Initiation Love (2015)

[bunniefuu]

July 10, 1987
Shizuoka

I'm thankful to the phone call I received on that day.

Because of that phone call, I was able to meet her.

Hello?

Suzuki, right? It's Mochizuki.

Oh... What's up?

There's actually a mixer tonight.

What, a mixer?

Hey Mochizuki, how are the girls today?

Hmm?

They're Yuko's high school friends.

Some of them are junior college students.

Oh, that's great.

I was only invited to the mixer because the numbers were uneven.

The only reason a fat and boring person like me was invited

was undoubtedly because there was no one else.

Good evening!

Welcome! Come in, come in!

Pardon us.

Yo, we were waiting for you!

Are you a middle aged man?

Good evening.

That was the first time she laid her eyes upon me.

Any students of Shizutan here?

Slow down, idiot!

Is everyone okay with beer?

Can I order some sake?

Already?!

Excuse me! Beer and sake please!

Now then...

Cheers!

Subbed by AKB48 Bits

Um... I'm Naruoka Mayuko.

Is that ring a ruby?

What? Ah... Yes.

Did your boyfriend give it to you?

No.

It was my birthday last week so I bought it for myself.

Because ruby is the birthstone of July.

Wow, it's so pretty.

It looks expensive.

Also, I work as a dental assistant.

Really? At which dentist?

It's called Akiyama Dental Clinic, located in Ichibancho.

You're not a student?

Do you wear a nurse outfit then?

Yes, a pink one.

Check my teeth.

Like how you normally do it.

Men get excited just by the way a nurse speaks.

Give her a break! How perverted!

Excuse me.

I'm Suzuki Yuki.

Um... I'm in the school of mathematical sciences

and my hobby is reading.

What's up with you?

It's his first time at a mixer, so he's nervous.

Oh, is that so?

He's a serious type so he doesn't go out much.

But he already has a job offer from Fujitsu in Tokyo.

Wow, that's a major company.

Having fun, Suzuki?

What?

Yeah.

Kitahara is showing off his magic tricks right now.

It's popular with the ladies.

Is that so.

Make the most of this opportunity.

Ah... Yeah.

Ah! Thank you for earlier.

What?

You were trying to help me, right?

It was nothing.

Wait, Suzuki-san.

I think we're going to a karaoke after this.

Are you coming too?

Ah... Yes.

Good.

Since then,

I've been unable to forget the way she looked at me.

July 17

Akiyama Dental Clinic.

This is Akiyama Dental!

What?

I mean, uh... Suzuki speaking.

It's Mochizuki.

Oh... What's up?

You know the group at the mixer?

We're planning on going to Shizunami Beach next month.

What?

Why don't you come to? It's summer break after all

and you don't have anything going on, right?

August 2

Suzuki, why do you still have your t-shirt on?

Ah... Well...

Hiding your stomach? Smart.

You're at the beach after all, so take your shirt off and enjoy it.

But sunburns are painful.

What?

Sorry for the wait!

Help me lay down the sheets.

Sure.

Sorry for the wait...

Cheers!

Cheers!

Awake now?

You seemed lonely, watching our stuff alone.

Everyone's playing over there.

Yeah...

I wonder if a couple will form within our group?

It's kind of similar to that drama, "7 Men and Women", right?

Yeah. There's actually 8 of us though.

I feel close to you, Suzuki-san.

Because we're similar, right?

Suzuki-san?

What happened?

N-Nothing at all.

Excuse me, but do you mind giving me a cigarette?

Cigarette? Sure...

Wait, you smoke?

Yes, occasionally at home.

Is it surprising?

Yes. I mean no. Here.

Thank you.

I don't smoke in front of my friends,

and I didn't plan to smoke today.

But I suddenly got the urge.

You don't like women who smoke, do you?

No, I don't mind.

This really is strong.

I usually smoke the Capri brand.

It's half the thickness of this one,

so I'm smoking double my usual amount.

No, the cross-sectional area is four times bigger.

So you're smoking four times the usual amount.

Wow! You really are a math major.

Are you always calculating things in your head?

No, I'm not so sure about that.

Then you must be good at memorizing numbers, right?

What?

What?

Okay, time's up!

Did you memorize it?

Yeah. Probably.

Then don't forget that number. It's my phone number after all.

Sure. What?!

I need to go back, or they'll find out that I smoke.

I'll go back first, so make sure you wait a bit before returning.

I kept repeating her number over and over.

August 9

I tried many times to call her, but I failed repeatedly.

No. Let's not do it after all.

It's not like anything will happen because I call.

Why am I getting my hopes up?

Have some courage, Suzuki Yuki!

TN: Yuki can also mean courage.

I like you. Mayuko-san please.
I like you. Mayuko-san please.

Hello.

H-Hello, Mayuko-san please.

You're speaking to her.

Is this Suzuki-san by any chance?

Yes! It is!

I'm so happy, I've been waiting for your call.

I'd given up hope.

I'm sorry, I was a bit busy.

Oh, I see.

And I was worried someone else might answer.

Oh, I didn't tell you? I live alone.

Huh, really?

Yes.

Actually...

I'm waiting for you to invite me out for a meal.

What?!

