Joshua didn't answer Nine. He looked at Arthur, nodded, and said, "Yes, what a coincidence."
He was about to say something more when Arthur spoke first.
"He chose it before I did—please wrap it up for him."
The shop assistant accompanying Arthur seemed momentarily stunned but quickly nodded. Joshua blinked in surprise at Arthur, then gave a slight nod. "Thank you." After a pause, he couldn't help but add, "If you like it too, we can share it. It's not like I can finish the whole thing alone, right?"
The moment the words left his mouth, Joshua felt a bit foolish. Arthur was wealthy and could easily have the owner make another one.
But then Arthur's gentle voice came again.
"Alright."
Joshua looked up, only to see Arthur holding a plate toward him.
"But I only need one piece," Arthur said softly. "Would you cut it for me?"
Joshua nodded. "Of course."
He carefully cut a slice of cake for Arthur, even adding a piece of the decorative snowpeach.
