Author's Note: A little late for Valentine's Day, but I had to take care of some things and I realized I needed to add a scene. Last stop before the angst train, so please let me know what you think!
Koshijiro made the proposition over breakfast. "Kaoru? When would you like to celebrate your birthday?"
"Huh? It's already August." She sipped from her bowl of miso, raising her eyebrows.
"It is overdue, but I was absent for last year's as well. If you'd like, we can spend a day in town. I'll cover every expense."
Immediately, she brightened. "Then, why don't we all do something at the end of the week? How does Friday sound?" She looked across the table, meeting the eyes of the others.
Sagara was the first to decline. "Actually, I already had plans with Katsu and some other guys. Hope you have fun though."
"Same, I signed up for an extra shift at the Akabeko." Yahiko resumed shoveling rice grains into his mouth. "Sorry."
"Oh, it's alright. And of course, Megumi probably has patients." Kaoru's gaze drifted towards the empty space where the doctor usually sat. She was diving into her work lately, especially since there was no progress from Aizu yet. The only update was that the department was continuing to scour through reports of missing persons.
"This one will come along." Himura spoke up. His voice didn't betray any eagerness, but his smile widened. Even more so, when Kaoru leaned towards him with a delighted expression.
Koshijiro gave a slight nod. "So, it will be the three of us." In fact, he couldn't complain. He had meant to address a particular hand-squeezing incident. The weekend was spent recovering from travel, and it felt like time was slipping away beneath them.
"It'll be fun!" Kaoru began to clear away the dishes. "Kenshin, do you know what season you were born in?"
He blinked at her, obviously surprised by the question. "Oro? This one thinks it was summer, in June."
June was also the month Kaoru was born in. She beamed, reveling in the similarity. "Really? Me too! Why don't we celebrate together? Right, Otou-san?"
"I don't see why not. Then, let's plan for Friday."
Fortunately, it was a pleasant morning; white clouds billowed across the sky, a refreshing wind cooling their faces as they walked out of the house. Although Koshijiro didn't mention it, he noticed that his daughter had dressed up. Her lips were tinted with the Kyoto rouge, and she wore a kimono he'd rarely seen. It was a very light blue, mizu-iro, and like water itself, the fabric was smooth and sleek. Her ponytail was bound in the flower-patterned ribbon that Himura had won for her.
"Kaoru-dono, what do you have in mind for today?" To an outsider, Himura wasn't acting out of the ordinary. However, his gaze had lingered on her hair when she left her room and his smile hadn't faltered at all.
"I have some ideas but I was thinking about visiting Okaa-san's grave first." She glanced at Koshijiro.
A bittersweet feeling overcame him. The sorrowful ache over Kyoko's absence, the wistfulness that she could see their girl now, and pride for Kaoru's filial piety. "If we do, I'd like to buy flowers for her. I tended the family plot while you were away, but the deutzia must have withered already."
This time, chrysanthemums were abundant and a bright yellow cluster was suitable. The headstones didn't need another scrubbing, but Kaoru lit incense for all three before addressing her mother's. "Hi, Okaa-san." She softly greeted, clasping her hands together. "I came home safely, with Otou-san and Kenshin. Oh, Kenshin, you've never been here before."
"No, but this one will pay respects too." He mirrored her, bowing his head. It was a kind gesture, and Kaoru gave a little smile before resuming.
A breeze swept through, carrying the incense's fragrance, and Koshijiro closed his eyes. No one spoke, and when Kaoru made a slight movement, they quietly shuffled away together.
"Okaa-san never went to the old capital." She thoughtfully mused. "I think she would have liked touring around."
"She was certainly curious. Years ago, before you were born, we read novels that were set in Kyoto. I can't recall any of the titles now though."
"Because you were completely focused on Okaa-san." His daughter gave a knowing grin. "Speaking of which, I'd like to buy more books. I've run out of reading material, and Tae wrote me a list of recommendations."
There were plenty of bookstores, but their favorite place required a longer walk. It had been established at the beginning of the Meiji era, and the growing translations of Western texts had earned a separate shelf. Kaoru took her time perusing, Himura trailing behind. From Koshijiro's observations, he didn't read as much for pleasure, and while he looked about in his usual mild-mannered way, he only skimmed the titles.
"They're rarer, but books of kenjutsu can be located in the back corner." Koshijiro abruptly said. "If you're interested, Himura-san."
He seemed to consider it. "This one didn't have a formal education in the sword. Shishou is…blunt in his explanations, and after this one left, there was even less from this one's superiors."
