The aromas from the appetizers almost made up for Mei's snide comments. Even as a neonatologist, Kagome had never seen the point in spending an entire paycheque on one meal. She indulged in fancy dinners now and then, but the prices on this particular menu weren't something she could afford on the regular.
She'd rather spend the money on travelling.
However, she wasn't above putting Mei's money where her mouth was. The panther had ordered three plates for herself, half-heartedly encouraging the rest of them to do the same, but Kagome knew it was more about flaunting the money than generosity.
"Isn't this divine?" Mei gushed after the first round arrived. "I'm sure Shou-san heard I was here and made mine himself." Kagome and Tsubasa shared a look, nobody commenting as they sampled their food.
The scents didn't do the food justice, and even though she'd much rather add another country to her map of travelled places, Kagome couldn't help but think of returning—with much better company. Each item sounded decadent, and while Mei knew instantly what to get, emphasizing how often she'd eaten his food, Kagome had had a hard time narrowing it down.
Food had never been a highlight of her life. Things had been tight after her father's death, and there were always other expenses that came up first. Mama had done her best to provide healthy lunches during school, but sometimes, it was just easier to pick up instant ramen.
Maybe she'd book a food tour on her next trip.
She'd been on the verge of flagging down the server to order another when someone in pristine chef whites approached the table. From the way Mei's face lit up, Kagome assumed it was the illustrious Chef Yasei, and she focused on her plate. If everything Mei'd said about her connection with the chef was true, Kagome didn't want anything to do with him, regardless of how good his food was.
"Shou-san, I was just talking about you! Thank you so much for always making such amazing food," the panther gushed. "I know you're not supposed to show favouritism, but I couldn't help but notice the extra care you put into my food tonight. Did someone tell you I was here?"
Kagome gagged.
Grabbing her drink to keep the appetizer in her stomach, she frowned when Tsubasa nudged her foot under the table. The butterfly youkai tilted her head in Mei's direction, and Kagome finally looked up, her fork clattering to the table.
He looked different than before—taller if that was even possible—but the markings were unmistakable. Amber eyes bore into hers, the rest of Mei's rambling going unnoticed. Even after spending three years collecting shards, Kagome had managed to keep her grades up enough to land herself a scholarship, but it had taken her to another city.
She'd wanted so badly to stay near the shrine in case her friends survived and came looking for her, but Mama had promised to send them in her direction if they ever showed up.
No one ever did.