“Hide, what is this?”
Kaneki stares at the enormous rose bouquet that’s about the same size as his friend.
“It’s Valentine’s day, and you deserve this. Especially since your last date didn’t go too well.” Hide winks.
Kaneki touches his eyepatch, unconsciously. “Yeah.”
Hide pokes the eyepatch. “Kakugan out?”
Kaneki gasps. “Hide!”
“Kaneki, I know.” Hide sighs. “I still want you to be my Valentine’s date.”
“You – you know – you mean -” Kaneki stammers. His eyes slide to Touka, who once threatened Hide should he find out.
But Touka’s changed, even if just slightly, over the last few months. To his surprise, he sees a faint smile on her face.
“We can close up shop.” Enji Koma shoves Kaneki out from behind the counter.
“Will you be my Valentine?” Hide beams at his friend.
“Uh – uh – help me with the flowers first! Then yes,” Kaneki blurts.
When they leave Anteiku, the entire shop is filled with Roses, and Kaneki’s heart is filled with happiness.
Mercy and Magic 