Chapter 6
It was summer. The cicada's were chirping and the sun laid it's heat onto the earth. It was the time to change into a yukata and cook more lighter foods. Something in the air bought on a feeling of excitement and adventure. Something amazing was just around the bend. Ren still stayed at the Inn, his father was very persistent and saw much money to be made with our small hotel. "Sayuri! Service in room ten!" My mother called from the kitchen. "Yes mother!" I replied and dashed down the hall. "You were in need of some service?" I said, opening in screen door.
A young man, around his early twenties, turned around to face me. His jet black hair shone brightly in the glare of the sun. His eyes were a chocolate brown and skin slightly tanned. His mouth spread into a grin. "Nice to meet you, I'm Akemi Johmei." He greeted me, bowing slightly. This was uncommon at the Inn, visitors usually told me there needs and I left. "Oh! Hello. Sayuri Sakimoto, daughter of the inn-keeper." I replied, also bowing. "I'd like some tea and a few robes." He asked. "Right away." I said.
I delivered the robes and tea. I had meant to visit Ren right after this was about to leave the room when he stopped me. "Care to join me?" Akemi asked. I sighed and plastered on a smile. "Of course!" I said and sat down beside him. "So where do you come from, Johmei-san?" I questioned. "Farther north than here. I own a fairly large company. My father passed away and gave it to me." He told me. I nodded. "How old are you?" He asked me. "Eighteen." I said. "Hmm. Getting ready for courtship?" He smiled.
I'd never thought of marriage. It seemed like a far off dream, not even close. But now that I thought about it...I remembered mother and fathers frequent remarks at the table. "I'll be gone soon. I need a good man to watch over the Inn." My father had said a couple nights ago. "You looks so lovely Sayuri. All the boys will be looking at you. Maybe one will strike your eye." My mother had said, preparing my yukata that morning.
"I guess." I mumbled. I looked around. "I think I should be going now." I said softly. Akemi nodded and I left to Ren. He was a sight for sore eyes. "You have no idea how nice it is to see you again." I sighed in his arms. He laughed. "You missed me that much? We only just talked last night." He said, brushing my hair from my eyes. We stayed silent for a moment. Akemi's conversation had been playing in my mind for awhile now. I looked up to Ren. "Ren...have you ever thought of getting married?" I asked him. "Marriage? Not much. But I do want a family some day. Why?" He replied. "No reason." I said.
I turned to look at him. "Ren...if you had to would you marry me?" I questioned him again. He paused. "I only want to make you happy." He answered quietly. He held me tighter. "It would." I whispered into his ear.
