Chapter 1 - Beginnings Abroad

The Arrival

For Kenji, the bustling streets of Osaka were a world away from the quiet, tree-lined suburb of Pennsylvania he called home. A 21-year-old college student with a penchant for exploring cultures and indulging in life’s pleasures, he was intrigued by the idea of hosting an international exchange student. When his family signed up for the Erasmus program, he had no idea how it might change his life.

Then, she arrived.

Her name was Aiko, a 17-year-old exchange student from Japan. She was petite—barely five feet tall—with a delicate frame and an unmistakable shyness that added to her charm. Her almond-shaped eyes, glossy black hair, and soft, melodic voice immediately caught Kenji’s attention. But what struck him most was how out of place she seemed, dragging her suitcase up the driveway with quiet determination.

“Hi, I’m Kenji,” he greeted warmly, extending a hand.

She looked up, a blush creeping across her cheeks, and nodded. “I’m Aiko. Nice to meet you,” she said in halting English.


---

Settling In

Over the first few days, Kenji observed Aiko settling into the rhythms of American life. She was curious but reserved, carefully observing the unfamiliar customs and cautiously trying new things. Kenji’s family introduced her to their favorite meals: pancakes dripping with syrup, hearty casseroles, and creamy desserts. Aiko was polite, always accepting small portions, but Kenji noticed something—her face would light up with delight every time she tried something new.

One evening, after a dinner of homemade lasagna, Kenji found her in the kitchen, peeking into the fridge. She quickly shut the door when she noticed him, her cheeks flushed.

“Looking for something?” he asked, amused.

“No,” she stammered. “Just… water.”

Kenji chuckled. “You don’t have to be shy, Aiko. If you’re hungry, help yourself. That’s the American way.”

Her lips curled into a timid smile, and she nodded. That moment lingered in Kenji’s mind. Aiko was adjusting, slowly but surely.


---

A Shift in Dynamics

By the end of her first month, the change was subtle but noticeable. Aiko’s cheeks seemed a touch rounder, her thighs slightly fuller against the fabric of her skirts. Kenji couldn’t help but notice the way her appetite had grown. She started to accept second helpings at dinner, her hesitation replaced by curiosity and enjoyment.

One day, while helping her with homework, Kenji asked casually, “How are you liking the food here?”

Aiko hesitated, twirling her pen. “It’s… delicious. Very different from Japan. I think… I eat too much.”

Kenji laughed. “Trust me, it’s normal. American portions are huge. Besides, you look great.”

Her blush deepened, and she quickly changed the subject, but Kenji noticed the way her lips curled into a small, pleased smile.


---

Three Kilograms Later

By the end of her first month, Aiko had gained a modest three kilograms. It wasn’t much, but on her small frame, the difference was noticeable. Her school uniform fit a little snugger, her blouses pulling slightly across her chest. Her lower body—always her softest feature—began to show the faintest curve, her hips rounding ever so slightly. Kenji couldn’t deny that the change suited her.

One evening, as they sat on the couch watching a movie, Kenji offered her a bowl of buttery popcorn. She hesitated, then accepted, her small hand dipping into the bowl more often than he expected.

“You’re getting used to this, huh?” he teased lightly.

Aiko looked down, embarrassed. “Maybe too much.”

“Nah,” Kenji said, his voice warm. “You’re perfect the way you are.”

Her eyes met his, wide with surprise. For a moment, neither of them spoke. The air between them felt charged, a silent understanding passing between them. It was the beginning of something neither of them fully understood yet—a dynamic that would shape the months