to see and question things that other people normally don't, he suppose that's why the media sometimes labels him as a philosopher of sorts.

When Mitsuko insisted on a compromise to cook dinner for them instead, Leo raises his head in surprise. Then, his expression settled into a small smile, thinking that this is exactly the kind of thing Mitsuko does. She's not necessarily pushy, but strong in her insistence. He's glad she's at least gentle in her delivery. "Ahaha... Alright then, I understand I can't stop you. But since you're making something warm, I could order delivery for dinner instead, so we can have a taste of your cooking fresh out of the kitchen for lunch."

He allows her free reign into his kitchen before he left to check on Rayl upstairs. The pitter-patter of the rain continues outside, it gives for a perfect ambience whether for reading in the library or cooking in the kitchen.

"Rayl, do you want to have lunch downstairs? My friend Mitsuko insists to cook for us." The artist pops his head in the library door. The kitchen is rather far away, but they both can smell the food being cooked. "I'll go on ahead first to keep our guest company. You can come down whenever you're ready." He gave her an easygoing smile, fully knowing how hard it is to put a book down once one starts on it. "Take your time until some kind of interlude in the chapter and then come down, okay?"

Once Leo returns downstairs, he can see the angel in the midst of cooking something. He takes his seat while looking over at her as they continue talking. His comment on how her life being exciting allowed her to open up regarding how truly hard life is. Leo listens patiently, acknowledging that of course something painful and difficult has happened to her for her to embody this all-encompassing kindness.

He smiles a bit at her vow to better herself by practicing a healthier mindset, no doubt due to the strong support she receives from her family. It truly is important to build a strong rapport with a few select people. Leo himself has no family members anymore, but he's beginning to see that it doesn't have to be family. Friends work as well.

Leo kindly offers Mitsuko a tissue once she she begins tearing up, allowing her the space to express herself while also subtly letting her know that she has his support. It's beautiful how overwhelming her love reaches that it made her cry. "I can see as clear as day how much you love Zero and your son. The people we love are a constellation." Leo smiles, offering his point of view now that he understands what is at the heart of love. "In loving them, it is our privilege to see and bring out all the different worlds and colours and depths within them, just as they have the potential to do the same for us in return."

Mitsuko continues to speak regarding how she and her husband handle appointments regarding their sick son. He could not fathom the amount of strength they must have. "I pray your son's heart condition lessens as he ages... I know a few Gradian collegues with doctorates specializing on cardiology. If you need me to forward their numbers to you, let me know."

The topic is heavy, but Mitsuko cooks with ease and lightness in her steps. Leo helps her out with the table once she finishes cooking to plate her food. He was about to comment how delicious it looks and thank her for it, but Mitsuko seems to still be in her head as she shares about her personal challenge in physical intimacy.

"Mitsuko... I know women have different healing capabilities after giving birth, but with the added stress of motherhood, are you sure you're alright? Do you need to get your health checked as well?" There is concern in his voice, implying on not only her physical health, but her mental health as well. "It all seems very challenging... I'd recommend a checkup just in case. After all, you can't fill another cup when your own cup is empty."

Leo shakes his head at the angel's apology for oversharing. "Not at all. It's healthy to get these out of your chest. I'm glad I could be of help by listening." He grabs three empty plates and puts them on the table, so they could eat together. "Please join us for lunch, I insist. Have a seat. I called Rayl earlier, she seems to be stuck in her book. She will join us shortly."

[Mitsuko]

“No thanks is necessary Leo. I’m just glad that we are really good friends! I can talk to my husband abut anything and everything, but I’m happy you and I can have chats too without being uncomfortable.” Once Leo left once more to invite Rayl to join them, Mitsuko’s cellphone began to ring, and it was her husband. Mitsuko had specific ring tones for each person on her contact list and family member, and Zero’s ring tone was an instrumental version of their wedding song.

Unfortunately, the angel was in the middle of cooking and so she didn’t want the food to burn. Once she finished setting up the table with dear Leo’s help, she responded to all the things Leo had said to her. “Aww thanks Leo! I have a lot to thank my husband and son for though. My son, for letting me be his mom, and Zero for choosing me to spend the rest of his life with. He and I believe in the legend of the red string of fate- that no matter what we experienced in the past while we were apart, we were always connected. And even when a higher power watched over us and helped open a pathway for us to meet again when we did, we still had to put in the work. The relationship needed nurturing.” It was Mitsuko’s turn to be poetic. “Relationships are like gardens. Stop nurturing them and the bond dies. But keep nurturing the garden and the bond grows more beautiful everyday, even when there are challenges.”

Mitsuko then called back her husband, and had him on speaker phone. Zero sounded slightly down because his wife wasn’t home, but as they spoke more about their baby and Mitsuko guided him to where the diapers were, Zero then decided to tease his wife. He was always known to test how much Mitsuko was willing to let him get away with, and Zero had mentioned that he had his shirt off. Mitsuko’s cheeks were turning red at the very thought, but she rationalized that the reason her husband had his shirt off was to have skin- to-skin contact with Matthew as a way to bond, and it was actually very healthy for their son, because it supports better physical and developmental outcomes for their baby, and can be used anytime Matthew needs comforting. 

This was even more important to practice since their baby had a medical condition. Fathers can provide skin-to skin contact with their babies too, not just the mother, and it can be very healthy for them as well. The call ended on a loving note and of course Zero cracked up when he sensed his wife going red. “My husband can be a handful, but at least he can make blush as red as a hot chili pepper.”

When Leo asked about Mitsuko’s health she slowed down a little in her movements, clearly worried about her child more than anything.. “I.. haven’t seen a doctor. I feel alright for now, thank you very much for your thoughtful and kind concern.” But knowing Mitsuko she would always prioritize her family first, and when her next child is born, that’s when she won’t realize how sneaky and insidious postpartum depression will creep into her life. “I’ve just been so worried about my son… So I’ll take you up on your offer about the cardiologists numbers. Just in case Zero and I need a second opinion or we need to change his current doctor.”

[Rayl]

Rayl sat quietly on the expansive windowsill, her head leaning against the cold glass, engrossed in the book she clutched in her hands. In response to Leo's announcement of heading to the kitchen to prepare hot cocoa, Rayl softly hummed in acknowledgment. She had earlier forewarned him about the approaching cold and imminent rain, thanks to her heightened ability to the element.

As the minutes ticked by, Rayl suddenly detected another presence in Leo's house, recognizing it as someone she hadn't seen in a while. Leo opened the door, confirming her suspicion that Mitsuko had come for a visit. Surprised, Rayl responded, "Oh, she is?" Leo informed her that Mitsuko was cooking for both of them. Rayl nodded in acknowledgement, and as Leo closed the door, she shifted her attention back to her book, marking her page for later continuation.

With a stretch to alleviate stiffness, Rayl assessed her attire, realizing she was clad in Leo's white long-sleeved shirt with the top button casually undone and comfortable black cycling pants. Closing the room door behind her, she descended the stairs, making her way to the kitchen where Mitsuko and Leo were engaged in conversation. Rayl's curious eyes lingered on Mitsuko, noting the angel's mature appearance and pondering how much time had elapsed since their last meeting.

"Mitsuko," Rayl called out, waiting for a suitable pause in the conversation about Mitsuko's child. "It's been a while," she greeted as she approached and stood near the table.