Page 245 of Mercy Written in Blood

"I understood the implication."

"You don't look a day over seven hundred."

Renji opened his eyes.

"I could have you removed from the hospital."

"You won't."

"I know people in security."

"So do I."

"My people are employed here."

"Mine frighten yours."

"That is not reassuring."

Haruki continued smiling. Renji's expression resisted. Then softened. Only for a moment. The birthday had stopped feeling entirely like grief. Haruki saw it happen. A small shift. Enough.

He returned to his lunch. Renji did the same. They finished without further discussion.

When Haruki began packing the empty containers, Renji spoke.

"I am working tomorrow."

"I assumed."

"I have surgery in the morning."

"What time?"

"Seven."

"When do you finish?"

"I do not know."

Haruki tied the bag closed.

"That wasn't an invitation."

"I did not interpret it as one."

"You asked when I finish."

"Because schedules exist."

"For what purpose?"

Haruki stood. Renji watched him.

"Dinner," Haruki said.

"No."

"That was quick."