In the spring of 1872, Ranmaru's dream project finally began. He gushed as the Parisian workers struck on the walls to make the windows bigger.
When Takuto arrived in the evening, they were still working, although almost done for the day. They were staying at a nearby place so they could stay for long. Of course, all of it was being paid for by Ranmaru. It was definitely an expensive endeavour but it was his heart's desire to have a memory of home with him all the time.
The work began on the weekend. On Monday, the problem arose when Ranmaru had to leave for work. He could not supervise and leaving them alone was out of the question. Perplexed, Ranmaru flopped down on his sofa. In the end, he dismissed the workers for the day and left for the office.
However, it was evident on his face that he was sad and of course, it didn't escape Takuto's observant gaze.
Ranmaru was hesitant to let him know at first since he felt like all he ever did was bring his problems to him and he fixed them. He didn't want to be dependent on him like a child. Takuto asked him a couple of times but he remained tight-lipped.
At this, Takuto was disappointed. He couldn't bear to see Ranmaru sad but without knowing the matter he couldn't remedy it. He was vexed by this, so much so, that he was distracted all day. He even made a couple of mistakes, something he rarely did.
Ranmaru was surprised to see him mess up. He quickly figured that he was the reason for his disorientation. The fact surprised him greatly. He had no idea his problems would bother Takuto to this point. He didn't want him to keep making mistakes and get embarrassed so finally, after the work hours, he let him know.
"Oh, that's it?" Takuto took a deep breath, "I was worried it was something much deeper."
"But it is a big problem to me!" Ranmaru exclaimed. He then leaned back on his chair and looked up with a wilted face, "My house, it's important to me."
"I know it is. " Takuto reassured him. He then began to think about what he could do to help the situation.
⚜
The following day Takuto introduced an old woman to Ranmaru.
"This is Mrs Watanabe. She has been working for my parents long before I was born. She practically raised me. " He revealed.
Ranmaru was both, confused and alert to suddenly be meeting such an important person from Takuto's life. He haphazardly bowed in front of her.
"From now on she can stay in your place and get the work done while you're at the office." Takuto explained.
Ranmaru gasped, "Oh, no, no! I could not trouble her for that! "
Takuto chuckled, "She just knits or sews all day. She could just do that at your place. "
Ranmaru was speechless, "Uh...are you sure I wouldn't be overstepping? Has she agreed to it?"
"Yes, I have explained it to her. She would be happy to help my friend." He smiled faintly as he said the word 'friend'.
Ranmaru paused for a moment to process the offer. Then at once, he bowed in front of her again.
"I am grateful. "
At this, she took a few hobbling steps forward,
"I am happy to help you, lady. "
Ranmaru looked up instantly in shock and helplessness. Takuto couldn't help it and let out a roaring laughter.
⚜
"What is going on here?" Mrs Watanabe exclaimed as she looked around Ranmaru's apartment. Half of it was broken down and the other half had an ungodly amount of stuff piled on top of each other.
