"Now have a seat and drink with us," Kitayama said, patting the spot beside him.
Before Haruki could reply, Ichiro chuckled and nudged his cousin.
"Hey, he hasn't even eaten yet—and you're already trying to make him drink?"
"Oh, right!" Kitayama laughed. "Keiko!!"
"Y-Yes, Father?" Keiko called from across the yard, wiping her hands as she approached.
As she got closer, Keiko slowed down, blinking in surprise.
Oh my…
He was tall. Sharp-featured. Calm presence.
Too handsome…
"Ah—hello," Haruki said politely, offering a slight bow.
"H-Hello," Keiko replied, doing her best to act normal.
Kitayama glanced at her. "Where's your sister?"
"Hmm?"
"Call her here," he said casually. "She's been gone long enough."
Keiko nodded. "Alright… I'll get her."
Keiko weaved through the crowd, scanning the tables until she spotted her sister.
Kyouko was seated a little farther out, chatting quietly with her old school friends at a low table, half-hidden behind a tree lantern.
