The little girl, unaware of that depth, never gave up. She learned how to do chores to ease her mother's burden, learned how to cook so she wouldn't have to worry after long days at work. She welcomed her home with warm hugs, clinging to her as if that alone could make things better. Sometimes, when her mother had already fallen asleep, she would quietly lean in and press a soft kiss against her cheek, hoping without knowing why that it might reach her.
Kei could only watch. Tears streamed down her face as the truth settled in once more. She saw how utterly lost and empty the woman was… and how painfully clueless the girl remained, loving with all her heart, never realizing how little she could actually save.
