After an exhausting duel, Lucas sat on the veranda of the Takagi family home, trying to catch his breath. He could feel soreness creeping into his entire body, especially his arms, which had taken the brunt of Souichiro's strikes.
Takagi sat beside him, looking worried. "Lucas, are you okay?"
Lucas forced a smile. "I think I'll be fine… after two or three weeks of recovery."
Souichiro chuckled. "You're tough enough to endure. That alone proves your capability."
At that moment, Yuriko appeared from inside the house, carrying a tray with two cups of warm tea. She handed one to Lucas. "You must be tired. Drink this—it will help your body relax."
Lucas gratefully accepted the cup. "Thank you, Mrs. Takagi."
Yuriko smiled. "Just call me Yuriko."
Lucas nodded politely. He took a sip of the tea, feeling the warmth spread through his body.
After a moment, Souichiro spoke again. "How about you join us for dinner tonight? As a guest, it's only proper that you enjoy a family meal with us."
Takagi looked a bit surprised. "Huh? Dad, you rarely invite people for dinner."
Souichiro smirked. "I don't meet young men as interesting as him every day."
Lucas gave a small smile, flattered by the invitation. However, his body was completely exhausted from the duel. He knew that if he stayed, he would only feel more drained and might not even be able to enjoy the meal properly.
Placing his teacup on the table, Lucas sighed. "Thank you for the invitation, sir, ma'am. But I think I'll have to decline for tonight. My body is aching all over, and I just want to go home and rest."
Takagi looked at him with concern. "Are you sure you can get home on your own?"
Lucas smiled. "I can still walk. I just need a good night's rest."
Yuriko looked a little disappointed but maintained her gentle smile. "Alright, if that's your decision. But next time, you must come for dinner, understand?"
Lucas nodded. "Of course, next time I'd be happy to join."
Souichiro chuckled. "Alright, go on then. But remember, if you ever want to train more seriously, our dojo is always open for you."
Slowly, Lucas stood up, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle into his muscles. Takagi stood up as well, still looking a bit worried.
"I'll walk you to the gate," she said.
Lucas didn't refuse. Together, they walked toward the entrance, leaving Souichiro and Yuriko behind.
After a few steps, Takagi finally spoke. "Lucas… Thank you for coming today. I know my father can be a bit much, but he just wants to make sure I'm in good hands."
Lucas smiled tiredly. "I understand. Besides, it was an interesting experience."
Takagi glanced at him, hesitating slightly. "So… when are we going on another date?"
Lucas let out a small laugh. "After I can move my body without pain, okay?"
Takagi chuckled. "Alright, I'll wait."
As they reached the gate, Lucas looked at Takagi for a moment before raising his hand in farewell. "See you, Takagi."
Takagi smiled. "See you, Lucas. Make sure to get plenty of rest."
Lucas nodded and started walking home, his body feeling heavy, but his mind feeling lighter.