Reminiscing The Past • Rurouni Kenshin

Chapter 11 | Him

Kenshin was genuinely happy from the bottom of his heart. He never thought Mei would forgive him, but the brunette knew deep in her heart that she couldn't stay mad at him forever.

They talked to each other almost everyday, being in need of catching up since they haven't seen each other in a decade.

Nearly a month later, Mei returned to her jobs; Being a waitress by day and a criminal catcher by night.

And after many weeks her depression was gone, she was fresh, happy and radiant as ever. Mei's bright smile that everyone admired has finally returned to her face.

It was a warm, sunny afternoon in Japan. The flowers were blooming, the civilian's colourful clothing brightened the streets of Tokyo.

Music was faintly heard in the background as everyone sauntered across the streets and clapped along with the rhythm.

Mei was at her day job: The Akabeko. Her smile widened every time she saw the civilians out the window of the Akabeko, causing her to slightly hum to the music herself.

Tsubame and Tae were glad to have their co-worker return to the restaurant, they felt a sudden loneliness ever since she left. But now that she returned, they were as happy as ever.

"Isn't it wonderful? Everyone looks so happy and radiant!" Mei exclaimed as she swiftly turned to Tae and Tsubame, "Oh, it is! Who knew that even if there's no special occasion, everyone can still dress brightly and have fun!" Tae agreed.

The three had talked for a few moments doors of the restaurant had opened, "Welcome to the Akabeko!" Tae, Mei and Tsubame exclaimed in union.

Their four usual customers flashed them kind smiles as they entered the restaurant and bowed, "What a pleasant surprise ~!" Mei grinned as she gestured for them to follow her to their booth.

"It's great to see ya, missie." Sanosuke smirked as he chewed on his fish bone. They all greeted each other as Mei took out her tiny notebook to take their order, "So, what's your order today?" She asked politely.

"Everything. I'm starving." Yahiko groaned, "Hey! Stop being greedy! We can't afford everything, you know!" Kaoru interjected and smacked the boy's head.

"I'm sure he doesn't mean that, Kaoru." Mei laughed as she saw the sapphire-eyed girl's irritated expression. "We will just take the usual, that we will. Thank you, Mei."

Kenshin smiled at the brunette, "Sure thing, redhead. I'll be back in a jiffy, my lovely customers!" Mei winked before dashing off.

"Thanks Mei!" Kaoru yelled to the brunette, "Boy, are you guys getting more needy by the day..." Kaoru mumbled,

"Oro?"

• • •

As Mei made her way to the kitchen, she saw a familiar face greet her from the entrance of the restaurant, "Oh! Hajime-san!" Mei exclaimed and grinned happily as she bowed to the police officer, "How do you do, Mei?" He returned the gesture.

Mei smiled kindly as she gestured for him to follow her to a booth, "It's unusual seeing you here," She said, secret coding for an explanation, "O-Oh, yes,  you're right. This was...the closest place to HQ," He says, looking away from her view.