An Apology

Mori
Itsukishima
Hiroshima Prefecture
November 13

To Ojiisan, Obaasan, and Chihiro-basan:

First, an apology. I have absolutely no excuse to cease writing for nearly half a year. No excuse. Has it really been that long? I am extremely sorry. I am grateful, though, that Ojiisan hasn't stormed Faux-kyo to look for me. Did you have anything to do with that, Chihiro-basan?

I know you'd like it better if I wrote more, aside from making the occasional phone call. I will attempt to remedy that by giving you a summary of the things that I have not spoken of during our phone conversations.

First, Mr. Midnight returned from his unexpected trip to Vietnam. He brought home a dog, perhaps as an apology for his abrupt departure. A few months after, he took another trip, this time to Singapore -- but this time, he did manage to say goodbye. In his own way. I'll try not to go into the details; you might find it boring. He has not shown his face since then, so I've been left to deal with a few odds and ends at work and have devoted more of my time to my studies. You will be proud. Only, I wish my employer was back -- and only because I have other things to attend instead of minding his business! You understand, don't you?

Second, I was surprised to find Shin-chan here! Of course, he hates that I call him -chan, but I guess I haven't broken the habit. He will always be such a little boy to me! He says he joined a rock band, and I'm quite excited to hear him play. I suspect I might not like those bars he's always in, but I am determined to support him in this endeavor! Have his parents mentioned anything like this to you?

Finally, who else would come to Faux-kyo but Kumiko! Yes, the same Kumiko who has lived right next door to us nearly all my life! I must admit that thought she was a thief at first, so you can imagine my extreme relief to discover that I was wrong. Kumiko confessed that she had followed Shin to Faux-kyo. Who knew that she was so head over heels in love? I wouldn't have figured out on my own. Kumiko is usually glued to her computers; I never thought she would find anything -- or anyone -- half as interesting as them!

Anyway, that's all that's been happening around here! I hope things get a little livelier soon. I never thought I would say something like this but... it's too quiet. But please don't worry. I promise that I won't give you anything to worry about in the future.

Forgive me?
Your Midori