Nazo was running a few minutes late getting out the door. He was to meet Kenji for lunch, and it was very rude to be late for such a social engagement. Nazo grabbed his jacket and his phone and tablet on the way out the door.
He rushed to meet Kenji at a small, sort of hidden place. It looked almost like a small cafe had been melded with a small thrift shop that also sold seafood. The chef had been friends with Kenji for years, and always had the freshest sushi, and his rice was decent enough.
It had been several months since Biyu had passed now. Nazo was still very much out of sorts, and most days he had trouble starting. Kenji had been the one friend who found ways to pull him out of his bedroom and into the streets. Kenji was also an avid smoker, and knew he could procure some of the best tobacco at a fair price from his friend, despite the fact that Nazo had retired and sold the shop to his long-time customer Shoshuda-san.
As they ate, little was spoken. Less because they were quiet, and more because it was just the way they were. They each focused on their own meal, letting the other focus on his meal. They were certainly grateful for the food and companionship, but the consumption of the food took priority over any mundane small talk they might otherwise suffer.
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“So, Nazo... how are you? How is the house? Are you eating well?”
“Hmm...” said Nazo, pondering the inquiry.
Nazo sipped his tea, and refilled his glass from the teapot.
“Some days are ok. Some days, I go to the shop, others I can’t. I think of her when I am there. But I still like being there, even if Shoshuda-san would prefer I stay home.”
Kenji stared blankly as he listened.
“You know, we met at the shop? She seemed so young and naive at the time. And I was too.”
“Things are ok with Shoshuda-san running the shop now?”
“I try to stay out of his way. But I know the customers. Better than he.”
“But it reminds of you Biyu?”
“Hai…. Hai.”
Nazo stared at his tablet... contemplating the history of he and Biyu that had been captured in digital photos and videos. His own memory was often blurry, on account of the time that had passed, as well as the many experiences they had shared when he had drunk too much beer or sweet wine.