Page 230 of Mercy Written in Blood

"That's good?"

"It is not bad."

She nodded. At that hour, it was enough.

"Thank you for staying with her."

Renji stood.

"It was unnecessary."

Yumi frowned.

"No, it wasn't."

Renji looked down at her. The child held his gaze with complete seriousness.

"You stayed because I asked."

"Yes."

"So it was necessary."

Renji appeared to have no answer. Yumi picked up his paper crane.

"Can I keep this one too?"

Renji hesitated. Then nodded. She placed both birds carefully in the pocket of her yellow coat. Her aunt took her hand. As they walked away, Yumi looked back.

"Bye, Doctor Takahara."

"Goodbye, Yumi."

"Don't get in trouble."

"I will try."

She clearly did not believe him. Then she disappeared around the corner.

Renji watched until she was gone. The night nurse called his name from the desk.

"Doctor Takahara, they need you in review."

"I know."

"You said two minutes."

"I was delayed."

"So I see."

The nurse glanced at the empty chair, then at Renji. Her expression softened.

"You're terrible with children."

"Yes."

"Hopeless."