Murakami's Links
By some way of chance, Murakami is Alan's main graphic designer for his published work. Neither of them know the other is a Mignyan, and Murakami is just a touch too naïve to read just slightly deeper into Mr. Fitzgeralds writing. It resounds with him that the author describes his main character as something inhuman, and Murakami is admittedly guilty of providing discounts when he knows Alan can't exactly afford it. He can just send the check in next week. Or the next after that. They communicate solely through digital means.
"........Oh, ah, you've seen some of the fabrics I've done.. ? Ah, thank you, of course, thank you. Please don't mention it, you can send it in whenever the time is best for you. I think my calendar might be booked that day.. maybe some other time, but still, I'm very glad you liked it. I, haha, um, really enjoyed the text."
Mr. Murakami! ":-)" The work you did for the cover of Lepidopterology was simply extraordinary, I cannot thank you enough for such an interest-piquing display! I cannot possibly describe the harmony with the written text... and I appreciate the discounted price deeply, of course. But! I have been on the 'Internet' as of late, and I've found your work on clothing! Perhaps you would be interested in discussing neckwear in-person?
Murakami can only assume Vespa means well, but the pity drink makes him uneasy and reaffirms his constant nagging thoughts that everyone is drilling their eyes into him. He's so painfully self-aware; it feels like his whole head is on fire. Despite this, he appreciates the gesture nonetheless and would like to try talk with them, even if he doesn't drink...
i... can't help but feel a little bad for him. i might offer to buy him a drink next time i see him in koji's bar. and i supposed i can relate to his predicament, if only a little... lost limb solidarity
Murakami is very relieved to have Joseph's company. Something about the way he talks and carries himself -- in any other case, Murakami would immediately assume the usual pity conversation, but Joseph is so nonchalant and dulcet in a way that makes him only /slightly/ anxious. He appreciates that most conversations are work related.
"Oh.. haha, um, you mean the typesetter... ? And, um, good, thank you. Just stopping in from a, uh, grocery run, you know how it tends to be... maybe I.. could call over K-Koji to fix a drink?"
Joseph holds no ill bearings towards Murakami nor his appearance, and makes it a verbal point by sitting down in the barstool next to him for conversation, or by throwing out a greeting as he walks past. He feels bad for the poor man, but would only show it by treating him as he would treat anyone else. -- "Mr. Murakami. Burning the candle at both ends, eh? How's your latest call going? Actually, while I'm here, you wouldn't mind me slinging a market opportunity your way, would you? See, gazette just lost... huh. Funny. The name escapes me, but you know the guy who does the, uh, typefaces?"
Okay thank you. i have to go put my neck in a closing car door
WOW! I CAN SEE YOUR BRAIN!