Part of Ishawari lurched as Hotaru exited, as if it were going against everything ingrained by duty. It was the right thing to do after all, not only to avoid suspicion, but to also gain the boy’s trust. Still, Ishawari wanted to list off the usual do’s and don’ts like that of a doting parent, but decided not to. He nodded to Jin, choosing to focus on other things. She looked refreshed, beaming in a blue kimono that complemented her dark skin and curls. He laughed at her mention of Kana. 

“The old bird still loves her worms,” He smiled. “Tell her I said hello.” 

Ishawari rose from the table, stretching his legs, consciously peering out to see Hotaru skipping down the path to school. 

“I’ll be heading over to the Ochi farm to check on Saito. Even though Masuka was strongly against it, her husband, Toji, insisted the drunk stay with them overnight. A bit odd if you ask me. Those two are always at each other’s throats over something.”