IT BLOSSOMS, hatori sohma [Fruits Basket]

Chapter Nineteen

The day started out innocuously, the afternoon sky radiating a gentle, sober brightness. Himawari held tightly to her mother's hand, humming the theme song of her latest anime obsession, Mogeta.

The show in question was considered harmless and primarily targeted towards a younger audience. Surprisingly, it had become a part of Ryu and even Kazuma's weekly routine. Although the adults found the show's appeal somewhat elusive, they refrained from voicing any criticism. They willingly engaged themselves in the show, learning various facts to converse with Himawari about it, believing it was better to have someone to discuss it with, even if it wasn't their own interest, rather than no one at all.

Ryu and Himawari were on their way to the Sohma main estate. Initially, Ryu had been reluctant, suggesting that Hatori come to the dojo instead. She believed it was better to keep Himawari away from that place. However, the past few days had seen an influx of visitors at the dojo, causing it to become quite crowded.

As they neared the Sohma estate, Ryu was reminded that it was the annual meeting for the dojo proprietors, Kazuma included. This year, the gathering was taking place at the Sohma dojo, and Ryu knew that amidst the clamor, it would be nearly impossible to have a proper conversation with Hatori.

Ryu considered the option of avoiding the meeting by waiting until it had concluded. However, once the new school year began, the schedule would become even more hectic. Hatori expressed a desire to meet with Himawari, and arranging a meeting during the school year would prove challenging, as their schedules were already packed. This particular day presented a rare opportunity with everyone free and available.

As they approached, the towering wall encircling the Sohma estate came into view, and Himawari's awe was palpable. Her hand gently glided along the wall as they continued down the road toward the main gate.

"The estate is truly massive, Mama!" exclaimed Himawari, continuing to run her hand along the wall.

Ryu nodded in agreement, adding, "Yes, once you enter, it's like stepping into an entirely different world."

"How is it different inside?" Himawari queried, her curiosity piqued at the mention of something "different."

Ryu pondered for a moment before offering her explanation, "Many of the homes here are built in the traditional style, which creates a sense of being transported to a different era. Perhaps it resembles the Edo period?"

Himawari brought a finger to her lips, playfully pondering, "The Edo period?"

Ryu smiled, enjoying the lighthearted moment, and the discussion turned into playful banter, fueled by their imaginative thoughts. While Ryu knew these were just imaginative speculations, she played along to keep the cheerful mood going.

Deep down, Ryu wished that things could stay lighthearted and innocent like this, but the moment you pass through those gates, it's like entering a ghost town. The Sohma family held onto traditions, wealth, and status with a firm grip, often putting it above moral values and ethics. That was a significant reason why she wanted to keep Himawari away from this environment.