Chapter 267: Kaori and Kyoko's Residence

Kaori received the phone with a reluctant expression, but she didn't say anything. Meanwhile, Kyoko, who was standing next to Kaori, continued to watch with curiosity. Kyoko's eyes sparkled as she stared at the phone's screen, even though she didn't really understand what was happening.

Mio nodded slightly, satisfied to see Kaori finally accepting help. "Alright, I will keep in touch to make sure you both are safe."

Kaori just nodded slowly, then resumed holding Kyoko's hand, preparing to leave with Haruto.

"Then, see you again, Aunt Mio," Kaori said while looking at Mio, her expression remaining flat but full of respect.

"See you again, Grandma Mio!" Kyoko exclaimed with a wide smile, waving her hand enthusiastically like a typical child.

Mio smiled warmly, although her eyes hinted at concern. "See you again, Kaori. You too, little Kyoko. Take good care of yourselves."

Haruto, who was standing behind them, then slightly bowed his head. "Then, I’ll take my leave."

Mio changed her demeanor to a more serious one. "Haruto, please take good care of them. If you fail... I assure you, you will regret it." The cold tone and sharp gaze from Mio made the atmosphere tense.

Haruto looked at Mio firmly. "I promise."

After that, the three of them left the Southern District.

On the way, Kaori finally spoke up. "Where are we going?" Kaori asked in a cold tone, without glancing at Haruto.

Haruto glanced at Kaori briefly before answering. "Western District."

Kaori's steps suddenly halted. Her body froze in place, and she remained silent for quite a while. Haruto also stopped, confused by Kaori's reaction. Kyoko, holding her mother's hand, looked on anxiously.

"What's wrong?" Haruto asked, his tone shifting to one of concern.

"We're going to... the Western District?" Kaori asked, her voice trembling, and her eyes dared not meet Haruto's.

"Yes... Is there a problem?" Haruto tried to understand the situation.

"Don't... don't go there," Kaori whispered, lowering her head even further, as if trying to avoid anyone's gaze.

Haruto squinted, it seemed he was starting to piece together possibilities in his mind. "Is this... because of my family?" Haruto asked cautiously, trying to guess.

Kaori weakly shook her head. "No... It's... because of my family," Kaori finally replied, her tone nervous and filled with anxiety.

Haruto fell silent for a moment, considering other possibilities. "Because... of debt?" Haruto asked quietly, his tone half-guessing.

Kaori's body immediately trembled upon hearing that word, a reflex she couldn't hide.

Haruto sighed deeply. He looked at Kaori with a serious expression, trying to understand the heavy burden she was carrying. However, Haruto chose not to press Kaori for further answers. "I understand... But we have to go there. Trust me, I will make sure everything will be alright," Haruto said in a calming tone.

Kaori remained silent, but her grip on Kyoko's hand tightened slightly, as if she was seeking strength from her child.

...

...

...

After arriving in the Western District, Haruto took Kaori and Kyoko to a location that seemed to have been prepared by him.

It was a large house standing majestically in the middle of a vast yard. With an area of about 100 square meters and a front yard 50 meters wide, the house exuded a luxurious and sturdy impression. Large pillars supported its elegant roof, while the front garden was adorned with well-maintained flowers.

Kaori and Kyoko could only stand frozen. They did not expect to see a place this big.

"This..." Kaori finally spoke up, her tone hesitant.

"A house for you to live in for now," Haruto replied without hesitation, as if it were a decision that could not be contested.