Everyone is going out to eat on Friday night, so

it felt lonely just eating by myself.

So I wanted to go with someone.

Of course, I'm not saying just anyone is okay.

No way, with someone like me?

I've never even gone out with a girl before.

When I see a guy who knows how to smooth talk the ladies,

I keep wondering how many hearts he's broken.

So I thought a guy who doesn't lie would be better,

even if he is a bit too serious and clumsy.

Ah... But you're busy, right?

I'm free, I'm super free!

Friday night, right?!

My work ends at 5:30pm, so maybe after that?

Then Naruoka-san...

Yes?

On the evening of Friday the 14th...

Would you like to go out for dinner?

Please take care of me.

August 14

Naruoka-san.

Suzuki-san? Why are you wearing a suit?

Oh, is it weird?

A little bit...

Reading is your hobby right? I love books too.

Really?

Yes. I'm curious, what kind of books do you read?

I mainly read mystery books.

I see.

Suspense... I've seen Hitchcock's movies.

I have the original "Rebecca" novel at home.

Oh... I don't have it, but I've heard of it.

If you're looking for something similar, there's a novel by Awasaka Tsumao.

Oh, really? You have it?

Yeah. I have several Awasaka Tsumao novels.

I want to read all of it.

What?

Then how about we each bring a book to share?

We'll better understand each other's interests with books.

T-That's true.

So, Takku...

Do you know what a tuck is?

Tuck?

Even adjusting it once will make you look more stylish.

I'm talking about clothes.

I'm saying it's better to wear something more stylish.

I'm sure you'll look good in it.

I don't really know much about fashion.

It might also be better to switch to contacts.

I'm heading that way.

I'm going to the train station, so that way.

So this is goodbye.

Yeah.

By the way, do you have a driver's license?

Huh? Ah... No.

Is it better to have one?

If you had a car, we could spend more time together.

What?

How about next Friday for our second date?

O-Of course.

Then next Friday, at the same location at the same time.

Yeah. Let's do that.

Bye bye.

Bye bye.

And like that, Friday became a special day for me.

Bye bye.

It looks good.

This also looks good.

R-Right.

Thank you very much.

Ow, ow.

It only hurts at first.

Ow ow ow.

It only hurts at first.

Ouch.

Oh. I can see.

Light bob... No, not that one.

Medium bob... Not that one either.

New arrange step regent.

This is it!

The difference between this and the traditional step regent

is that one side is cut a different length from the other.

It's a style where the hair on side near the ears and

neckline is cut using clippers and scissors.

August 21

You've changed a lot in just one week.

Yeah.

How is it?

How do you like it?

Yeah. You look much better now. I like it!

Really? Good to hear.

Oh yeah, I also brought this.

Oh. They're not paperbacks.

It's too heavy to carry back, right...

No, it's alright. I asked for it after all.

I brought mine too.

Here!

Ohh, thank you!

That reminds me, I have something to tell you.

What is it?

I've started driving school 2 days ago!

For your driver's license?

Yes.

Wooow! You move so fast!

Nah...

That makes me happy.

Because it's better to strike while the iron is hot.

That's great.

Suzuki-san, do you have a nickname?

Nickname?

I want to call you by a nickname.

The nicknames I've had so far... Like Su-san?

Yamamoto Susan Kumiko?

TN: Yamamoto Susan Kumiko was a member of the idol group Onyanko Club.

Your first name is Yuki right?

Yes, Yuki.

How do you write it?

It uses the same characters as "evening" and "tree".

Yu... ki.

The "Yu" kind of looks like the letter "Ta".

Then it's Taki-kun!

Taki?!

How about Takkun then? It's cute!

Ta-Takkun?

How about it?

How do you like it?

Yeah. I think it fits you perfectly.

Really? Then let's go with that.

So Takkun, what are you going to call me?

How about...

Mayu-chan.

Sounds good.

August 26

Seat belt... Check the rear using the side mirror.

Open the door slightly, check the rear again and quickly get out.

Yo... Sorry for the wait.

Hello. Ah, Mayu-chan.

I'm sorry, I can't make it this Friday.

Huh? What's wrong?

I don't feel so good right now.

Are you okay? Is it a cold?

Ah...

I'll probably feel better next week.

September 4

This beer is delicious! Maybe it's because I finally feel better now.

I'm glad you're feeling better.

You're still recovering, so you need to be careful.

Actually...

What really happened was...

I was constipated.

C-Constipated?!

You might think it's just constipation, but it's really tough for girls.

Thank you for waiting, here's your salami pizza.

My stomach was tight and painful.

I finally recovered after spending a night in the hospital.

Sorry. I don't really know what women go through.

Don't worry about it. Let's eat!

Yeah.

By the way, the group is playing tennis next.

Tennis?

September 15

Here.



Here I go!

Mayuko, you suck.

Kitahara and Naruoka pair victory!

You're good, Kitahara.

Finally, it's our turn now.

I'm counting on your support.

Yes.

Mochizuki, do your best!

Great!

Yuko-chan, you need to hit it.

What, really?

No way. This one too?

Good job guys.

Bye!

Drive safely.

What's wrong? Yuko help him.

May I?

