Chapter 2.12: July 23, 2017
"We're almost here."
"Beth?"
"Yes, Erunai?"
"I wasn't entirely sure what we were doing all dressed up in these fancy clothes, but I went along with it. Now, however, I don't think I can stay silent about the matter. What in the world are we doing at a five star gourmet restaurant?"
"To be honest, it wasn't really my idea. I found out that Ken had lined up a reservation here last year for your birthday, so all I did was postpone it by a year."
"He's such a dork."
"I think it's just proof of his love for you, though."
"Yeah, I guess. I miss him so much."
"We all do, Erunai. Not to the same degree as you, but he still left an impact on all of us. Oh, when—"
"I'm sorry, Beth. I can't talk about this right now. I just—Let's enjoy this dinner, yeah?"
"Of course. Of course, Erunai."
"Good evening, ladies. Do you have a reservation?"
"Yes, under the name Kirito?"
"Ah, yes. Right this way, ladies."
"Thank you."
"Good evening. My name is Thomas, and I'll be your server tonight. May I suggest this bottle of—"
"I'm sorry, Thomas, but we don't drink. We're underaged."
"This is actually her twentieth birthday celebration."
"I see. I'm sorry."
"No need to apologize. You didn't know, but now you do. And that's all that matters."
"You seem to have an extra chair. Would you like me to take it away?"
"Yes—"
"No, no! It's all right. That's an honorary placeholder for someone who couldn't be here tonight."
"I see. Well, I'll leave you to decide on your choice of appetizer, entreé, and dessert."
"Thanks, Thomas. What are you getting, Erunai?"
"I don't know. Whatever sounds the fanciest, I suppose."
"That sounds like something Ken would say."
"Yeah, I guess."
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