Today's the day. It's going to be perfect. The sun was shining brightly. Kaneki blinked his uncovered eye in irritation as it temporarily blinded him. Once he had adjusted to the light he was able to admire the scenery. It had been a while since the last time the sky was this blue. Maybe it had never been this blue before. He smiled.

"Couldn't have asked for a better day, huh?"

Hide's fingers were twined together behind his head.

"You sure you don't want to go somewhere with a bit more action? We could check out that laser tag place across town."

Kaneki shrugged and chuckled.

"I think I have enough action in my life. I'm happy with our plans as they are. Besides, Hinami has been looking forward to this."

The petite female ghoul clutched a canvas bag to her chest and grabbed Kaneki's hand eagerly.

"Onii-chan? Did you really mean what you said?"

"Absolutely, anything you want. It's my treat."

"Within reason, Hinami-chan," Touka reasoned with the child diplomatically "we don't have that much money."

"I understand, Onee-chan. I just want one book. Then we can read it together later right?"

"Right, Hinami-chan."

Touka patted her head affectionately then pulled away with annoyance as Hide invaded her personal space.

"I can't believe you're really coming with us! I'll buy you a gift, Touka-san! I'm flush with cash, anything you want is yours!"

"Very well, how much for your silence?"

Kaneki couldn't help but laugh as Hide's face fell. He bounced back just as quickly.

"Don't worry, Touka-chan. When we're married one day we'll look back on these moments with fondness."

Touka rolled her eyes.

"I can't wait."

"I know right!" Hide chirped unperturbed by her biting sarcasm.

Kaneki felt himself getting tugged on. Hinami was pulling on him somewhat impatiently.

"Come on, Onii-chan! I want to get there as soon as possible."

"Calm down Hinami-chan. The store doesn't close until 8:30pm. We have plenty of time."

"Touka, it's alright. I understand being excited. Let's get going, shall we?"

An elder woman by the name of Sophie mumbled to herself as she pulled another handful of bird seed from her bag.

"Eat up, boys!"

The hungry pigeons flocked to her and pecked eagerly at the feast she had presented to them. Her avian companions were temporarily disturbed as a little girl walked by. She uttered a small "Oh" as they took flight all at once.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be, dear, they'll come back when they figured out it's safe."

"I have a pet bird too."

"You do? That's very special."

"His name is Loser!"

Sophie laughed whole heartedly until tears rolled down her cheeks.

"Loser? That's one hell of name. I like it. It gives him character!"

The teen girl holding the child's hand spoke up.

"Come on, Hinami, we don't want to bother this nice lady." She bowed politely. "Have a nice day, ma'am."

Sophie nodded at them.

"You too, dear! Bless your hearts."

Sophie watched them go with a wistful expression. What nice kids and there's a human with them. Fascinating.