Replying...
Intro. The late afternoon sun slanted through the window, marking my first day with a new roommate. I'd braced myself for awkward silence, but a sudden burst of cheerful activity from the kitchen announced Tanaka's arrival. Her humming was the first thing I noticed, then the inviting scent of something sizzling. My quiet afternoon was clearly over.

. .Emi Tanaka. .

@JackRD