"I have no doubts regarding your skill and experience, but there is value in recognizing the history. It is never too late to learn."
"That is certainly what a teacher would say." Himura smiled. "And what about Kamiya Kasshin's book?"
Koshijiro was surprised. "You've read it?"
"He was in the dojo when I showed Yahiko a few pages." Kaoru clarified. "Yesterday, Yahiko wanted to know more about the succession techniques. You were at work, so I brought out the book. And you've already started adding the one-handed version!"
"The three kata I have worked out so far, and Hizadome. I may have to edit in the future. It isn't as polished as the books that are published."
"Well, nobody else could write about 'the sword that protects life'." Kaoru argued. Perhaps unconsciously, they had drifted to the back corner. "Every page conveyed your true thoughts, Otou-san. Even Yahiko said it was like he was hearing your voice."
"This one agrees. Kamiya-dono's words were forthright and thorough. If there were previous edits, this one could not tell." Himura lifted a volume, inspecting the cover. "Is this a good one for history?"
Kaoru burst into laughter, and Koshijiro answered. "It's intended for beginners. But it was a favorite of Kaoru's when she was younger."
"I still have my copy at home." She managed to say.
"Ah, is that so? May this one borrow yours?"
"Of course!"
Kaoru had chosen two slim books for her own leisure, and while she paid, Koshijiro tucked them under his arm. He ignored her sound of protest. "Don't worry, I'll hold them."
"Otou-san…" She rolled her eyes but continued to lead on.
They spent the next hour in the marketplace, discovering what was newly available. Artisans were advertising their latest creations, woodblocks and pottery and metalworks. A store selling beauty products had opened, but the sight of the long line caused them to steer clear. The little detour took them past a kimono shop, and when Kaoru lingered, Koshijiro nodded.
"Let's go inside. You deserve a new outfit."
"I don't really need anything new!"
"And I owe you for two birthdays. I said I would cover every expense." He stepped past her to enter the quaint building. The employees called out a greeting, which he easily returned. The interior was well-organized, and there was a wealth of options. Towards the front, the dyes were vivid, brightly suitable for young girls. Further within, there were stands that showcased lavish formal attire, though the majority were targeted for women with families of their own. The summer yukata were giving way to the warmer colors and weaves for autumn. Nothing was obviously Western, but some of the patterns were more modern, experimenting with recent fashion.
"Geez, Otou-san's survival was enough of a present." Kaoru grumbled. "Oh…this is pretty." She had caved, her fingertips hovering over a bolt of green fabric. Himura looked over her shoulder, examining it as well.
A matronly woman, a few years older than Koshijiro, approached. Her bearing was the picture of self-assurance; she seemed to be the shopkeeper and addressed Kaoru. "We have limited supply of that silk, but we can tailor what we have to fit you. Would you be willing to have your measurements taken? Your father and husband can wait here."
Koshijiro struggled to maintain a neutral face, while Kaoru blushed. "Well, you're half right. Otou-san, Kenshin, I'll be right back." She followed the shopkeeper to the rear end, behind a folding screen for privacy. Soon enough, she was chatting with the seamstresses, who thought her eyes were pretty.
Himura's face was turned away from Koshijiro, so his expression couldn't be discerned. A cloud of awkward silence descended. Koshijiro gave a cursory scan to the rest of the place, but anything would have looked suitable on his daughter.
"You seem to be at a loss, Kamiya-dono." Himura quietly noted.
"If there were kenjutsu uniforms, I could help in choosing. Otherwise, I am useless in these matters."
Himura smiled. "You say that, but you are a doting father."
Embarrassed, he deflected. "It's also what her mother would have done." If Kyoko was living, the two of them would have enjoyed picking out clothes together, like how they did in the past. Kyoko's features had livened up, Kaoru grinning as she showed off what she was interested in.
"From her portrait, she looked like a gentle person. Kaoru-dono resembles her very much."
"Yes, that's true." Koshijiro paused. "And like my wife did, Kaoru displays her emotions freely. It is easy for her to befriend people, and she's usually the one who first reaches out. When we came home, I noticed that you took her hand."
A heartbeat followed, as Himura broke eye contact. However, he wasn't trying to escape Koshijiro's gaze; instead, he extended his fingers, recalling the moment. "In this one's duel with Shishio, this one was close to death. This one had near misses in the past, but it was the first time it was extremely dire. And amidst the encroaching darkness, Kaoru-dono's words resonated. To go home together, to return to Tokyo together. That thought compelled this one to summon the last of his strength. This one could not have won, without the will to live."
