Page 248 of Mercy Written in Blood
"Is something wrong?"
"No."
"Then why do you sound like that?"
"Like what?"
"Like you're about to commit a crime personally."
Haruki started the engine.
"I need to buy a book."
Silence. Then, cautiously, "Is that code?"
"No."
"You want me to move a meeting because you're going shopping?"
"Yes."
"For a book."
"Yes."
Another pause.
"Is it for Doctor Takahara?"
Haruki looked through the windscreen. He could deny it. Ken would not believe him.
"Yes."
"Birthday?"
Haruki's grip tightened on the phone.
"How do you know?"
"Reina knows everyone's birthday."
"Of course she does."
"She said not to mention it because he hates people knowing."
Haruki closed his eyes briefly.
"Do not tell her."
"That you're buying him something?"
"That I called."
Ken laughed.
"I enjoy being alive, so absolutely not."
"Ken."