Sure.

I'm closing it.

This seat belt tends to act up.

Sorry. Thank you.

Hello.

Takkun?

Mayu-chan...

Hey... Were you in a bad mood today?

What?

No, I wasn't.

Tell me, do you like Kazumi?

Huh, why?

You two were getting along well today.

No. Totally wrong. And we weren't getting along.

Really?

Really.

Mayu-chan, how do you feel about Kitahara?

You two were together the entire day.

Did the two of us

get jealous of each other for no reason?

Jealous?

I was... jealous too.

But...

Being jealous is a good thing, right?

Because it shows how much we like each other.

Takkun?

Mayu-chan.

Huh?

I...

I like you.

I... I love you.

Thank you, Takkun.

I also...

love you Takkun.

I want to see you.

Right this instant.

Come.

Come to my place.

Yes?

Good evening.

Good evening. Come in.

Yes.

You have a pretty room.

Not at all.

Come in.

"Einstein's World". You read books like that too?

Ahh... Yeah.

Hey...

I want you to say those words again.

What?

I mean what you said on the phone.

Let's see...

What did I say again?

I love you.

I love you, Mayu-chan.

Me too.

I love you, Takkun.

I'm glad you were my first.

With this we officially became a couple.

My life rapidly changed direction,

almost as if to balance out the bad luck I've had so far.

Let's buy matching ones.

Oh, sure.

It felt like I became the protagonist of a drama.

Everyday I felt happy just by thinking of Mayu-chan.

The drama "The Autumn Story of Seven Men and Women"

began airing on Fridays in October,

so we changed our date night to Thursday so Mayu-chan could watch it.

November 14

Time went by and I got my driver's license.

And I bought a used car.

What? Hey! Heeey!

Once I start working I'll buy a nicer car.

Don't overdo it.

Experiencing something like this for the first time,

it felt like I could do anything.

Christmas is coming soon!

Yeah, that's true.

Eating dinner at a hotel on Christmas Eve

and then staying there overnight would be the best!

You're completely booked for Christmas Eve right?

Another customer canceled just now,

so we have a vacant room.

What, it's open? Then can I make a reservation?

Certainly. Please wait a moment.

Someone just canceled today.

Really? That means there's a couple out there that broke up.

We need to be thankful to them.

December 24

And for the first time in my life, I'm able to spend Christmas Eve with a girl.

Six months ago, I would have never imagined that I would be spending

Christmas Eve with a girl in such a beautiful place.

Huh? You're not wearing your ring today?

Ahh, that...

Actually, it went somewhere.

What? That was a ruby.

I know...

I see.

Then on your next birthday, I'll give you a ring as a present.

What, really?

Yeah.

But this is your present for today.

Wow, I'm so happy!

Thank you.

This is one of those you keep inside right?

I'm so happy. I'll never take it off.

Really? That's a promise.

Of course.

Now then, Mayu-Santa also has a present for Takkun.

Here.

Wow, what are these?

It's so cool.

I thought they would look good on you.

What?

I've never given a present to a guy before.

So I didn't know what to give.

I'm sorry if you don't like it.

No...

No, I'm very happy.

I'm so relieved that you like them.

Next year and the year after that, let's spend Christmas Eve like this.

Yeah.

How is it? Does it look good on me?

You already put them on?

Poke, poke! Perfect fit.

Those two don't suit each other.

Stop it. Everyone has their own taste.

Let's go.

I'm sorry.

I've embarrassed you because of how I look.

What are you saying? You're fine the way you are.

But you would never call someone like me cool.

No way. You're cool right now.

Well, even though your a bit chubby right now,

you're a good person on the inside.

If you lost some weight, you might become super handsome.

Yeah...

Then I'll lose weight for your sake, Mayu-chan.

What? No, I didn't mean it like that.

No.

I have to become a better man for Mayu-chan.

That's my resolve as a man.

To bring happiness to Mayu-chan.

I understand.

Then I'll cheer you on.

Yeah.

Hey, wait!

Because I met her, my life suddenly made a 180 degree change.

Yes.

It's as if someone changed the cassette tape from side A to side B.

My new life has now started!

June 19

Good morning.

Good morning.

Suzuki-kun!

Yes?

Good morning.

Here. Come here.

Yes...

Player Suzuki. Player Kaido.

I know this is sudden, but we're sending

you two rookies to Tokyo this July.

What?

Really?

In other words, you're being recognized.

Well, that might be true...

I even refused the job offer from

the major company to stay in Shizuoka. But now...

Out of the 42 new employees, only two were chosen right?

That's amazing.

Yeah...



I know it's long.

I might be able to come back in 2 years.

I'm taking the car, so

I can easily come back to Shizuoka whenever.

Thank you.

But I won't be selfish like that.

It's fine to be selfish.

We might even be able meet more often than we do now.

Really?

Yeah.

Okay.

Come back without letting Tokyo change you.

Got it.

July 1

I left Mayu behind and headed to Tokyo.

At that time, I thought I could do anything for Mayu.

「East Sumida Dormitory」

Disgusting.

Is Tokyo's water this nasty?

Oh!

Yo.

Settled in now?

I'm getting there.

Oh?

Is this you in high school?