"You've already told Kaoru this." He phrased it like a question, though he had overheard the tail end of their conversation.
"Yes. When we were finally back and she offered her hand, it was…important to this one. It felt like this one's deepest wish was heard. This one intended to share that sentiment, to tell her the journey to Kyoto was finally over and not in vain."
"We understood you didn't want to leave, but we couldn't let you endure the burden alone. That is what family means." Koshijiro resolutely said. "So, was that all you felt, when you held her hand?"
Himura stared at him. His expression was usually carefully placid, but for an instant, there was a slip in his composure. He knew what Koshijiro was implying, the unspoken question of what he felt for Kaoru.
"Alright, I'm done!" Kaoru interrupted, walking briskly towards them.
Himura's answer would have to wait another day, and he inquired. "How did it go?"
"It was nice to feel, but the price is beyond our budget. I'll keep looking." She insisted. Half an hour later, she settled on a soft gold like the color of the harvest moon, embroidered with five-petaled vermillion flowers, falling towards the hem. It would be elegant, and the price was reasonable. The shop informed them it would be ready in a couple weeks, and they took their leave.
At the end of the street, there was another shop, with a wider range of clothing. Judging by the view offered through a glass window, the attire was targeted more towards men.
"Look, they have Western hats." Kaoru was intrigued. "I wonder if they were made here or shipped from overseas."
"Would you like a hat, Kaoru-dono?"
"Not for me, but I think you could wear one." She smiled thoughtfully. "Soon, it'll be getting colder, and a hat will keep your head warm."
"This one wouldn't know how to decide." He demurred.
Koshijiro seized the opportunity to suggest. "It doesn't have to be a hat. You can choose whatever you'd like. Every expense includes yours."
Himura was taken aback. "Oro?!"
"This is also your birthday outing, and you deserve to have clothes of your own. Please, go ahead. Or if there's another place you'd rather visit, we can follow."
"No, this one has no issue with this store, but…" He scratched the back of his neck, uncharacteristically flustered. "Thank you. Kaoru-dono and Kamiya-dono, this one is grateful for your kindness."
There were more customers here, but that was alright; Himura already knew what he wanted. A gi for the impending fall season, possibly thick enough to wear in the winter too.
The task sparked Kaoru's enthusiasm. "This purple isn't too bad, but…no, it reminds me of eggplant and not the fresh kind. Or what about stripes?" She held the fabric to Himura's chest, trying to determine if it was suitable. Was it the crowdedness or was Himura blushing?
In the end, they decided on red, very similar to his favorite. The owner was fascinated by Himura's coloring and believed that outfitting him would make for excellent publicity. A flat gray hat was added to the bargain, almost for free. The gi's sleeves had to be adjusted before they left, and Koshijiro paid the total while Himura was being fitted.
He sensed his daughter's gaze and cut a glance to her. "What is it?"
"Nothing! I'm happy." She beamed, throwing her arms around him in a hug.
He smiled at the top of her head. The part in her hair brought up a memory of when she was a baby, sleeping against his shoulder. "That's all I ask."
At this point, it was lunchtime, and they stopped by home to drop off the new purchases. Kaoru hurried into her room, grabbing her kenjutsu book and offering it with one hand. "Here, Kenshin. Take good care of it, okay?"
"This one will." He accepted the copy, but she seemed to hesitate. In fact, she looked shy.
"Um, I have something else for you." Her other hand was behind her back, and she slowly revealed a folded square. "I started sewing after the battle, but I was able to finish it last night. It's a handkerchief."
"Kaoru-dono…" He visibly swallowed, gently taking it from her fingers. He held one corner, letting the fabric cascade. "It's beautiful."
The handkerchief was between blue and gray, with an embroidery of maple leaves along the diagonal crease. The impression was that the leaves were floating on a pond's surface or tossed into an overcast sky. Koshijiro thought it was fine work.
"I'm just glad you like it." Kaoru nervously laughed.
"This one does. Very much." He was focused on her, intensely so. Then, he jolted. "This one also had a gift, though it doesn't compare. This one intended to surprise you but would you like to see it now?"
"I'd love to. Kenshin, I didn't expect you to do anything." She said, as he led the way into the yard. Specifically, the shed.
He opened the door. "This one didn't exactly work on it. In the market, this one spotted the first and requested the entire set."
Kaoru was standing in front, and she gasped, rushing to the left wall. When she knelt, Koshijiro saw what she had received. A row of four clay pots, each containing a pair of white lilies. "Are these for the garden?"
