The Merchant and Tavern Master

Morning Talk between Us

"Good morning, Sofia," mother called cheerfully.

"G..good morning, ma'am.. I.. I'm sorry I fell asleep in your room," Sofia dejectedly apologized.

"Oh, there's no need to worry about that, dear. Come here, let's wash your face. And, Takahiko, after this, please take Sofia for a walk to show her the village. Let her experience the beauty of our home. Don't get involved in anything else just yet, understand?" Mother seemed to encourage me to spend time with Sofia.

Once again, my brothers' words about Sofia's feelings for me echoed in my mind. I wondered if my mother shared the same thoughts. As for me, I find myself unable to let go of the memories of my past love. I'm not even sure if I can see Sofia in a romantic light. I must admit she's adorable, and I found joy in our journey together. I feel embarrassed and inexperienced when it comes to matters of the heart. I can't help but wonder, what's so special about me?

I followed my mother's instructions and headed to the washbasin to freshen up my face. Afterward, I waited for Sofia by the front door. It didn't take long for her to join me, her face still flushed with a touch of shyness. Mother gave her a gentle nudge towards me.

"Now, go and enjoy your walk," Mother said, playfully pushing us out of the house.

Sofia and I stood there awkwardly, not quite sure what to say to each other. But as the older one, I knew I had to take the lead.

"Shall we go, Sofia?" I asked, trying to break the silence.

"Yes," she nodded, looking slightly relieved, and together we started our stroll.

Shielded by the morning chill, we strolled closely side by side. Sofia was still clad in her sleeping attire, but a shawl, likely from my mother, wrapped around her to ward off the cold. Her hair was neatly arranged, giving her a composed appearance. I noticed her eyes seemed a bit swollen and puffy, as if she had shed tears recently. Despite being a 15-year-old teenager, there was a certain maturity in her demeanor.

"Did you cry last night?" I asked gently, concerned.

"Eh? Uh... I did, actually," she admitted, looking surprised. The mature facade she had displayed moments ago faded into her usual expression.

"I hope my mother didn't say something unpleasant to you," I expressed my worry, trying to understand the reason behind her tears.

"Oh, no! No! Your mother was really kind to me last night! We just had a really serious talk, and I... I got a bit emotional at that time... Ahaha," she chuckled, attempting to brush it off. However, I knew my mother wouldn't mistreat her.

"Is that so," I replied calmly.

I calmly changed the subject, "So, what do you think about this village?"

Sofia closed her eyes, and with a solemn tone, she replied, "I like it here. It's so calming, and time seems to flow at a gentler pace. I've never been to a place quite like this before."

Smiling, I acknowledged her response, "I understand. You've been a city girl for a long time."

She pouted playfully, thinking I was teasing her, "What's wrong with being a city girl?"

Quick to reassure her, I explained, "Oh, nothing is wrong with it at all. I just didn't want you to feel uncomfortable or unsatisfied with the simpler life we have here."

"Oh, no, I would never complain about that. I was the one who insisted on following you here, remember? I don't mind at all", She hurriedly assured me

Her reassurance brought a sense of relief, and I gratefully replied, "I'm grateful you introduced me to your mother, Takahiko. She is a strong woman. And your brothers, they can be quite enjoyable company."