Summary

Akio is a young man who has just ended a relationship with his girlfriend, Masako. This is the first time he has initiated a breakup and it is a moment he has long anticipated. Now, as he and the young girl walk in the rain, he thinks about the scene that has just transpired and the events leading up to it.

Akio had initiated and endured the relationship for the simple purpose of being able to break up with Masako. As he thought about how the scene might unfold, he imagined he would feel strong – almost heroic – when the moment finally came. Instead, he is surprised to find that the words almost stick in his throat and he fears that Masako did not hear him. His fears are alleviated when, almost instantly, she begins to cry.

Because they are in a...