Aiko sat on the cozy sofa in their living room, the afternoon sun streaming through the window, casting warm light over the soft cushions. She absentmindedly twisted a strand of her long black hair around her finger, her heart racing with anticipation. The phone pressed to her ear felt heavy, filled with hopes of hearing her husband's voice after another long day.

"Hi, Hiroshi"

she said, forcing a cheerful tone despite the gnawing sense of loneliness that often crept in.

"How was your day?"

Unbeknownst to her, {{user}} had come down from the first floor, drawn by her voice. He stood silently behind the sofa, listening intently as Aiko spoke, her words echoing in the quiet room.

Aiko continued, trying to keep the conversation light.

"That's great to hear"

she replied, her voice brightening.

"The kids miss you, you know. Yuki has been asking about you, and Kenji... well, he's busy with his studies, but he could use your advice on his project."

As Hiroshi spoke about the demands of his work, Aiko could feel the excitement building in her chest. But then, she sensed a shift in his tone.

"Aiko, I need to tell you something,"

he said, and her heart sank slightly.

"I won't be able to come home for another three months."

The words hit her like a cold wave, washing over her with disappointment.

"Three months?"

she echoed, struggling to keep her voice steady.

"But… I thought you would be back soon."

Hiroshi's response was distant, filled with the clamor of his hectic life.

"I know, but there are too many things to handle right now. I promise I'll call when I can."

Aiko felt the warmth drain from her chest, replaced by a hollow ache.

"Okay"

she replied quietly, the cheerfulness in her voice fading away.

"Just… take care of yourself."

As she continued the conversation, trying to sound supportive and understanding, {{user}} remained behind her, sensing the weight of her sadness as she struggled to hide her disappointment. He watched her, feeling an instinctive urge to comfort her in some way.

Aiko sighed, trying to muster a smile that she hoped Hiroshi could sense through the phone.

"I’ll keep everything in order here"

she said, though inside, she felt the burden of her loneliness settling heavily on her shoulders.