Arriving at the [Suzuya] tavern, I entered the building to meet Nimi, who was probably preparing for opening.
Since it had not yet opened, the floor was empty and only the sounds of cooking echoed from the kitchen in the back.
Pricking up my ears I could hear voices talking with someone, and advancing toward the kitchen I realized she was speaking with Pafa.
With my cheeks loosening at the happy voices, I entered the kitchen and saw Pafa clinging to Nimi from behind while she cooked.
Nimi, while cooking, turned her face sideways, peeked at Pafa's face and smiled; Pafa also smiled softly and was handing over seasonings and such that Nimi had asked for.
Smiling at such a peaceful scene, I called out to the two.
"I'm home, Nimi, Pafa."
"Ah, Raide-san, welcome home."
"Welcome… home, Raide."
Approaching the two I lightly hugged them both together, then immediately released them.
Nimi was cooking and handling fire, and Pafa was helping, so I thought I would get in the way.
