Page 191 of Mercy Written in Blood

The certainty of the statement carried more truth than the conversation required. Haruki thought of the apartment — the preserved books, the bowl repaired with gold, the centuries held in ordered rows because Renji feared what might vanish if he loosened his grip. He looked away.

"Reina thinks Ayako invited you to dinner deliberately," he said.

Renji did not challenge the change of subject.

"She did invite me deliberately."

"I mean she planned to inspect you."

"I am aware."

"You didn't seem concerned."

"Your mother is not subtle."

Haruki laughed.

"You may be the only person alive who believes that."

"She observed me through the entire meal."

"She observes everyone."

"She asked six questions about my family without appearing to ask any."

"That sounds like her."

"She placed me beside you."

Haruki looked at him. Renji lifted his cup again. Haruki watched the movement.

"You noticed."

"The seating arrangement was obvious."

"She could have put you beside Ken."

"Ken chews too loudly."

"He does."

"Hiroshi steals food."

"He claims it tastes better from other plates."

"Reina would have interrogated me openly."

"She likes efficiency."

"Your mother chose the position that allowed her to watch both of us."

Haruki leaned forward.

"And what conclusion do you think she reached?"

Renji's hand paused. Only slightly.

"I have no interest in guessing."