The covered botanical greenhouse in Yoyogi was a gigantic glass dome where the air remained warm, dense, and humid, offering absolute refuge against the icy wind outside. The winter sunlight filtered through the translucent panels, casting the shadows of giant ferns, exotic orchids, and bamboos across the polished stone pathways.
Aibek walked among the vegetation with his eyes wide open, amazed by the lush green color. The warm environment had allowed him to take off his heavy jacket, leaving him in just the gray sweatshirt that fit slightly oversized on his shoulders. His initial timidity was beginning to dissipate amidst low giggles and playful murmurs every time Zinov pointed out a rare species of flower or explained the care of tropical plants in a unhurried voice.
