"Kiyoshi-san..."
Tears welled in Midori's eyes, blurring her vision. Blinded, she launched herself into Kiyoshi's arms, a sob escaping her lips.
Kiyoshi wrapped his arms tightly around Midori's slender frame, his lips pressing against the crown of Midori's head.
"I apologize for making you wait," he said with a deep, hoarse voice. "I read all your letters, one every night. You gave me the strength to carry on."
"Wahhhh... I was so worried..."
Midori started to wail.
"What if you don't return? What if you miss the important milestones in Ame's life..."
"I am sorry," Kiyoshi peppered Midori's crying face with little kisses. "I am sorry, my love. Please forgive me."
Midori, her vision blurred with tears, barely registered Madam Matsumoto and Master Matsumoto as they walked away, hand in hand. Master Matsumoto's gait faltered with a slight limp, and his wife instinctively offered him her support.
