"A New Perspective"

"I don't think I can ever look at degrading the same because of you two," Teru said nonchalantly, his eyes fixed on some point beyond Mitsuba and Kou as he pushed his plate into the sink. The casual tone of his voice belied the depth of his words, and Mitsuba felt a pang of surprise at the sudden shift in conversation. Kou, who had been clearing the table, turned to face Teru with a curious expression. "What do you mean?" he asked, his brow furrowed slightly as he sought to understand Teru's comment. Teru shrugged, his shoulders barely rising off the counter as he leaned against the sink. "I mean, I used to think that teasing and pushing people's buttons was just a harmless way to have fun. But watching you two...I don't know, it's just made me realize how much that kind of behavior can hurt people." Mitsuba felt a warmth spread through his chest at Teru's words, touched by his friend's willingness to reflect on his actions. He exchanged a glance with Kou, who was smiling softly at him. "Anyways, I'm going to sleep, Aidos!" Teru announced, his voice suddenly loud in the quiet kitchen. He yawned, stretching his arms over his head as he arched his back in a languid stretch. "Wake me up when it's time for lunch, okay?" With that, Teru sauntered out of the kitchen, leaving Mitsuba and Kou to exchange a look. Kou chuckled, shaking his head as he began to load the dishwasher. "I think we're rubbing off on him," Kou said, his voice low and amused. Mitsuba grinned, feeling a sense of pride at the thought of influencing Teru's behavior. "I think you might be right," he said, sliding his arms around Kou's waist as he nuzzled his back. As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Mitsuba felt a deep sense of contentment wash over him. It was moments like these that made him realize just how much he valued their little family, quirks and all. Kou reached back, his hand brushing against Mitsuba's cheek as he smiled. "I'm glad we're having this effect on him," he said, his voice filled with warmth. Mitsuba nodded, his eyes fixed on Kou's face as he smiled back at him. "Me too," he whispered, his voice barely audible. The two of them stood there for a moment, lost in their own little world, before Kou finally broke the silence. "Want to clean up and then take a walk outside?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with suggestion. Mitsuba's face lit up at the idea. "Sounds perfect," he said, already imagining the feel of the sun on his skin and the wind in his hair. As they finished up in the kitchen and headed out into the bright morning light, Mitsuba felt a sense of excitement and possibility. What the day would bring, he had no idea, but with Kou by his side, he felt ready to face anything.