The Merchant and Tavern Master

The Tavern Without Master

The tavern remained closed for a while, observing a period of mourning. The usual bustling activity was absent, and the workers seemed to have been granted time off in light of the funeral. Madam, in her quiet strength, offered me a familiar drink, the Morning Dew ale, which I gratefully accepted. Beside me, Sofia sat, clutching my left hand tightly, unwilling to let go. Since the burial, she had been holding onto me as if seeking solace in our shared grief. I understood the depth of her pain, and I didn't mind offering her this small comfort, knowing it meant so much to her.

Silently sipping my ale with my right hand, I allowed my thoughts to wander. The warmth of the drink contrasted with the heaviness in my heart. My gaze shifted around the tavern, realizing the void left by Master's absence. I wondered how the tavern would fare without his presence. Would the patrons continue to flock here, even without Master's beaming smile behind the bar, extending his warm welcome to all who entered?

"Sofia, it's time to let go of Takahiko's hand," Madam gently admonished her daughter, her voice filled with understanding. "I know we're all grieving, and it's natural to seek solace in each other's presence. But it wouldn't be fair to burden Takahiko any further."

"I don't mind, Madam. I understand Sofia's grief, for I too, shared in the depths of her sorrow. Please, let her be," I gently interjected, offering a reassuring smile. "We all cope in different ways, and if holding my hand brings her some comfort, then I willingly give my hand for her to grasp it as long as she desired."

Sofia's gaze met mine. Her eyes spoke volumes, expressing a mix of gratitude, relief, and longing.

"I'm sorry that you had to cancel your journey for us," Madam's small voice filled with a tinge of guilt.

I shook my head. "Please, don't be sorry. Master was like a second father to me, and that makes both Madam and Sofia my family as well. It's only natural for me to want to be by your side during this time."

Madam nodded appreciatively, her eyes welling up with tears. "We are grateful for your presence, Takahiko. You have truly been a pillar of support and a dear friend to our family."

I reassured them both, my voice filled with sincerity. "Please, don't worry. I made a promise to Master to assist you in any way I can. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help."

"In that case, can I leave Sofia with you for a while?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern, "I need to go to the tavern guild to confirm some documents regarding my husband."

I nodded, understanding the importance of her responsibilities. "Of course, Madam. You can trust me to take care of Sofia."

"Sofia, I'll leave you for a while. Don't trouble Takahiko too much, okay?" Madam gently said to Sofia, her motherly concern evident in her voice.

Sofia, still grappling with her emotions, simply nodded in response, not trusting her voice to speak at that moment. Madam then turned and left, the door closing behind her with a soft click, leaving Sofia and me alone in the quiet tavern. 

Me and Sofia maintained our silence, our hands tightly clasped together. I understood her need for solace, and I patiently waited for her to find the words to express her fears.

"I'm sorry," she at last spoke, with her voice filled with vulnerability.

"There's no need to apologize, Sofia," I reassured her gently.

"It's just.. I.. I'm afraid. If I release your hand, it feels like you will be gone too. I can't bear the thought of facing loneliness after losing my father."

"It's okay to feel scared, Sofia. Losing someone we love is incredibly difficult."

She looked at me with tear-filled eyes, searching for guidance.