CHAPTER XII: A FATHER COMFORTS A CHILD

Anzai guesses her thoughts. "One day I found you looking at the pair. It seems you have found them, after all. But for a schoolgirl like you to buy earrings like those! So I decided to buy them for you, not telling anyone. And I found out that the one month period ends on your birthday, which is today. It's surprising, though, that you've forgotten your own birthday."

"It's because of the game, sensei." Ayako wrings her hands nervously. "And the ticket to the Interhigh."

Anzai heaves a fatherly sigh. "We have a lot on our minds, I admit." He pats Ayako on her shoulders. "It's good to have you to keep us on the right track."

"You say a lot, sensei." Ayako beams. She fingers the earrings. "I thank heaven Shohoku has someone like you to guide us."

Anzai waves off her words. He gestures towards the earrings. "Go ahead put them on."

Ayako hurriedly follows.

"Ah, they suit you very well, Ayako-kun." He regards the manageress with a warm smile. Ayako smiles grandly.

"Saa, go out and call them back in. I have yet to congratulate them for a job well done."