It was a rare weekend morning when Haru got up earlier than usual. Standing in the kitchen, holding a recipe on her phone, she looked determined.
"Today, I'm going to make the perfect breakfast for Zion!"
She rolled up her sleeves and decided to start with the simplest dish: scrambled eggs with tomatoes.
—Five minutes later, a strange smell filled the kitchen.
Haru was panicking, tossing random seasonings into the pan.
"Just a little sugar… maybe some soy sauce? Oh, and chili powder for flavor! Yeah, that'll work."
"What on earth are you doing?"
The cold voice came from behind.
Haru nearly jumped out of her skin. She turned and saw Zion leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, looking exactly like a teacher about to catch a student cheating.
"I—I'm making you a surprise breakfast!" Haru stammered, trying to smile.
Zion walked over and stared into the pan. The mixture inside looked… unholy.
"…Are you trying to resurrect the tomatoes?"
Haru puffed up her cheeks. "It's scrambled eggs! Just… a little creative."
---
Eventually, they sat at the table with the so-called "scrambled eggs." Haru beamed at Zion.
"Go on, try it! You'll love it!"
Zion raised an eyebrow. "You first."
"No way! This is specially made for you!" Haru shook her head like a drum.
After three seconds of silence, Zion picked up a piece and calmly put it in her mouth.
…Silence again.
Haru leaned in nervously. "S-So? How is it?"
Zion swallowed, then said flatly, "Next time, we'll cook together."
"Hey! That means you think it's gross!" Haru pouted. "I worked so hard on it!"
Zion turned to her, a flicker of amusement in her eyes. "Mm. You worked hard. At least… it's survivable."
---
Haru gasped and lunged at her, tickling her waist. "You're making fun of me!"
Zion's lips finally curved into a laugh. She caught Haru and pulled her into her arms.
"Child."
Face buried in her chest, Haru mumbled, "Then next time you have to teach me. No laughing allowed."
Zion lowered her head, gently touching her forehead against Haru's.
"Alright. I'll only laugh… for you."