Page 126 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Take off your coat," Renji said.

Haruki did not move.

"Are you sure?"

"No."

The smile returned slowly.

"That is almost honest."

"You are letting rain onto the floor."

"Of course."

Haruki removed his coat. Beneath it, he wore a black shirt open at the throat and dark trousers — nothing tailored enough to declare status, nothing that required the armour of his public role. He draped the coat over the chair Renji indicated.

"No bodyguards," Renji said.

"I told you."

"Why?"

"They objected to the evening."

"They were correct."

"They usually are. It's exhausting."

"You should not travel alone."

Haruki looked at him.

"Concern?"

"Professional observation."

"I am no longer your patient."

"Then ordinary common sense."

"Less romantic."

"There is nothing romantic about basic security."

Haruki's smile sharpened.

"You said romantic."

Renji walked into the kitchen.

"I will get bowls."

"You noticed it too."

"I noticed your food is becoming cold."

"Deflection."