How smart of you!

Stop looking at my stuff.

My bad.

Naruoka speaking.

Hello.

Ah, Takkun?

Sorry, were you sleeping?

No, I was just about to. Are you in Tokyo?

Yes. I just wanted to check in.

Sorry.

My room phone hasn't been connected yet,

so I'm calling you from a payphone.

Oh, I see.

It's your birthday tomorrow, right?

I'll drive back to Shizuoka tomorrow evening.

Really?

You're coming?

Of course I am.

July 2

Su-san, wake up! Let's go to Ginza!

What's wrong with you, Kaido?

Let's eat breakfast together and go to Ginza.

Yeah.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Bon-chan, from Hiroshima. Same department as me.

He wants to tag along too.

Fine by me.

Wow, it's the Marion!

What, what?

Sushi?

Come on, we ate that yesterday.

How about shabu-shabu?

This is amazing.

This really is Tokyo.

Yeah.

Sorry. I don't have time, so let's split up here.

Huh?
What?

That one?

Wow, it's so pretty!

I know this is sudden, but...

Here. Your present.

Is this...?

Open it.

This month we got separated, with me living in Tokyo

but I'll always be thinking of you.

Those feelings are inside there.

Takkun... You remembered what I said back then.

Of course.

Even though our relationship became a long distance one,

for Mayu and I, the distance between Tokyo and Shizuoka doesn't matter.

I can easily hop in the car to visit Mayu.

July 6

It's true that it's tough working in the unfamiliar Tokyo.

But I'll balance my work and love life.

As long as I'm diligent, everything will be fine.

「Gift Department」

「2nd Development Division」

Oh... Suzuki-san?

So this is Tokyo, huh...

Am I mistaken?

Ah... No.

I'm from Shizuoka branch's gift department.

As I thought. I'm Ishimaru.

Your seat is over there.

Ah... Thank you.

I'm a new employee too.

I just started here.

Really?

Nice to meet you, fellow newcomer.

Same to you.

I'm Suzuki from Shizuoka. Nice to meet you all.

Okay, applause.

Ishimaru-kun!

I was hired by headquarters. Nice to meet you all.

Okay, applause!

Using the product card sent by the manufacturer,

write down the product information on the ledger.

This is very important work for you newcomers.

Now then, are the two of you ready to work?

Sure thing!

Okay, get writing!

「Keitoku Shoji Ltd.」

Su-san!

What is it now?

Stop scaring me.

Go to the cafeteria yet? It's super crowded.

I see.

I just feel tired today.

I didn't eat anything today.

That's no good, you have to eat something.

I just have no appetite.

I wonder if it's because Tokyo's water is so nasty?

Excuse me.

Oh! Sorry.

Hey, move it.

I'm sorry.

Go back already.

Fine. I'll come back after work's over.

July 10

One more beer please!

Here I go!

Good! You're doing good.

I'm sorry. I need to go to the toilet.

Murakami-kun, are you okay?

Chief, that's too much.

Wait a minute, Suzuki-kun.

I can't pour you a drink.

Huh? Oh...

Right.

Good!

I knew you could do it.

A big welcome to you.

Oh!

Ishimaru-chan!

What's this? This isn't a urine test.

I can't pour you a drink.

My apologies.

Chief.

That's enough, right?

Let's not do this.

What?

Let everyone drink at their own pace.

What did you say?

Oh! Suzuki-kun!

I can't pour you any!

Of course not.

You just poured me a glass.

What?

Are you refusing a drink from me? Hey!

Suzuki-san!

Don't worry, I'll handle this.

Wow, Ishimaru-chan!

I knew you could do it!

A big welcome to you.

Ah... President!

Suzuki-san.

Are you okay?

I'm fine, but what about you?

Totally fine.

I can actually hold my liquor pretty well.

Oh, I didn't know.

But I don't really like this atmosphere.

Still, it can't be helped as long as I work for the company.

You're quite the mature person.

It's all about patience.

July 11

It looks good on you.

Let me try the other one.

It looks very good on you!

Which one should I go with?

Mama! Mama!

He's so hot!

He is!

This one is good too...

Still not done?

Hey hey, which one is better?

That one.

It looks very good on you.

This one? But it's a bit expensive.

I'll buy it for you.

Really?

Thank you very much.

Thank you, Takkun!

Yay, yay!

Thank you for today!

Huh? Did you lose weight again?

I want to return to Shizuoka as soon as possible.

Return and live with you.

Takkun, what's wrong?

Takkun!

Takkun!

Oh, you're awake?

Huh?

How long was I out for?

It's almost 7, so around 5 hours?

That long?

Sorry.

No, don't worry about it. You were tired after all.

Maybe so...

What are you making?

Cabbage roll from the Naruoka family.

Sorry. I know you don't make it often,

but I have no appetite so I'll pass.

What?

July 13

Ya. Ma. Ka. Wa.

Ki.



A.

Wow.

I took a college seminar on it.

At this rate you won't finish until tomorrow morning.

Do you want help?

Really?

Su-san!

Wait, overtime with Ishimaru-san?

Sorry, go on ahead without me.

Goodbye, Ishimaru-san.

Good work today.