"Yes, this one intended to plant them later today…" He crouched as well, an arm's length away.
"It can wait, today's for celebrating." She leaned close to the petals, breathing in the sweet perfume.
"That's true. Happy birthday, two months late."
"And happy birthday to you too. Thank you so much." Her smile was brilliant.
A few seconds passed, before Koshijiro made his presence known with a clearing of his throat. "The handkerchief and the lilies are both lovely. We can stay in for lunch, if you two prefer."
"Oh, no." Kaoru stood once more, brushing herself off. "I was looking forward to eating kushiyaki. The skewers in Kyoto weren't the same."
They had a pleasant meal in a grassy area, like an outdoor picnic. The grilled sweetfish and vegetables had the aroma of charcoal, and just the right amount of salt. With the rising heat, the refreshing texture of mizu yokan was appropriate for dessert. Once the small portions of lightly sweetened agar were finished off, they lingered to enjoy the weather before diving back into the bustle of town.
"Where are we headed to next?" Koshijiro asked.
Kaoru tapped her chin with her index finger. "The new theater always has plays, and I heard that a famous rakugo performer is having a show today." However, that plan never came to fruition.
"Hey, it's Kenshin!" A young boy called out, and a glimpse through the crowd revealed that it was Eiji. He was alone, shouldering a small sack, and he caught up to them. "Kamiya-san, it's been a while since I've seen you too. And you're Kamiya Kaoru, aren't you?"
Kaoru blinked. "That's right. I'm sorry, but I don't think we've met before."
"Eiji-kun is the boy who this one met on the road to Kyoto." Himura explained.
"Ah, so you're Eiji-kun! It's nice to meet you. Kenshin's already using the basket you made him."
Eiji was more bashful than Yahiko about compliments, and his ears reddened as he scuffed the dirt with his shoe. "That's good. Tokio-san said I can weave more in my free time. I don't want to forget knowing how, because Saito-san is going to train me soon."
"When he returns?" Himura attempted to clarify, but Eiji shook his head.
"He's already home."
"Oro?"
"What the heck?! But Otou-san, you said he wasn't at work this week." Kaoru turned to him.
"I wasn't aware he was in Tokyo." Even Koshijiro couldn't conceal his surprise. "No one at the station told me."
"Well, he showed up late last night. He didn't sleep in this morning either, but Tokio-san told me he needs to rest. Do you want to talk to him?"
Himura recovered first. "This one has been meaning to. However, it can wait until Saito has recovered."
"It's fine. He's acting like normal, anyway." Eiji took the quickest route. He was now accustomed to traversing the streets, and he looked like he had filled out, his appearance healthier. He had adjusted well to living in Tokyo.
When they reached the house, Tokio was sweeping the front step. Her eyes widened, and then, she smiled. "Eiji-kun, I only sent you to buy more buckwheat flour."
"I met them on the way back. Is it okay for them to visit?"
"I have no issue, but go and see him first. He's on a smoke break. Kamiya-san, I'm glad to see that you're well." She accepted the flour sack and gestured for them to step inside, introducing herself. "I'm Saito Tokio. Himura-san, I suppose, and you must be Kamiya Kaoru. It's a pleasure to finally meet you both."
"Likewise." Himura nodded. "Your husband has spoken very favorably of you."
At that moment, a loud pattering preceded the arrival of the youngest family member. Tsutomu stared at the unfamiliar faces, as he walked over to his mother.
"And this is Tsutomu." Tokio wryly said. "You remember Kamiya-san, don't you? And to the others, say hello."
"…H'lo."
Kaoru and Himura had been surprised by the little boy's appearance, but they met the toddler at eye level. Kaoru waved. "Hi there, Tsutomu-chan. You're a cutie, hm?"
Himura had extended his fingers, coaxing. "Can you shake?"
Tsutomu readily did, and his smile had more teeth than Koshijiro last recalled. He then turned to Kaoru, clutching her knee.
She looked to Tokio. "Is it alright if I hold him?"
"Yes, he seems to like you."
Kaoru lifted the boy by the armpits, rising to her feet as well, and easily perched him on her hip. "There we go!" Her pose was natural; when the dojo was filled with students, she would often play with the youngest children during breaks. She was occupied with making entertaining expressions, that she didn't notice Himura's considering stare.
Tokio lightly remarked. "I've actually wanted to talk with you, Kaoru-san. Your father can attest to that. Eiji-kun, why don't you show him and Himura-san to the yard?"
"Sure." Eiji dutifully obeyed, beckoning them to follow.
