Creative Story : A Short Story

Aiko was slumped forward over the table. The private dining hall was perfect, quiet and peaceful. “What’s wrong, Aiko?” Danny asked from beside her. “There’s so much stuff to practice. The ceremonies, the dance, manners, posture. All these little details. I have to get my dress fitted too…” Aiko sighed. “I’m getting anxious.” “Whatever happened to the carefree Aiko I love so much?” Danny asked as he picked up a glass. Aiko sighed. “She didn’t grow up completely. She’s just busy right now.” “I miss her.” Danny smiled at Aiko. “I miss carefree Danny too. What about him?” Aiko asked. “He’s here. Just a little calmer than when he was a kid.” Danny smiled. Aiko smiled. “We should sneak out for a day.” Danny laughed. “We will. Just have to be responsible adults sometimes.” “How old is an adult?” Aiko asked. Danny shrugged. “Eighteen?” “You’re an adult now. But I’m not.” Aiko thought to herself for a moment. “What’s the legal minimum age for marriage in America?” “I think it is like 16 with parental permission?” Danny guessed. “I don’t know this stuff.” Aiko sighed as she picked up her tea. “Hm… what are we doing next?” Danny sighed. “We’ve already run through the checklist. Everything is done or just about done.” Aiko stretched out her arms. Danny looked up at the ceiling. “I would ask if you wish to train, but I still have about six weeks until your father will let me back into the temple for full training. My shoulder is still healing. Although, I am healing faster than expected.” Aiko smiled. “Yeah… is there anything going on today?” Danny shrugged. “Like what?” “Festivals, celebrations, observances…?” Aiko listed. “Not today. But we have some coming up this weekend.” Danny smiled. “There is the Raksha Bandhan and Ghost Festival on the full moon.” Aiko’s face lit up. “That’s going to be a great day, that will be so fun! I love the Raksha Bandhan! Is Ryu excited?” Danny shrugged. “I haven’t seen her today. And I don’t know if she even knows about it.” “Do you remember Raksha Bandhan?” Aiko asked. “Yes,” Danny smiled. “I still have the rakhi you gave me, from just about every year.” It took a minute, Danny smiled as he watched what he had said sink in. Aiko’s face turned hot pink. “What?” “We never did the