Kappa Sushi is a sushi-go-round restaurant which is only a few steps from the dorm, just across the street. As they approach the entrance, the sight of a lengthy queue prompts Zoe and Kaito to wait patiently outside. Zoe keeps her hands buried in her pockets, unable to conceal her amazement as she scrutinizes the interior of the restaurant. There are booths good for groups of people, and there are also separate counters for people who prefer to eat alone. A mesmerizing conveyor belt snakes its way around the entire place, adorned with a tempting assortment of sushi plates and other delectable dishes, making it effortless for customers to choose their desired treats. The final bill is skillfully calculated based on the colors and numbers of plates they've picked.
Kaito, amused by Zoe's awe-struck expression, casually leans against the wall with his arms crossed. Curious about her stay, he inquires, "How long will you be here?"
"I'll be here only for the spring and summer semesters," she answers, her gaze still on the circulating plates of sushi. "How about you?"
"Ah, I've been here since the fall and winter semesters," Kaito responds, sharing his own plans. "After this summer, I'll be heading back to the Philippines."
She turns to look at him. "Have you gotten used to this place?"
He half-shrugs. "I had to. It was only difficult at first because of the language barrier."
"But you know how to speak Japanese, right?"
"Yeah, just enough to survive," he responds. "So, what do you think of Japan so far?"
"Overall, I find it incredibly beautiful, and the public transit system is fantastic," Zoe begins, pausing for a moment. "It's just that..."
Kaito waits for her to continue.
"I think the Japanese are a little... Aloof? I guess I'm just used to the warmth and hospitality of the Filipinos who won't mind their own business. Sometimes. And um, it's difficult to talk to locals. Did you see me asking for directions earlier? I didn't expect it would be that hard, to be honest. I saw it coming since I read things to prepare myself. But I was still... Shocked. Seeing it first hand was quite an experience."
Kaito nods slowly.
"English speakers are intimidating to many," he says with a slight grin.
"Yes... I heard about that." She recalls the man she asked earlier and wonders if that was the case.
Kaito explains, offering insight into the Japanese perspective, "Most Japanese people are disciplined and respectful. They try not to inconvenience others, which may sometimes make them appear unfriendly. For example, they find direct eye contact rude and don't typically smile at strangers, but that's just part of their cultural norms. Don't worry, you'll still come to love it here, I promise."
"Yes, I believe so," she mutters. "But it's kind of scary. Earlier, I wouldn't have known what to do if not for you. I might have ended up at a police station. I felt so helpless and stupid."
"Zoe, you got through it. It only gets better."
Somehow, his words comfort her. She stares at him, her lips twitching into a smile revealing her right dimple. "Thanks, Kaito."
Their number comes up, and a waitress approaches to assist them. As soon as they are seated, Kaito teaches Zoe how to place a special order using an iPad. She beams. Again, he thinks that her expression is adorable. He has never encountered someone so transparent. Their orders arrive shortly, and they start eating.
"Do you like it?" Kaito asks as he swallows a piece of salmon sushi.
"Yes, it's good. I'm not a fan of eating raw food, but sushi is always an exception," she answers, happily popping a piece of tuna sushi into her mouth.
YOU ARE READING
The Spring I Met You
Romance"Things that are special, though temporary, tend to last longer in our memories," Kaito says. Zoe recalls the Hanami party that they had and everything that has happened since she arrived. She remembers every detail perfectly. She nods slowly. "You'...
