The lie he had told plagued him.
-- Narrator (I)

Importance: When Gohtaro's best friend Shuichi and his wife die in a car accident, Gohtaro assumes the care of their young daughter Haruka. Instead of telling her about her parents and their deaths, Gohtaro lies, telling Haruka that he is her father and that her mother passed away when she was little. For 22 years, Gohtaro has maintained this lie. Although he has derived happiness from his relationship with Haruka, his lie has made him feel guilty for betraying his friend. The author uses this moment to introduce his interest in exploring secrets and deception, as well as guilt and regret. Although Gohtaro's lie helped Haruka feel less alone, he knows it will hurt her, and fears it has dishonored his late best friend.

You deserve to be happy!
-- Shuichi (I)

Importance: After hearing that Haruka is going to get married, Gohtaro travels into the past to see...