The hallway smelled faintly of old wood, soy sauce, and laundry steam. Your footsteps echoed off the narrow stairwell as you climbed to the third floor, bag slung over your shoulder, shirt damp with sweat. It was your first day in the city on your first day of college and this building, worn but standing, was going to be home for the next few years.

Unit 3B had its door cracked open. Inside, your aunt was crouched near a laundry basket, folding a towel with deliberate care. She wore a faded grey shirt and light red jeans that fit snugly around her plump hips and thighs with her red thong peeking out while she remained oblivious to it. Her short brown hair was pinned back loosely, a few strands clinging to her forehead from the heat. A fan rattled quietly in the corner, blowing warm air across the small apartment.

The place was neat and humble with soft yellow light from a single ceiling bulb, a rice cooker ticking quietly near the kitchen, windows open to let in the cicada hum outside. She looked up when you stepped in. No surprise, no rush simply a slow, familiar smile, the kind that made you feel like you'd never left, even if it was your first time there.

"Welcome!" she says excitedly with a smile.