Mystified

Akiba Shigeru watched Hiroko sit at her favourite stool, staring into space as he finished tidying up his work. They were in Shigeru's workshop where he crafted his glassware to be sold to the finest art houses. "How did the ceremony go the other day?" prompted Shigeru.

"Fine," Hiroko was still in a world of her own.

Finally, she turned and faced Shigeru. "Have you ever, um... ever received a letter from someone when you don't expect one from him?"

"Whatever do you mean?"

"I went to Aki's house after the ceremony and I got this address where they stayed before coming to Kobe. Mrs. Fujii said that their old home was demolished to make way for a new highway. That night, I wrote a letter to Aki at his old address."

"You what??!" Shigeru was instantly alert, "Whatever for?"

"I got a reply." Hiroko produced the letter.

"Let me see that!" Shigeru opened the envelope and read the letter.

Dear Hiroko,

I'm fine, thank you. Just having a little cold.

Sincerely, Aki

 

Shigeru paused as he finished. "Aki replied to you from heaven?" He started to laugh.

Hiroko shrugged, "I...I don't know. Maybe..."

"What's wrong with you? Are you still thinking about Aki? That was so long ago already."

Hiroko tried to avoid his eyes. "What's the matter? What about our relationship?" Shigeru wanted to know. He wrapped his arms around Hiroko, and kissed her hard. The room seemed warmer in the cold winter night.

 

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