Ren met him in the doorway, offering a soft smile. But as Kaito's gaze dropped and his expression darkened, that smile slowly faded. Ren said nothing, simply stepping back to give Kaito space.

Kaito's breath caught in his throat. He didn't want to talk about it - couldn't find the words even if he tried. Ren seemed to understand. He turned and retrieved a bowl from the counter, placing it gently in front of Kaito without a word.

The apartment was quiet. Kaito sat at the small table and began to eat, spooning broth in measured, shaky sips. Ren watched him silently.

After taking a few bites, Kaito looked up. "You should eat," he said softly, nodding towards the food.

Ren shook his head, his eyes kind but distant. "I'm not hungry."

Kaito frowned but said nothing more, returning to his noodles. Across the table, Ren simply watched, offering quiet companionship in place of words. Ren remained there, silent and attentive. The only sound was the spoon clinking against Kaito's bowl as Kaito ate.

After a long pause, Ren finally cleared his throat and asked softly, "Did you have a good day?"

Kaito froze, chopsticks midway to his mouth. He stared into the steaming broth as though searching for answers in the noodles. At last, he whispered, "No."

Ren's face softened with concern. "I'm sorry," he said quietly, offering only his understanding rather than words of advice. The gentle silence that followed felt less empty now, and Kaito found himself drawing comfort from Ren's quiet presence.

Once Kaito finished the last spoonful of soup, he set his bowl aside and rose to his feet. He reached for the edge of the table, determined to clear the dishes himself. But before he could blink, Ren was already beside him - hand wrapped around Kaito's bowl, lifting it gently. Kaito didn't hear a chair scrape or see Ren move; one moment he was standing, the next Ren was guiding him back toward this seat.

"It's okay," Ren said, placing the bowl on the counter. "I'll take care of the dishes and leftovers. You need to rest your ankle."

Kaito's eyes widened with surprise and gratitude. He sank back onto the chair, his ankle throbbing but comforted by Ren's quiet efficiency. As Ren gathered plates and wiped the table, Kaito closed his eyes and allowed himself to lean into the silence.