"It's my mother's birthday." Hotaru smiled. "She may act unhappy about being out here, but I know that deep down she has been waiting for this trip forever. She has always wanted to go on an ocean cruise."
"Wow. That sounds like fun." Dirk said calmly, taking another drag of the joint. The smoke had a way of calming him down he felt more relaxed around here. "I hope she does have a good time."
"Thank you. But you didn't answer my first question." She smiles sweetly and cocks her head to the side. "Why are you so sad, Dirk?"
"Errrmmm..." Dirk's mind whirred quickly, trying to force it's way through the sudden haze it found itself in. "Hotaru-chan..."
"Please. You may dispense with the honorifics." Hotaru shook her head slightly. "I greatly appreciate you showing respect, but I have been Americanized enough from living in this country for many years. Hotaru will do fine."
"Ah, see, your garb threw me off there." Dirk said quickly. "It is not often one sees that kind of traditional wardrobe in an everyday situation."
"Yes, I see how you could be confused." Hotaru giggled slightly. "My mother is a very big stickler for tradition. It is her birthday, so I am wearing it for her."
"Well, it looks very nice on you." Dirk said. Hotaru blushed slightly and Dirk's heart skipped a beat. She looked so cute, he could feel his own face heat up.
"You are quite the flatterer, Dirk." Hotaru said, trying to obscure her blushing face. "But I see that you're also quite good at changing the topic." Dirk gulped. He had hoped he could change her train of thought.
"Well...let me just say I am not too keen on reliving why I don't feel very giddy inside." Dirk replied, looking out over the water.
"I see." Hotaru said, looking away. "I...I apologize for butting my way into s-something that's not my business." She stuttered a bit out of nervousness as she stared at her shoes. "If you'd like to be alone, I will take my leave." She turns and starts to head away. |