Page 78 of Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
Suuzu said, “Tuned crystals would be ideal, provided they are properly handled.”
Dickon inclined his head. “Spokesperson Twineshaft arranged for their installation.”
Akira blinked. What were the chances?
“Far be it from me to question Hisoka Twineshaft’s handling.”
Suuzu’s tone was stiff, yet polite. Akira grabbed his hand and rolled his eyes deliberately toward the girls. “Only the best for these two. Best of the best!”
Not as smooth or subtle as Kimi’s posturing, but good enough to get by.
Recognition flickered, and Suuzu murmured, “Yes, of course. I am content.”
“Take care on your return journey.” Dickon’s gaze swept the quiet lane. “It happened again.”
“Another attack?” Kimi asked sharply. “Someone’s been taken?”
Dread plunged in Akira’s gut. “They didn’t say anything at school.”
Dickon’s jaw tightened, and his shook his head once. “She is not a student at New Saga. The girl attends Ingress Academy.”
THIRTY-THREE
That Radish-Man
“That Radish-man!” Mrs. Miyabe’s knife beat a staccato across her cutting board, reducing a cabbage to vicious shreds. Dinner preparation was turning into a dangerous affair, and Kimiko wondered if she should try to separate Mama from her weapon.
She traded a look with Isla, whose eyes had taken on a definite sparkle. Kimiko was relieved that the girl didn’t belittle or bemoan the circumstances in their household. On the contrary, Isla seemed to enjoy navigating Mrs. Miyabe’s shifting moods.
“Which man?” Isla adopted an expression of innocent puzzlement. “Do you mean Reaver Denholme?”
Apparently, Dickon’s name sounded enough likedaikonto give rise to the insult. Mama clearly thought it a clever twist, but Kimiko thought her childish.
The woman took up a carrot and shook it. “Am I to be a prisoner in my own home?”
“Mama,” Kimiko sighed. “He’s here to keep us safe.”
“From the Ladies Neighborhood Improvement Committee?” Her voice squeaked with her outrage. “They metwithoutme because that Radish-man wouldn’t let me through. Of all the audacity! I’m the chairwoman!”
It was difficult to say if that jibe was intended for their beleaguered security guard or the women who’d had the temerity to carry on without her.
“Spokesperson Twineshaft explained, and we all agreed it was for the best,” soothed Kimiko. “It’s too soon to let anyone know about my betrothal.”
“Security. Secrets,” Mama grumbled. “Can’t a mother be excited over her daughter’s good fortune?”
“You can.” Kimiko was a little surprised. “I’m glad to know you’re happy about the match.”
But the woman rattled right on. “And that Nakamura woman, flaunting her sons-in-law and her oh-so-gifted grandchildren. This will put her back in a proper place.”
“But Mama, you can’t tell.”
“I couldhint!” Her smile was smug. “And even if shewereto catch on, what’s a secret or two between old friends?”
Kimiko chose not to point out thatthiswas the reason Mama was confined to quarters. Temporarily. And with Daddy’s quiet support. Part of Hisoka Twineshaft’s effort to stem the tide of gossip until the Starmarks were ready to go public about the bonding.
Preferably after graduation.
Noriko came in then, a patient smile on her face. “Don’t you girls have homework?”
