Page 228 of Mercy Written in Blood
"She will."
"You don't know her."
"No."
"Then how do you know?"
Renji looked at Yumi.
"Because you made it while waiting for her."
The child's eyes filled again. This time, the tears fell. She wiped them angrily with one sleeve. Renji reached towards the tissue box on the table. He placed it beside her without comment. Yumi pulled out three tissues.
"I'm not supposed to cry."
"Why?"
"My aunt says I have to be brave."
"Crying does not prevent that."
"It makes people worried."
"They are already worried."
Yumi crushed the tissues in her fist.
"Would you like to know a secret?" Renji asked.
She nodded.
"Most adults do not know what bravery is."
Haruki felt the words settle somewhere deep. Yumi sniffed.
"What is it?"
"Being afraid and deciding what matters anyway."
"Is my mummy brave?"
"I expect so."
"Am I?"
"You are still here."
The child looked down. Renji placed his own crane beside hers on the chair. His was exact — sharp wings, balanced body, a clean, elegant shape.
Yumi compared them.
"Yours is better."
"It is older."
"It's paper."
"I meant mine."
