Summary

“After Shuichi and his wife died,” Gohtaro took over his restaurant and raised Haruka alone (53). Although Gohtaro had many talents, his new life was difficult. Haruka was only one, and was often upset. Life did not get easier as Haruka got older, but Gohtaro never “wavered in his resolve to provide [her] a happy upbringing” (54, 55). Three months prior, Haruka brought Satoshi Obi home and announced that their relationship “might lead to marriage” (55). Although Gohtaro gave Obi his blessing to marry Haruka, he felt guilty “for lying to her” (55). He knew she would discover the truth about her family when she registered for marriage. Although it would hurt her, Gohtaro knew she needed to know.

Gohtaro returned to the café 22 years prior. Shuichi emerged from the restroom, shocked to see Gohtaro looking older when he returned to the table. While sitting with...