Shortly after Hiro left for the factory, the phone rang. It was Mr Ikemoto inviting us to the Tricolore Coffee House on Nanking Road as a ‘thank you’ for Taka's birthday party. ‘It's not a fancy place, but the coffee is good. Would you and Mr Kishimoto be available around 3 o’clock this afternoon?’

Ignoring my beating heart, I spoke slowly and deliberately. ‘Hiroshi is at work today and will not be able to make it, but I can come, if that is all right with you.’

I surprised myself with my boldness, but it was a result of some soul searching. The shock I’d felt upon learning that Mr Ikemoto was a married man had completely thrown me, and made me realize I had developed an infatuation. So exciting it had been, my naive attraction to him! But that wasn't what I was seeking. I now felt tender sympathy and respect for a man parted from his wife and son, devoting himself to Christian activities in time of war. I wanted to get to know him better, to become a friend.

I cycled along Bubbling Well Road to the centre of town, not entirely comfortable with the prospect of spending an afternoon alone with Mr Ikemoto. The Tricolore was easy to find, with its red, white and blue, French-style awning partially covering the pavement. The colours had faded, giving the place a well-established feel. Before walking in, I smoothed out my skirt and hair, and took in a deep breath.

The place was crowded, filled with the aroma of coffee and cigarette smoke. I looked around, and found him standing by a corner table, waving at me with his reassuring smile. We exchanged Japanese bows and greetings and settled down to order. I followed his recommendation for a Viennese coffee, not realizing until later that the creamy mixture of coffee and chocolate had a shot of some liqueur, perhaps helping me feel even more relaxed and expansive throughout the afternoon. He himself ordered a plain black coffee.