"We're at Kanae's," Yukimura said, his throat dry, his voice cracking as he spoke.

The girls' voices stilled and there was some movement. "Would you like some tea?" Mame-chan asked from the doorway. Yukimura turned and saw her kneeling, properly attired for a geisha again.

Yukimura smiled, a half laugh in his voice as he said, "Yes, thank you."