Okishima Industrial.



Stainless steel pot.



Kawashima Steel.



Kitchenware, stainless steel pot.

White.

Finally, it's over.

We did it!

Thank you, you really saved me.

It was nothing.

It's already 9.

How about going for a light meal?

Hmm?

I often visited this area as a student

with other circle members.

I see.

You went to Keio, right? What circle were you a part of?

Theater circle.

Huh, that actually exists?

There's a lot out there.

Oh...

So you were an actress?

Well... More or less?

That's amazing. Were you the main protagonist?

Well... More or less?

Oh...

But I can kind of see why.

What?

Didn't you have a lot of fans?

No, nothing like that.

Look! It's Halley's Comet!

Uh...

That's a line I really like.

Oh...! I see.

You finally laughed.

What?

You just seemed tired lately,

so I thought taking a breather would be best for you.

Thank you.

Ishimaru-san, you really are mature.

You think so?

You're dependable too. You really saved me today.

No, that's not true.

Takkun?

I called you many times earlier.

Oh, sorry.

I had to do overtime.

Hmm...

I see.

What's up?

I bought a new swimsuit.

A high leg one.

High leg?

Yeah...

So let's go to the beach next.

It was fun last year too.

Let's go this Saturday.

Yeah.

Su-san. Sorry, I have a small favor to ask.

What? Kaido-san?

July 14

You know, the guy that comes here pretty often.

How about the three of us hang out?

So you're saying you don't like being alone with me?

What?

That's not what I meant.

How about this? I'll bring my juniors from college.

How about grabbing a drink with 5 or 6 people?

Hmm.

The Big Dipper Theater was held up Miyako-san. It's a sign.

July 15

Stop it, Madoka-chan.

The Big Dipper?

The circle has a theater name.

We have a show this weekend, please come if you can.

Come on Jun-chan, did you come here just to advertise?

Why else would I come when the show is about to open?

"Einstein's Story"?

It's about how human relationships intertwine

with the theory of relativity and gravity.

That's basically physics, right?

You've studied science, so doesn't that interest you?

You majored in physics.

Well, I did.

Let's go together. Okay?

Of course I'll go.

Because it's Miyako-chan's juniors' play.

Thank you very much.

Su-san, let's go.

What?

Hmm.

Saturday, huh.

Are you busy that day?

Huh? Ah... No.

Sorry.

July 16

I can't come this weekend.

I'm really sorry.

Let's go next to the beach next week.

The ocean will probably be warmer then too.

Yeah.

That's true.

Okay.

July 18

「Big Dipper Theater Summer Performance」

Did you understand it?

What?

Well...

Somewhat, since I've studied physics.

I couldn't understand a damn thing.

Why did Einstein become a zombie at the end?

Yeah, I don't really get that either.

Wow, that was awesome.

What?

Are you serious?

It was awesome.

I couldn't understand a damn thing.

Thank you very much!

It was awesome!

Really?

Yes, especially when

photons first appeared, that wing really...

Ah!

It's Einstein!

It's Tendo-san.

Who's he?

He's the theater director and also Miyako's ex-boyfriend.

What?!

After that, the timing wasn't quite right

so I ended up meeting Mayu 3 weeks later on Saturday.

August 8

Takkun!

Come on now.

Hey, that's dangerous.

Huh? Did you get sunburned?

A little bit.

I went to the beach with my friends.

What?

Because I couldn't go with you.

But I didn't wear my new swimsuit.

It's reserved for your eyes only, Takkun.

Oh...!

Wear it tomorrow.

Perhaps because of all the driving,

August 9

I was very tired the next day.

It's no good, we're not moving at all.

Let's just give up.

I'm sorry.

It can't be helped.

I'll make a U-turn.

OK, next song!

A masterpiece written by Southern All Stars' Keisuke Kuwata.

"Give up on Summer", by Naoko Ken. Ride on!

Hey.

I've been meaning to tell you something for a long time.

Hmm?

Listen... That thing...

It hasn't come yet.

It?

My period.

What?!

Wait, how long?

When was the last time?

June.

It didn't come last month.

So I thought I was only one month late.

I was worried, thinking I might be pregnant.

Even though I kept waiting it never came.

It'll be okay.

What will be okay?

How should I know?! It's too sudden.

Sorry.

If...

If you're really pregnant.

Let's get married.

You don't want to?!

Because.

A shotgun wedding is...

Kind of...

Then what do you want to do?!

Wh-What else can we do?

Shut up.

I'm sure it's okay, we don't know for sure yet.

But...

I felt so uneasy and anxious trying to deal this by myself.

I understand.

Thank you, for having the courage to tell me this.

Yeah.

It'll be okay.

Sorry, sorry!

Even though I had no basis in saying so,

the only thing I could say was "It'll be okay".

August 10

Afterwards, I only stayed in contact with Mayu with phone calls.

Although summer vacation started

that meant nothing to new product development division I worked in.

Remember my juniors from the circle?

Bon-chan seems to be getting along very well with them.

Really?

Yeah.

I think he's gotten addicted to theater.

Oh, now that you mention it, he does go see it occasionally.

I knew it!

Ah.

Oh yeah.