Saito was standing in the center, his left hand raised to his mouth. He was in such deep thought that he didn't immediately react when Eiji called out to him. Then, he did a double take and coughed on his cigarette. He had never lost his composure before. Smoke trailed out of his mouth, as he harshly asked. "What are you doing here?"
"Eiji-kun was kind enough to invite us." Koshijiro coolly replied. "Welcome back."
"It's good that you returned safely." Himura added. "This one hopes your mission was successful."
"Productive." He took another pull. "I accomplished my objective."
"Uncovering Shishio's supporters?"
"Yes. They've been dealt with, swiftly and appropriately. Nothing more, nothing less." His tone was ominous. "And how is your investigation progressing, Kamiya-san? Sawagejo reported that he's keeping surveillance on a Chinese company."
"There are some potential candidates among the higher-ups, but we haven't definitively identified the source yet."
"Keep me updated. All of the others denied knowledge of the warship's backer, even after persuasive measures. That isn't promising." It was an unusually honest admission.
"It would mean this person acted alone." Himura carefully said.
"Alone, on their own terms. Either Shishio was sticking his burnt fingers in darker business, or this person crept out of the shadows to make use of him. I can sense evil, but I can't grasp it." He crushed the remnants of his cigarette without flinching.
"Can this one assist?"
"Weren't you on the verge of death?" Saito bluntly retorted. "You must be deconditioned. Focus on your own ability, before you offer anything you can't give."
If Himura was annoyed, he didn't show it. Instead, he dipped his head. "You are well aware, of where you can find this one."
"And I'd like to be informed too." Koshijiro said. "The flow of information goes both ways. We can only help each other if we compare notes."
"Outside of the station. Not a word while we're on the clock." But Saito agreed. He walked towards them, placing a hand on Eiji's shoulder. "Eiji-kun can relay a message in an emergency."
"Because I'm his apprentice!" Eiji puffed up, proud of his new role.
"So, if you want notes, come and see them now."
Inside, the sound of laughter was audible; Kaoru and Tokio were sitting at the table, a tea tray between them. Tsutomu had found his way to his mother's lap, idly playing with a temari ball while the women conversed. Kaoru was in the midst of telling a story, and from the occasional sentence that drifted past, it was of a past tournament where Kamiya Kasshin had placed first among the participants.
Saito didn't stop, sliding a door that presumably led to his workspace. It was as organized as his space in the police department, and he unlocked a desk drawer with a small key, removing files. "Of course, I looked into the backgrounds of most of the Ten Swords. Sadojima and Komagata were of particular interest, since they were the primary negotiators for anyone who came into contact with the group."
Himura began sifting through. "Were there any from overseas?"
"Where would I even start?" Saito scoffed. "China itself is a vast nation, if that's what you were leading up to."
"It was, but this one doubts our mystery individual manipulated only Shishio. In other words, it is likely that Shishio is the latest addition to a grander scheme. If there were other criminal cases that were funded in similar ways, it could be worth investigating."
"If we obtain a solid lead." He was dismissive but said as an afterthought. "I have contacts who are more versed in international matters."
They continued to read and discuss, until there was a gentle knocking. Tokio peered in, light spilling from behind her. "It'll soon be sunset. Do you need candles?"
Koshijiro sharply inhaled, hastily restoring the papers in his hand to their original location. "We're late. Himura-san, Kaoru, we've overstayed our welcome."
The door opened further, revealing Kaoru's regretful face. "Sorry, I didn't want to disturb you, and I was caught up in talking to Tokio-san."
"It's alright. We still have time." Himura reassured. They put on their shoes, the sun was already dipping towards the horizon. "We're going home to meet with the others, but we are eating at the Akabeko tonight. Would you like to join us?"
Tokio shook her head. "We already have dinner plans, but thank you for the offer. Perhaps, some other time? And if you wish, you can visit us whenever you'd like."
Saito was obviously displeased. "Tokio…"
"Speaking of which, isn't there something you have to say, dear?" She leveled a firm look at him.
An excruciating pause stretched on. At last, he sighed, narrowing his eyes at all of them. "Your effort was adequate. I appreciate it. Are you happy now?" He directed a forced smile to his wife.
"Not yet, but I have plenty of suggestions on how you can make it up to me, our son, and Eiji-kun." There was a core of steel in her voice, and it was apparent that even Saito couldn't withstand it. "Now then, we shouldn't delay you three any further. I hope you have a good evening."
"Take care, Tokio-san and Eiji-kun. Saito-san, I'll see you at work." Koshijiro said.
