After a few moments of awkward silence, Mr. and Mrs. Tanaka invite Ahmed inside. They exchange words of welcome and lead him to a quiet living room with soft lighting and simple Japanese decor. The warm scent of green tea fills the air, and conversation flows gently.)
(Ahmed sits on the floor beside the low table, while Mrs. Tanaka pours tea into small cups. Mr. Tanaka looks at Ahmed, then says in a calm tone tinged with a hint of sadness:)
Mr. Tanaka:
"Misaki was a bright girl, full of energy and laughter... until her best friend left suddenly."
(Mrs. Tanaka pauses pouring the tea for a moment, then adds in a gentle voice as she looks at Misaki:)
Mrs. Tanaka:
"She was just like her sister. They grew up together since childhood. But her friend's family moved to Europe a few months ago, without a real farewell... and since then, everything has changed."
(Ahmed looks at Misaki, who silently stares at her teacup, her lips trembling slightly as if she's resisting a painful memory. Ahmed feels a pang in his heart, and is overcome with sincere empathy.)
Ahmed (in a quiet voice):
"A farewell without words... is harder than the departure itself."
(Misaki raises her eyes towards him, their gazes meet for a moment. No words are spoken, but she understands that he understood her... Finally, someone understands without being asked.)