The speed that Wren had picked up ASL still amazes Hana and makes her that much more smitten with him. There's very little texting or lip reading, just communication in a way that feels as natural to her as breathing and with which Wren's gaining a lot of skill. For a second, she almost forgets what he says, too caught up in the happy feeling and in petting Inari's little ears.

I do make friends every now and then, she replies, smiling. She beckons Inari into a crooked arm and balances the palmiers with the other, her small carry bag set aside.