Chapter 15:

Interlude

Infallibility


“Akane, you get those vegetables?” Dad slowly trotted along on his rickety cane. It was just us in the house these days, mom having gone to the other side some years ago.

“Of course! Putting them away now.”

“Shouldn't have even asked. I can always count on you.”

“Thanks, dad!” I smiled brightly in his direction before turning towards the kitchen.

Not a speck of dust was in sight as I entered the spotless room. It was a constant battle, washing the dishes and wiping the counters faster than the kitchen could produce a mess. With father's current state, it's not like there was anyone else to take charge. The pots and pans would pile up to the sky the second I let my guard down.

I hummed the day away as I neatly set the food in the fridge. Such a thing was a luxury, something I knew firsthand. Truth be told the second ours broke we’d be in trouble. The money simply wasn't there to replace it.

Birds chirped through the open window. These days such a sight was more uncommon than ever. Rei used to go on and on about the birds back when we were kids. How right he ended up.

“Any ideas for dinner dad?” I asked, twirling a nearby knife in my hand.

“Up to you. Everything you make is delicious.”

“Curry it is then.” I tossed the vegetables on the counter and filled the pot with broth. Curry was one of the simplest dishes I knew, but more importantly, provided a great opportunity to practice.

My knife flew across the table, slicing the vegetables faster than the eye could see. One second they were whole, and the next chopped up into cute little chunks.

With a simmer, they joined the broth as I poured in various spices. All that remained was the simple turning of the spoon as the heat flowed through the ingredients.

I looked back out the window. Moments like this made my day. The peace throughout, when everything felt ok in the world.

Times were changing. In just a few Japan would be flipped on its head. Moments like these, that's what I fought for. No, what we all fought for. A Japan where we could be free.