"I am deeply sorry!"
Midori bowed deeply with her forehead pressing against the tatami mat and both hands spread before her head.
"No... Midori-san, there is really no need to act this way."
"There is! I have been very discourteous to Sensei!"
Grandpa Kinoshita had to press a hand against his lips in order to not burst into laughter.
"Why are you acting like a samurai in front of his landlord?"
Midori raised her reddened face and mumbled, "No, I didn't mean to act that way."
"Then don't. Unless you were angry at me?"
"No, I was not!"
"Then why have you not been coming for tea lessons? I already promised to guide you into mastering the art of Japanese tea preparation. Are you worried that I might go back on my words?"
"No, of course not! It's just that..."
Midori bit down on her lip, her eyes downcast. Grandpa Kinoshita's gaze sharpened, a question dancing in his eyes.
"What is on your mind, Midori-san?"
