While Ryu, Reina, and Caline basked in the warm glow of family life, Mina found herself caught in a quieter, lonelier space.
She never sought romance or companionship beyond the family she already had. Marriage or love interests never crossed her mind. She was fiercely independent and deeply loyal to her older brother and his growing family.
But sometimes, in the soft silence of the evening, when laughter filled the room but her own heart felt a little hollow, Mina wondered what it meant to belong—beyond blood and duty.
---
One afternoon, as Caline practiced her techniques under Ryu's watchful eye, Mina sat apart beneath the shade of a tree. She watched them with a faint smile but a distant gaze.
Her own strength was formidable, her skills honed after years of relentless training. Yet, she felt something missing—not a partner, not a lover, but a place where her heart could rest fully.
Reina noticed.
Later that evening, as they sat around the fire, Reina approached Mina gently.
"Hey," Reina said softly, "You're not alone. You're family. And we're here for you."
Mina nodded, grateful but unsure how to express what she felt.
"I don't need anyone else," Mina admitted quietly. "But sometimes… I just feel a little lonely."
Ryu reached over, placing a hand on Mina's shoulder. "You're not alone. You never will be. We're your family — and that's forever."
Caline bounced over, wrapping Mina in a hug. "Auntie Mina, you're my hero. I want you to stay with us forever."
Mina's lips curved in a gentle smile, warmth blooming in her chest.
---
Days passed, and Mina started opening up more, sharing stories, laughter, even doubts.
The family grew closer—not just as blood relatives, but as chosen bonds, where love wasn't just about romance, but about trust, care, and presence.
For Mina, that was enough.
She might walk her own path, but she would never walk it alone.
---