The Yakuza's flower

Strong friends

Ume's POV

The days that followed were surprisingly... normal.

Honestly, I was grateful for that.

Every now and then, I'd run into Hanayama while walking to work or picking up groceries.

We never really talked.

Instead, our conversations consisted of... well...

I'd wave at him.

Or smile.

Sometimes he'd raise a hand in greeting.

Other times, he'd simply give me a small nod before continuing on his way.

I never did manage to get a smile out of him.

But that was okay.

At least I knew he recognized me.

After a while, though, I started noticing something strange.

Whenever I waved to Hanayama from across the street, people nearby would stare at me.

Some looked confused.

Others looked frightened.

A few even gave me disapproving looks.

I never really understood why.

I was only saying hello.

Anyway...

It was Saturday, which meant I finally had a day off from both the café and the hospital.

I spent most of the day helping my grandmother around the house, cleaning, running a few errands, and making sure she didn't overwork herself.

After everything was finished, I retreated to my room, rolled out my yoga mat, and spent the evening stretching while listening to music.

It was peaceful.

Exactly what I needed.

Then...

My phone buzzed.

Kozue

Kozue: Ume!! Want to hang out tonight? Baki's coming too!

I stared at the message for a moment.

Part of me wanted to stay home.

My room was quiet, cozy, and I was finally starting to relax.

But...

Kozue was my best friend.

Besides...

I was a little curious.

She talked about Baki so much that I wanted to see for myself if he was really as amazing as she claimed.

With a small smile, I picked up my phone and started typing my reply.

Kozue's POV

Today, Baki and I decided to go on a little date.

We were having a great time walking around the outlet mall, but after a while I started thinking about Ume.

I wanted my best friend to be there too.

I looked over at Baki.

"Hey... would you mind if I invited Ume to come hang out with us?"

He shrugged with a smile.

"I don't mind."

"Really?"

"Yeah."

I immediately pulled out my phone and sent her a text.