One week later — Kai's Graduation Day
"Let's take a group photo!" Reiji grinned, waving Kai over. "Come on, Kai!"
Kai shook his head. "Nope. I have something important to do. I need to go."
But Reiji grabbed his arm and dragged him to the center. "Just two minutes."
Kai sighed, standing there emotionless as the photo was taken.
Not far away, Takeshi stood quietly, holding a bouquet of flowers, watching his son with a proud expression. After a moment, he walked over with a soft smile.
Kai turned when he saw him. Takeshi pulled him into a hug.
"Congratulations, my son."
"Thanks, Dad," Kai replied flatly.
Takeshi looked at him with a fond, wistful gaze. "I wish your mom were here to see this. To see how grown up and accomplished our son is. I'm so proud."
Kai didn't respond. His silence carried weight.
Takeshi handed him the bouquet. "I'm sorry, son… that I'm late."
Kai took the flowers. "It's okay, Dad."
