The following morning, Ichika arrived early at Ichizawa's Diner, preparing ingredients for the day. The scent of simmering broth filled the small space, wrapping it in warmth.
As she adjusted the chairs, the bell above the door jingled. A little girl, no older than eight, peeked inside hesitantly. She had pigtails and clutched a small notebook to her chest.
"Good morning," Ichika greeted warmly, kneeling to meet the girl's gaze. "Are you lost?"
The girl shook her head. "Are you… the lady who makes people happy with food?"
Ichika blinked in surprise before chuckling. "I try my best. What's your name?"
"Miko." The girl hesitated before pushing the notebook toward Ichika. "Can you make this?"
Ichika opened the notebook. Inside was a messy, childlike drawing of a steaming bowl of soup. Next to it were simple words: Mama's Special Udon.
Ichika's heart softened. "Is this your mother's recipe?"
Miko nodded vigorously. "Mama used to make it for me, but she went to the hospital a long time ago. Papa tries, but it never tastes the same…"
Ichika studied the drawing. It wasn't much to go on, but she could see the rough outline of noodles, green onions, and something that looked like fish cake.
She smiled. "I'll do my best. Take a seat."
Miko climbed onto a stool, watching as Ichika worked. She boiled the udon, carefully tasting the broth, adding just the right amount of soy sauce and dashi. The final touch—a sprinkle of green onions, just as in the drawing.
Ichika placed the bowl in front of Hana. "Give it a try."
Miko took a small sip. Her eyes widened.
"It's… almost like Mama's." She looked up, eyes glistening. "Can you teach Papa how to make it?"
Ichika felt a warmth spread through her chest. "Of course. Bring him here tomorrow, and I'll show him."
As Miko ate happily, Ichika realized something—food wasn't just about taste. It was about memories, comfort, and love.
And sometimes, a simple bowl of udon could bring someone a little closer to home.