It Started with a Hello

iv

"I'm home, Mom," he droned out, kicking his shoes off by the door.

A woman, looking identical to Hanamiya stepped out into the hallway. Her hair was swept up into a tidy bun. "Welcome home, Sweetheart."

"How was the appointment?" he asked her as he followed her into the kitchen, where she was preparing dinner.

"It was fine. The doctor suggested chemotherapy."

"I think you should do it," Hanamiya said, grabbing some plates from the cabinet above him.

She sighed. "It's a bit pricey..."

"I'll get a job," he stated, "or two. You have a job, and Dad still sends checks."

"Those checks are for you," she said softly, looking at him.

"Then I'm giving you them."

"Makoto-"

"Mom!" he interrupted, slamming his fists on the counter, "Please, just do the chemotherapy."

She watched him for a few moments before sighing again. "Fine..."

...

They sat at the table, eating dinner.

"How's school?" His mom asked.

He shrugged. "There's been some girl that's been pestering me lately."

She grinned, and Hanamiya wished he hasn't said anything. "Oh? Does my little Makoto have an admirer?"

He snorted. "That's funny, Mom."

She shook her head in response, taking a bite of her food. "Nonsense. You did grow out to become handsome. Too bad you got your Dad's eyebrows, though."

"Mom," he groaned.

She laughed. "I'm just saying, Sweetie. This girl could have a crush on you."

God, he hoped she didn't.