Compensation (Family Line)

Eri burst out laughing and reached over to pinch his arm. She barely used any force.

"Don't give me that. You were in the United States for half a month, and don't think I'm blind. You were in California eating steak and drinking red wine every day, while I was at home throwing up so badly I couldn't even swallow water."

She deliberately drew out the last syllable, her voice thick with coy reproach.

Nakayama Takuya took her hand and wrapped it in his palm.

"My fault. From now on, even if Wall Street collapses, I'll stay home with you."

"You said it." Eri clasped his hand in return, the pad of her finger rubbing over the back of it. "Tomorrow's the follow-up. If the doctor says I've gained weight, you're taking responsibility."

As the two of them chatted idly, the sound of wooden clogs striking the floor came from behind them.

Nakayama Miyuki walked over carrying a plate of sliced fruit and set it on the small table between them.

"Takuya's back." Miyuki glanced at her son, then turned to her daughter-in-law. "Eri, have some fruit. Is your appetite better today?"

"Much better, Mother." Eri let go of Takuya's hand and picked up a piece of apple. "Everything's tasted good these past few days. I even stole two more of Kazuki's puddings."

Miyuki smiled so broadly she could hardly close her mouth.

"Being able to eat is a good thing. You were like this when you were pregnant with Kazuki too. Once the first three months passed, your appetite opened right up. Takuya, keep more of an eye on Kazuki. Don't let him cling to Eri all the time."

"I'm watching him." Nakayama Takuya picked up a piece of melon and handed it to Eri.

There was movement from