Yahiko:
(Lunch time)
I sigh going back to the Row Houses. I just remembered I have another -chore- to do. Damn. Why did Kaoru have to give me Yagi-san’s letter? Now I have to go back to his place -again-? Ever since he became my neighbor, it’s been one thing after the other. I stomp all the way to his door and knock. But there’s no answer. He’s probably not home or he’s drunk again. And if he’s drunk in the middle of the day… I can’t leave him alone so I go inside.
Oh. He really isn’t here. Maybe he went to work? It is a weekday. But then again, this is Saitou we’re talking about. Didn’t Kenshin used to say that Saitou ran all over Japan catching bad men? But there’s not been that same threat since Shishio so that corrupt cop is probably slacking off!
Damn! I was going to tell him that Yagi-san wanted me to keep an eye on him. I thought he might’ve liked to hear that because he asked me the other night what Yagi-san said about him. Or was that just the sake talking? But didn’t Kaoru say they’re done as a couple because Saitou cheated on Yagi-san? Why is Yagi-san still writing me to watch Saitou? And why is Saitou asking about what Yagi-san said? This is -stupid-.
I scan the room just to make sure everything is in place. The last thing I want is that Cop accusing me of taking something! But on the table I see a note. Now what is this?
Oh. It has my name on it.
Boy,
Don’t think I’m trying to shirk your fee. I hope what’s enclosed is enough. I was wondering if you’d return the scarf now that I’ve paid you? But if you’ve given it to your Tsubame already, then leave it with her. She probably appreciates it more since it came from you.
Thank you and I won’t trouble you again. I’ll be away for a while but I’m not sure when to be back. That’s a load off your mind and the Battousai. Do tell the Battousai, not to forget our agreement. He should know what I mean.
Hajime
What the hell?
I pocket the money. And he’s right, I can’t take it back from Tsubame anymore. She said it was nice and warm and she didn’t mind the crooked stitching. I gave her the present early because I wanted to throw her off from the surprise party today.
Well I guess that’s that. Should I let Yagi-san know that he’s gone off to -somewhere- for a while? I guess. After all she thinks I’m watching. Why she even asked me. Geez… I take the letter. I’ll take care of this -later-. I need to get back to the Akabeko. But once again as I close the door, I notice the broken lock. I really need to get that fixed but no hurry right? He did say he’ll be away a while.