Suzuki-kun, did you give Kaido-kun my number?

Number?

No, I didn't.

Did he call you?

Yeah earlier, even though I didn't give him my number.

What about your juniors?

No, they wouldn't do something like that.

You sure?

Yes, because...

Because that time, right before we started drinking.

Yeah.

I told them I don't like Kaido,

so I asked them to help me.

Ah...

I see.

I also told them to keep their hands off Suzuki,

since I have a crush on him.

Ahh... I see.

What?

What was that just now?

What about it?

Did you confess to me?

Yeah, I did.

Wow...

Without any hesitation!

I didn't feel like I could say it any other way!

Ah... No.

I'm sorry.

Sorry for saying something strange.

What?

I'll leave first.

Wait.

Sorry.

I feel bad, but I really can't

go out with you.

It's alright.

Don't worry about it, I understand.

I'm sorry.

I said don't apologize.

Let's get along normally after this.

Yeah.

Check please, I had the creamy crab croquette.

Naruoka speaking.

It's me. Did anything change?

Oh... Nothing in particular.

I see.

And you, Takkun?

Well.

After that, Ishimaru acted like nothing happened.

We sometimes ate lunch together too,

but we talked about normal stuff

and never talked about love.

I went to visit Mayu,

but I became concerned about money.

So I stopped using the expressway.

It became difficult to ask Mayu if there were any changes.

The time we spent together became very uneasy.

On my way home,

I ended up thinking about Ishimaru-san.

For Tokyo people, shampooing in the morning is really essential.

A morning shampoo, evening shampoo, and afternoon shampoo too.

I make sure to shampoo myself.

TN: A play on the word shan [シャン], which means shampoo here. Doesn't really work in English.

It's funny, right?

Su-san, Su-san. How was it?

Su-san?

Afternoon shampoo...

By the way, Kaido.

Hmm?

So you called Ishimaru-san.

You entered this room without asking, didn't you?

No...

You looked at my contact list, right?

Because...

Because?

Because what?

What kind of sh*t excuse is that for breaking into my room?

Sorry.

How would you feel if I

went into your room and looked through all your things?

You would be pissed, right?

Now now, calm down.

You're unbelievable.

I said I'm sorry.

What?

You think apologizing makes everything okay?!

Let go of me.

Don't go overboard guys!

Ishimaru-san hates you.

She says you're a nuisance.

You need to watch what you say!

What?!

Get out!

August 23

「Furusho OB/GYN Clinic」

What they'd say?



What should I do?

Let's go home for now.

Want anything to drink?

What is this?

Huh?

Do you know how much I had to sacrifice just to visit you?!

Because I don't use the expressway, I have to drive 5 to 6 hours!

Yet you buy expensive books like these.

I won't buy them anymore. I'll borrow them from the library.

Don't get so angry.

I'm going home.

I...

What should I do?

It hasn't come yet.



I...

What should I do?

That was close!

I'm sorry!

Naruoka speaking.

It's me.

Yeah.

I'm sorry for running away.

I won't run away again.

I've decided.

Let's get an abortion.

August 30

Mayu and I, from that day on...

carried the same sin.

September 4

Hashimoto really creeps me out.

Who is he, again?

A guy in the sales department. And he keeps calling me too.

Calling?

Well...

Men just find you irresistible, Ishimaru-san.

That doesn't make me happy at all.

That reminds me, you talked to Kaido for me.

What?

More or less.

Thank you.

I don't need Hashimoto-san or Kaido-kun.

Why do men I have no interest in keep bugging me.

And I never get any calls from the person I actually like.

Hey, just earlier...

You said men just find me irresistible, right?

Suzuki-kun, what about you?

You're a man too, right?

Do you find me irresistible too?

Well... That's...

That's true, but...

I have some circumstances.

It's because you have a girlfriend.

Yeah.

I knew it.

What kind of girl is she?

An ordinary girl.

She's childish compared to you.

You're prettier than her.

But she's important to you.

I'm not so sure.

Let's say, for example,

that you and I were going out.

If I dumped you for another girl, how would you feel?

I know that you're not an irresponsible person.

But what if you're just going out with her

out of a sense of responsibility?

I feel sorry for her if that's the case.

My ex-boyfriend told me this.

You were my initiation.

Initiation?

What's that mean?

It's a rite of passage.

A ritual for children to become adults.

Everyone's first love is like that.

At that time,

you believe that this person is absolutely the only one for you.

But later you realize that there is no such thing as absolutes.

Once you've realized that, you've become an adult.

And the relationship that helps you realize that is

called initiation love.

If your relationship with her is an initiation love,

then I think I still have a chance with you.

At that time,

it felt like her words were trying to pull me towards her.

I'm glad we talked today.

Yeah.

I see.

What? Are you drunk?

Hmm? I wonder.

What's up?

What?

We're off tomorrow, so it's fine right?

Are you making fun of me?

Of course not.

Don't make me more ashamed than I already am. Let's go!

With this, Miyako and I became involved.

Miyako, you know a lot.

I like Sada-chan the best.

Yeah...

Sada-chan is a great cook

and it's cute how easily he loses his nerve.

My visits to Mayu gradually changed to every other week.

