My father remarried. My new mother, Rieko, had a gentle voice and a smile that suited me perfectly. I still didn't know how to interact with her, and could only respond with an awkward smile. One day, when I was stuck in my studies, Rieko gently embraced me and, as if by magic, taught me in an easy-to-understand way. She even gently cleaned my ears while resting her head on my lap, showing me her soft scent and warmth.
