Page 115 of Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
“One thing, really.” A searching look. A soft question. “Do you love my daughter?”
“Wholeheartedly.” He slipped unthinkingly into a much more dominating stance than the occasion dictated. “She is my choice, as well.”
“That’s good, then. Yes, good.” There was a tremulous edge to her father’s smile. He caressed Ever’s silky hair and touched his round cheek. “May I show this beautiful boy to Kikuko?”
“Soon,” promised Hisoka. “The hour has come for Kimiko’s declaration. Will you join Harmonious on the dais, please?”
Ever was sent trotting to his mother, and they wended their way to the low platform, reaching it at the same time as Suuzu, who guided Kimiko into position. Once again, Hisoka called for everyone’s attention.
“Since the oldest of days, Amaranthine have gathered at the Song Circle to mark celebrations—rites of coming and going, the taking of apprentices, the binding of pacts, and the founding of houses. This night, the Starmark pack forms a circle to hear the pledge of Kimiko Miyabe, who claims suit and will pursue Eloquence Starmark.”
Quen watched as his packmates quietly fanned out. Uncle Laud’s white shock moved from door to door, sliding them open so their Kith could enter. He was theirs. Of course they wanted to be here—to see, to hear, to know the form Kimiko’s promise would take.
Hisoka continued, adding dignity to the coming moment by his very presence. “Miss Miyabe, Harmonious Starmark wishes you to know that he will not yield his son to a half-hearted suitor. What do you have to say for yourself?”
Eloquence was grateful to have been spared the “maiden son” label.
On cue, she took her place in the center of the room, head high, posture radiating confidence. She took the time for a slow spin, meeting the gazes of those she’d only just met, taking in the strength of the Starmark pack. Last of all, she looked his way. The tilt of her chin, the lift of her brows—it was as if they were sharing a laugh or a secret. His blood began to sing, and the sweet note of her soul rang in his memory.
Then she addressed herself to the room in carrying tones. “My heart is as whole as it is his. Let courtship show my resolve, for I’ve resolved to have him.”
A murmur ran around the circle, acknowledgement and approval, a few yips from the Kith contingent, and some elbowing among the adolescent males.
Harmonious grinned. “And what form will your courtship take?”
“A variation on the Cycle of Moons, which is found in the Amaranthine lore of trees. Twelve pledges sealed by twelve kisses.” She waited out another murmur before adding, “I’m prepared to bestow the first kiss tonight, beneath Kusunoki, the tree at Kikusawa Shrine.”
“Your purpose and your preparations are good.” Harmonious cocked a brow in Quen’s direction. “Well, son? What doyouhave to say for yourself?”
“I will be waiting in the appointed place.”
Hisoka took charge again. “The Starmark clan has acknowledged Kimiko’s suit. All that remains is the selection of representatives. Kimiko, Eloquence, name the member of your household who will bear witness to the twelve pledges, each in their turn.
Kimiko spoke without hesitation. “My father, Reaver Akio Miyabe.”
The man took a small step forward, beaming proudly at his daughter.
Hisoka turned to Eloquence, eyebrows lifting.
Quen couldfeelhis father drawing himself up, eager to be named, even as he felt Laud’s presence withdraw, shrinking from a role that would bring so much attention his way.
“Eloquence,” Hisoka prompted. “Who will you choose from among your packmates to watch over you and your lady?”
“This clan is strong, and there are many—Kith and Kindred alike—who could carry the honor. After much consideration, my choice became clear. I designate Ever Starmark as my representative.”
Everyone’s gaze swung to Anna Starmark, whose small son perched on her hip. The pup’s ears pricked and swiveled. “Me? Is it my turn, Mum?”
“Yes, my child,” said Anna. “Go to your brother. He needs you.”
Ever crossed the room at full scamper, accomplishing the last meters in a gravity-defying leap. “Here I am, Bruvver!”
Quen swung him high, then cradled him close. “Will you be my representative?”
“Yeth.” His face creased in confusion. “What dat?”
He crossed to Kimiko, guessing it would be easiest to explain his role if he understood Kimiko’s place in their future. Quen said, “The pack needs you to do a very important job, Ever. As my representative, you’ll listen to Kimiko say her words, then hear my answers.”
Wide eyes blinked. “Why?”
