75 Chapter one, 2016, crescendo: 3 (2/2)

”Sorry,” she said, ”but I'd rather not hug.” 'With your girlfriend right next to you as well. Or do all people greet each other that way in Sweden?'

”Nesrin Kaplan, pleased to meet you.” That hand was smaller and came from a more normal height. She was a girl after all. Noriko took the offered hand after Yakobuson-san had released hers.

”You wrote that you'd wait for us here with a friend,” Yakobuson-san said.

Noriko nodded. Being around Urufu and Kuri had done wonders to her English, but the Swedes still spoke too fast in their sing song accent.

”I'll call him,” she said and dug up her phone from her handbag.

”That won't be needed,” said a voice from behind her.

'Yukio?'

”Sorry I'm late.” He switched to English. ”I'm Yukio Matsumoto, pleased to meet you both.” Yukio looked up at Yakobuson-san. ”Man, how tall are you really? We don't get many like you over here.”

”He's 196, and he's got muscles as well,” Kapulan-san said and snuggled up closer to her boyfriend.

He did. It was like looking at a walking blond wall. 'You didn't pick that T-shirt by accident. There's something with you that I don't like,' Noriko thought.

”That's a lot,” Yukio said and turned to the girl. ”You two are staying in my father's place. Mom's here with a car to get your luggage.” He took a look at the gigantic backpacks and smiled at Noriko. ”Looks like I have to make the trip to the apartment as well. Noriko, they're waiting for us in the park. Could you take them there?”

Noriko looked at the backpacks. It made sense and she nodded. ”Follow me,” she offered to Kapulan-san. ”Yukio will be back after he's dumped your luggage. Anything you need from it right now?”

”Not me. I have my sunglasses and wallet. Anders?”

The tall Swede shook his head. ”Maybe I should get rid of this one though,” he said and took off his hat.

'Thanks for small gifts.' ”Maybe you should. It's hot today,” Noriko said. 'This is going to be interesting. They talk so fast, and my English really isn't all that good.'

Tomorrow promised to be interesting with the visiting giant in tow. Yakobuson-san was certain to attract interest when they arrived at Shibuya.