We kept staring at the spot as if mesmerized.

 

'She was wearing a white kimono,' I said. 'Some of her hair had come undone. It

was blowing around a little.'

 

Kikuko pushed her elbow against my arm.

 

'Oh be quiet. You're trying to frighten me all over again.' She trod on the

remains of her cigarette, then for a brief moment stood regarding it with a

perplexed expression. She kicked some pine needles over it, then once more

displayed her grin.

 

'Let's see if supper's ready,' she said.

 

We found my father in the kitchen. He gave us a quick glance, then carried on

with what he was doing.

 

'Father's become quite a chef Since he's had to manage on his own,' Kikuko said

with a laugh. He turned and looked at my sister coldly.

 

'Hardly a skill I'm proud of,' he said. 'Kikuko, come here and help.'

 

For some moments my sister did not move. Then she stepped forward and took an

apron hanging from a drawer.