***
"Where is Hiroshi?" Haruki asked directly, finding perfunctory greetings unnecessary.
Dr. Yamamoto cleared his throat cautiously before responding, "He clocked out an hour ago. I think he has gone home."
Think? Haruki was very sure that the man was avoiding him. He rose up and nodded at the old man before walking past him out of the office.
Hiroshi had left work from the ward without returning to the office. He was certain Hiroshi had left his bag in the office and returned it simply because he didn't want to meet him.
As he walked towards his car, he wondered if he should go to Hiroshi's home or return to the hospital the next day. To think the man left work in a hurry after finding out he was waiting for him at his office; he decided to drive home for the day.
***
