"Nakanishi-san, you scared me."

Michiko's voice was shrill with shock.

"I saw your name in the register in the lobby and could not believe you would be here."

"I had something to do. My aunt is resting and some ladies from the consulate are staying with her."

"Yes, I want to express my sincere condolences. Please let me know if I can be of any help to you."

Nakanishi stepped closer to the desk to see what she was doing. Michiko tried to cover the certificates with one of the envelopes, but Nakanishi quickly leaned forward and picked one up.

As he read the inscription his eyebrows rose.

"What is this?"

Michiko reached across and snatched the certificate away. Hideo was too surprised to resist.

"My uncle gave them to me, with his instructions. They are none of your business."