I spent my weekends in Tokyo with Miyako.

Miyako said she didn't mind being the other woman.

But before I knew it, I didn't know who I loved more.

Peace!

Yeah.. Peace peace.

Miyako, be careful with the Cola.

October 24

What?

There's a cup holder right there.

I'm not a child.

I know.

Are you free next weekend?

Hmm... What should I do?

Go visit your girlfriend.

This delicate situation came to an abrupt end

October 31

at the end of October.

We don't have much beer left.

Should I go buy it?

Really?

Yeah.

Oh yeah, what about snacks?

Hey.

Miyako.

Takkun.

Who's that?

You're joking, right?

It's not true, right?

You never even visited me once!

Do you know how much time...

How much time I spent visiting you over and over?!

That's why I said not to force yourself!

Huh? What did you say?!

Stop it!

Stop being violent!

Are you saying that this is my fault?!

What?! Hey!

Don't hit me...

Two months ago, on that day...

It ended.

Our relationship.

Goodbye.

It was the worst possible ending

to a relationship that lasted a year and a half.

November 4

After that Miyako and I officially started going out.

November 5

And my memories of Mayu faded with each passing day.

Hey, hey. Next month on Christmas Eve.

How about spending it with my family?

What?

Why are you talking about that here?

My parents have been nagging me about it.

I need to give an answer soon.

Well, I guess that's okay.

Really?

Oh, I made a hotel reservation in Shizuoka for Christmas Eve.

What? Why...?

Oh...

For your ex-girlfriend.

I have to cancel.

You're too close.

Too close.

December 18

Cheers to Bon-chan's bright future!

Cheers!

I never thought you would quit your job and pursue theater.

Yeah.

Watching that performance really had an impact on me!

I'll act out Einstein's role!

Wow, cool!
Let's see it!

Why? Why does your theory involve relativity?

Su-san.

Hmm?

Are the two of you going out?

Unfortunate? It's an unknown road!

To advance forward, or to not!

Yeah.

Come on, why didn't you just say so?

Sorry. I found it hard to bring up.

So it is periodic!

I don't think of her that way anymore.

That's Halley's Comet!

How about the one in Shizuoka?

Oh...

I settled things with her.

It encompasses it!

I see.

I am the next Einstein!

I need to call Miyako.

Naruoka speaking.

Hello?

Takkun?

December 24

So you were reassigned to Tokyo from

Shizuoka's Keitoku Shoji?

Ah, yes.

So were you born in Shizuoka too?

No, I'm from Fukui.

He came to Shizuoka for college, and got a job there right after.

What did you major in college?

Physics. Specifically, fluid mechanics.

That sounds difficult.

He seems like a splendid person, honey.

That's impressive.

No, it's nothing.

Thank you.

Have a seat.

Yeah...

Here you go.

Hey, stop it.

Sorry.

Miyako.

Hmm?

Are we going to get married?

Where'd that come from?

Who knows? Nobody knows what will happen in the future.

By the way,

did you see the last episode of "The Autumn Story of 7 Men and Women"?

Takkun...

You remembered what I said back then.

Hello?

Takkun?

The climax where Sanma and Otake Shinobu fought.

I thought that part was great.

What's wrong?

Did something happen?

No.

Don't lie. Tell me.

Actually...

Mayuko.

I accidentally called my ex-girlfriend recently.

And then she said...

Takkun.

Hello? Takkun?

Like nothing changed.

It's been so long since I last called her,

but she answered like she was expecting me.

But you properly broke up with her.

Well... Yeah.

Sorry.

No, that time...

I left pretty abruptly,

so she might not understand that I broke up with her.

That can't be, how many months has it been?

Yeah, I know.

But it's been bothering me.

Because...

Since I didn't tell her,

she might still think the hotel date is on.

Maybe...

She's waiting for me at the hotel.

So that's why you were so out of it.

Sorry.

Huh?

Wait.

Your total is ¥4000.

Yes, ¥4000.

Your change is ¥6000─

Thank you!

But Suzuki-kun

left pretty abruptly.

Yeah, I think something came up.

Papa, calling him Suzuki-kun seems kind of distant.

What's his full name?

Tatsuya.

Tatsuya, huh.

Yes.

His name is Suzuki Tatsuya-kun.

What are you doing, Takkun!

Sorry, I got a little too excited.

You're so silly.

Are you okay?

Mayu?

Takkun...?

Takkun?

December 24, 1987

July 10, 1987

April 25, 1986

Cheers!

It's happy hour!

Let's start with physics major Suzuki!

Nice to meet you all, I'm Suzuki Tatsuya.

And on the opposite is...?

Naruoka Mayuko.

Mayuko-chan!

Cute.

And opposite of her!

This is going to take a while.

What?

August 2, 1986

Can I call you Takkun?

Takkun?

Einstein said that

light goes straight when there's no gravity.

November 14, 1986

But if there's gravity,

it causes the light to bend.

The sun is many times Earth's...

February 4, 1987

These are Air Jordans!

I've never given a present to a guy before.

So I didn't know what to give.

What are you saying? I'm very happy.

By the way, my birthday is July 2nd.

Hmm?

And my birthstone is ruby.

Like I care!

