sharp. Mitsue was up before dawn. She had been awake the entire night. She ran a bath and put on her best skirt and blouse. She had ironed them both the night before. She put on a little makeup. Mitsue had never heard the house so quiet. She tiptoed down the stairs, made a cup of tea, and sat at the table by herself. She was preparing herself, trying to brace herself, gather her strength. She knew she’d need it. Hanpei and Wari came down the stairs together. Mitsue made more tea and some somen noodles for them. “Arigato,” they said. It was a day like no other. Their trunks were packed, nailed, and stacked by the front door. Mitsue made a little nigiri for Hideo and June and then cleaned the dishes. When they were both done eating, Mitsue put the bowls and chopsticks into the basket that would be left for the rooming house owner. What use were they to them anymore? They left the kitchen together. Hideo turned out the light and they waited in the front lobby in the half-light of dawn.
