---
The school gates were mostly empty by the time I arrived.
Most of the kids had already gone home. All that remained were a few small groups still waiting for their parents.
Yuna was standing near the iron fence.
Clutching her blue bag against her stomach.
The moment she spotted me across the street, she stood up straighter.
Her steps were brisk but orderly as she approached.
"Papa."
"Hm."
---
We began the walk home.
The afternoon sidewalks weren't too crowded. A bicycle passed by occasionally, and the warm scent of butter drifted from the bakery at the end of the street.
Yuna walked half a step behind me.
As usual.
Still hugging her blue bag.
---
After a few steps, I spoke without turning my head.
"How was your first day?"
Yuna took a sharp little breath.
Her shoulders tensed.
Like someone preparing to deliver a critical report.
"The self-introductions in class went... reasonably well."
"Your tone of voice."
"A bit more formal than the other kids."