"Bring Himura, if he isn't occupied with living softly."
"You don't have to worry." Himura evenly replied. "This one is willing to assist."
"It was really nice to meet you, Tokio-san." Kaoru was suppressing a laugh. "And of course, Tsutomu-chan and Eiji-kun. Feel free to come to the dojo!"
The boys eagerly waved, and Tokio bowed at the waist. Saito gave the barest nod of acknowledgement, but the distance he had maintained was shrinking.
At their own front door, Yahiko and Sagara were already waiting. They were busying themselves with a game of Go, and judging by his frustration, Sagara was on the cusp of losing. He immediately broke off the match, loudly announcing. "Hey, it took you long enough! The only one missing is the fox."
"And I'm right here!" Takani responded, as she stormed through the gate. Her red lips were pressed into a line. "I had to drop off my clinic bag at my place. And because I don't forget my manners…happy birthday, Ken-san and Kaoru." She pointedly said.
"Thank you, Megumi-dono."
"Thanks, Megumi."
Sagara grabbed Himura by the shoulder, digging his knuckles into red hair. "Congrats, Kenshin, you're a whole year older! You too, Jou-chan."
"Happy birthday." Yahiko grinned. "Next year, we'll have a better plan. Wait…are we gonna do a joint birthday every year?"
Himura tilted his head. "Oro?"
"Yahiko, why don't we get through today first?" Nevertheless, Kaoru was faintly blushing. "Let's go!"
The sky was a shade of wisteria as they approached the restaurant. Sagara and Yahiko were leading ahead, with Himura and Kaoru a few paces back. Koshijiro was about to catch up to them, when Takani murmured.
"I've received a letter from Aizu." She had been trailing the group, and though she claimed to be tired, fatigue wasn't the sole reason.
"The department didn't contact me, but what did it say?"
"Nothing regarding my family." She clarified. "It was written by a former colleague of my father's. He runs a hospital but he'd like to open a clinic run by Aizu doctors. I'm always welcome there. But…I don't think I can leave yet. We just came back and if I'm being conservative, everyone else is still recovering from their injuries. I sent my reply, that I need time to think it over."
It seemed like she was conflicted, but Koshijiro only said. "That's understandable. It is a serious decision."
"Yes, it is." She lapsed into silence again and picked up her pace to join the rest of the group.
The interior of the Akabeko was brightly lit, and when they entered, a cheer went up. "Happy birthday!" Every face was recognizable. Dr. Gensai, with his family. Maekawa and Sachi, his students and those from other dojos. Sano's friend, Tsunan, and acquaintances from town they had spoken to and helped. Chief Uramura had brought his wife and daughter, and the rookies were in attendance.
Tae beamed, showing them to their table. "It's a special occasion, so Sagara-kun and Yahiko-kun invited everybody they could think of."
"Almost everyone." Sagara amended. "The carpenter was unfortunately busy."
The curtain to the kitchen lifted, and Tsubame set down a sheet of paper. "I found it, Tae-san! This is the menu for the birthday dinner."
"Good job, Tsubame, I was worried I misplaced it. It's a selection of your favorite dishes, Kaoru. Kenshin-san, I believe your tastes align with hers, but request whatever you'd like. And save room for dessert, I tried making kasutera for the first time. It's not too bad!" She confided.
Kaoru had been stunned from the moment they walked in, but now, she laughed, wiping her eyes. "Geez, everyone, this is amazing! Really, it's the best birthday I've had in a while. Kenshin?"
He didn't respond right away, his throat working. "…Yes, this one feels the same. It is more than this one could have wished for."
Applause broke out, especially from the people who had started drinking early. Koshijiro had resorted to tapping his porcelain cup with his chopsticks, and it was why he could hear Tsubame whisper. "Yahiko-kun, what about you?"
"Shh, Tsubame!" He hushed her, but Koshijiro caught on.
"Were you born in August, Yahiko?"
"Well…yeah. We can celebrate mine later, today is for those two." He shrugged.
"But I won't forget. We'll make sure to do something for you, before the month ends."
"I'll write it down too, on the paper you bought for me." Tsubame smiled, intending to make use of his gift from Kyoto. Himura had been right, after all.
The atmosphere was raucous, and the food was excellent. And Kaoru was happy, warmly speaking with each guest. Everyone was having a good time, Koshijiro thought. That was when he noticed. In the corner of his eye, Himura was sitting still. He had pulled out the handkerchief and was staring at it once more, in deep contemplation.