The wind whispered his name. He smiled sadly. “Asai, just Asai. No loss in that.” Turning from the sea, he entered the temple. That night he made love to Sawako for the last time.
~~~
They rose early and in silence. He watched her dress then walk to where he sat on the window ledge. She kissed him long and deeply. Then picking up a scroll from her table, she left not looking back. He watched her go, her tears cool on his face.
Asai stayed at the window until he saw her descend the Steps. Then he dressed and broke fast lightly. He visited each servant, saying his good-byes without saying so. In the nursery, he held his son for a long time, singing in a low soft voice a song that Sawako sang to Shirotori each night. He left special instructions with the servant who cared for the child.
I
