‘That’s what I told her too,’ Eri said. ‘Such a waste of talent to cook just for you.’

They all laughed.

‘Try the wine,’ Eri said, leading them in a toast. ‘Cheers.’

They clinked their wine glasses. Shoji held the stem, admiring the bright, golden colour. He swirled his wine and took a sniff. The aroma was rich and intense. On the first sip, he tasted honey and preserved fruits. A truly great pairing with the food.

Shoji reached for the bottle to read the label: 1990 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru.

‘Don’t ask me about it,’ Eri said. ‘I know nothing about wine.’

He put it back. ‘Why did you get this? A recommendation from someone?’

‘A date that didn’t work out gave it to me. Rather than leaving it in the fridge, I thought I should bring it over so we can enjoy it together. It’s not like I can finish the entire bottle by myself.’

‘Why not?’ Liyun took a sip. ‘You could drink it slowly.’

‘True,’ Eri said, ‘but I think wine is better enjoyed together.’

‘What happened to your date? Why didn’t it work out?’ Liyun asked.

Shoji frowned. Wasn’t she being a bit too upfront?

Eri shrugged, taking a bite of the fish. ‘Perhaps he’s too fancy for me. Wine and all that. I’m just an average office worker.’ She glanced at Liyun. ‘It’s good to be young. As you get older, it’s more and more challenging to find a decent man to date. Maybe it’s time for me to give up.’

‘Don’t be hard on yourself,’ Shoji said. ‘You’re an amazing woman, Eri. You’re smart, independent, and hard-working, even though sometimes you can be harsh and stubborn.’

Eri laughed. ‘Hey, are you insulting me?’ She averted her eyes, probably out of embarrassment.

Her words reminded him of Yoko. She had responded in the same way when he told her he loved everything about her.

After they had finished dinner, Liyun suggested Eri and Shoji finish up the wine while she cleared away. Eri volunteered to help, but Liyun turned her down, saying, ‘You’re our guest.’ While Liyun was in the kitchen, Eri and Shoji settled on the sofa, cradling their glasses.

‘Thanks for inviting me over,’ she said, drinking her wine. ‘Also, for making me feel better just now.’

‘Hey, those are my honest thoughts,’ he said. ‘Any man would be lucky to have you.’

She leaned back on the sofa. ‘I usually don’t mind being on my own but, from time to time, I long for a companion.’

He poured her the remaining wine, though there wasn’t much left.