Page 114 of Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
He gave subtle emphasis to the English surname, as if there was a connection he expected her to make. Her grasp of English was rudimentary at best, her worst subject. All she’d retained from middle school were a few basic phrases, numbers one to ten, the names of farm animals, some varieties of fruit, and colors.
Oh.
Kimiko quickly shifted into stammering, babbling, gesticulating comprehension. Green wasmidori. Midori wasgreen.
The woman simply nodded.
With a warm chuckle, Eloquence banished any lingering doubt. “Kimiko, it is my distinct pleasure to introduce Reaver Anna Starmark, battler class, better known to history as Saint Midori.”
FORTY-THREE
To See, To Hear, To Know
Like most of Dad’s gatherings, the evening proceeded casually, with music and mingling. Eloquence noted the opening of a second cask of celebratory star wine and caught wind of enough embarrassing childhood stories to heighten his color. Ever had flitted everywhere, glad to be included for once, but now nestled against Quen’s shoulder.
As per custom, Suuzu never left Kimiko’s side as he guided her through introductions with members of the Starmark pack. And Twineshaft remained at Quen’s side, patient in his watchfulness.
Eventually, the cat leaned closer. “I don’t think he’ll find the courage, and time is short. Shall we?”
“I’d be grateful.”
Taking Eloquence’s elbow, Hisoka steered him toward the far corner where Akio Miyabe had taken refuge. Quen submitted quietly, for these were the roles they needed to play, the rules of a traditional courting game. He couldn’t approach Kimiko’s family without an escort.
“Good evening to you, Reaver Miyabe,” Hisoka said easily. “I’ve coaxed Eloquence over. Will you welcome him?”
The man immediately offered his palms, which presented something of a … situation. Not only were Eloquence’s hands full with Ever, the little boy seized the chance to change partners. Mr. Miyabe found himself weighed down with a clingy cuddler.
“I should sniffen you.”
A slow smile warmed the shrinekeeper’s face, making Kimiko’s resemblance to her father more apparent. “Hello, young sir. Should we be introduced first?”
“I dun know you.” Ever frowned thoughtfully. “Does I?”
“Allow me, since introductions are one of my duties this evening.” Hisoka gently tweaked Ever’s ear. “Reaver Miyabe, the affectionate pup in your arms is Ever Starmark. Ever, the man you are preparing tosniffenis Kimiko’s father. That’s why he seems familiar.”
Quen was proud that Ever had picked up on the similarities of scent. He and Laud had begun teaching him the basics of tracking, which required a discerning nose.
Ever’s tail wagged so hard, he was wriggling. “Kimi’s yours?”
“One of my precious daughters.”
“She’s mine too! Ours.” At this, he reached back, and Quen eased forward so Ever’s hand could rest possessively over his heart. “Bruvver’s and mine!”
Mr. Miyabe asked, “May I meet your brother?”
“Yeth! Him’s Quen.”
Hisoka stepped in. “Eloquence is Harmonious Starmark’s fourth son and one of your daughter’s classmates at New Saga High School. He is her choice, and the Starmark clan welcomes her pursuit.”
The usual exchange of niceties was much interrupted by Ever’s enthusiastic nuzzling, which put a shine in Mr. Miyabe’s eyes.
“Ah,” said Hisoka, as if just remembering something. “This seems as good a time as any to point out that you may well have grandchildren with similar features.”
Akio Miyabe’s astonishment ebbed away, and Quen was relieved to see acceptance, even anticipation on the man’s face. Their pups would be welcome. He stole a glance toward Kimiko, who was talking animatedly with his sister Rampant. Even from here, he could feel her delight. Maybe because their connection was already forming?
Hisoka’s hand settled on his back, and Quen brought his wandering attention back. Mr. Miyabe had been watching him watch his daughter.
Quen awkwardly asked, “Is there anything Spokesperson Twineshaft has not covered?”
