Year: 2017 – Early Spring
Ren Akihara (Age 11) – 6th Grade, Shizuoka Public Elementary School
Haruto Akihara (Age 12) – 1st Year, Shizuoka East Junior High School
Ren walked home alone that day.
The usual route, once filled with laughter and teasing between him and Haruto, now echoed only the quiet rhythm of his footsteps. A soft breeze rustled the cherry blossom trees, and their petals danced briefly before falling to the ground.
He passed the old candy shop. The red awning was slightly more faded now, and the glass display looked emptier than he remembered. The shopkeeper wasn't there today.
Ren didn't stop.
Since Haruto entered junior high, things had changed.
They no longer shared the same schedule. No more walking together in the morning, no more idle talk after school. Even at home, their conversations were fewer—short, practical exchanges. "Did you eat?" "Homework done?" "Where's Mom?"
Ren wasn't bothered. Not outwardly.
At dinner, Ayaka placed dishes on the table as usual. Miso soup, grilled fish, pickled vegetables.
Haruto sat across from Ren but barely looked up from his plate.
Ayaka tried to smile. "Ren, how was school?"
"It was fine."
Haruto remained quiet.
Ayaka glanced between them but said nothing.
After dinner, Ren sat by the window in the living room. Outside, the streetlight flickered softly. In the reflection of the glass, he could see his own eyes staring back.
There was no loneliness in his gaze.
Only… observation.