Page 246 of Mercy Written in Blood

"I do not celebrate."

"I heard you."

"Then why ask?"

"I asked whether you were free."

"For dinner on my birthday."

"Yes."

"That is celebrating."

"It is eating."

"With you."

"We've done that before."

"Not on my birthday."

Haruki lifted one shoulder.

"That sounds coincidental."

Renji studied him. Haruki picked up the rubbish.

"No cake."

"I didn't mention cake."

"No gathering."

"I didn't mention a gathering."

"No gifts."

"You're becoming demanding for someone declining an invitation."

Renji's eyes narrowed. Haruki moved towards the door.

"Seven is too early for dinner," he said.

"The surgery should finish by noon."

"Then I'll message you later."

"I did not agree."

"You didn't refuse clearly."

"I said no."

"To celebrating."

"Dinner would be celebrating."

"Only if we call it that."