April 1, 1987

I'm Suzuki Tatsuya. Nice to meet you all.

Oh! Suzuki-kun!

I know this is sudden, but we're sending

June 19, 1987

you two rookies to Tokyo this July.

Come back without letting Tokyo change you.

July 1, 1987

Is this you in high school?

How smart of you!

Stop looking at my stuff.

July 2, 1987

You remembered what I said back then.

Of course.

July 10, 1987

Cheers!

Did you get it from your boyfriend?

It was my birthday last week so I bought it for myself.

Excuse me!

I'm Suzuki Yuki.

Um... I'm in the school of mathematical sciences and my hobby is reading.

July 11, 1987

Which one is better?

That one.

August 2, 1987

Sorry for the wait...

What?

Don't forget that number. It's my phone number after all.

Sure.

August 8, 1987

Huh? Did you get sunburned?

A little bit.

August 9, 1987

It hasn't come yet.

What?!

It'll be okay.

Sorry, sorry!

Hello.

H-Hello, Mayuko-san please.

August 14, 1987

So, Takku...

Do you know what a tuck is?

Bye bye.

Yeah.

Bye bye.

August 16, 1987

August 21, 1987

I also brought this.

Oh. They're not paperbacks.

Yu... ki.

How about Takkun then?

August 23, 1987



What is this?

Do you know how much I had sacrifice just to visit you?!

August 26, 1987

I can't make it this Friday.

Huh? What's wrong?

I don't feel so good right now.

Are you okay?

August 30, 1987

September 4, 1987

This beer is delicious! Maybe it's because I finally feel better now.

I was constipated.

C-Constipated?!

September 15, 1987

Come.

Come to my place.

I'm glad you were my first.

October 31, 1987

Stop it!

Don't hit me...

November 4, 1987

November 14, 1987

Eating dinner at a hotel on Christmas Eve

and then staying there overnight would be the best!

I made a reservation for December 24th, under the name Suzuki.

Can I cancel that reservation?

Thank you very much.

This is Shizuoka Terminal City Hotel's front desk.

You're completely booked for Christmas Eve right?

Another customer canceled just now.

What, it's open? Then can I make a reservation?

December 18, 1987

Hello? Takkun?

Suzuki speaking.

Hello Takkun? Did you call me?

Mayu-chan? No, I didn't.

December 24, 1987

You're not wearing your ring today?

Ahh, that...

Actually, it went somewhere.

I've never given a present to a guy before.

So I didn't know what to give.

I have to become a better man for Mayu-chan.

Yay!

What are you doing, Takkun!

Sorry, I got a little too excited.

You're so silly.

Are you okay?

Mayu?

Takkun...?

Takkun?

Why are you here, Takkun?



[Cassette Tape]

An analog recording medium that used magnetic tape.
'My Best' songs were recorded on there. Weak to moisture.

[Black Telephone]

A considerable amount of time was needed for the dial
to return to original position after entering a number.
There is no '*' or '#' key on this phone.

[Boot Shaped Mug]

It became popular after appearing the in drama
"The Summer Story of 7 Men and Women".
Drinking from it in the wrong orientation might lead to spills.

[Sauvage]

A simple hairstyle where a blow dryer is not needed.
At the time, there was quite a bit hair volume.

[Arale-chan Glasses]

Arale's Boston glasses from the manga "Dr. Slump".
In recent years, it has seen a revival among young people.

[Pull-tops]

Became cheap weddings rings for people with no money.
[Friend of Director Tsutsumi]

[Shizunami Beach]

The main beach of Shizuoka. During beach season,
many food shacks pop up. Various food items can be enjoyed.
※Movie beach scenes were actually filmed in Nagahama Beach, Atami.

[DC Brands]

Stands for Designers & Characters. DC Brand salespeople
popularly became known as house mannequins.

[New Arrangement Step Regent]

With one side cut a different length from the other,
it gives off a unique impression.

A 50cc scooter with a sporty design.
It proved to be a very big hit.

Abbreviation of the Coconut Boys. With their colorful hair
and unique style of the lead vocalist singing while playing
drums, they became a hot topic.

[Mira Cuore]

This car body style was mainstream in the 1980s
because of the tax savings. The Mira Cuore was cheap
compared to other light cars, so it became very popular.

[Rubber Band Blinds]

An item that was made during the era that Director Tsutsumi
lived in an apartment. Once you fall into the habit of making
them, it's hard to stop.

[Christmas Eve]

It was very popular then to spend Christmas Eve in a
luxury hotel. Making a reservation for a city hotel is
a battle that started six months before.

[Air Jordan]

Nike's Michael Jordan shoes. A smash hit, it became a
social phenomenon and very difficult to obtain.

[Starlet]

Affectionately nicknamed 'Kattobi Starlet', it was
popular with younger generation as an affordable car.

[Phone Card]

For long distance calls, the sudden plunge in the
frequency of calls was frightening. It was given
as a present or a novelty item.

[High Leg Swimsuit]

It has the benefit of making a girl's leg look longer. However,
the drawback was that the girl had to make sure she was well
groomed in certain areas. They first appeared in 86' and
became fashionable almost instantly.

[Ruby Ring]

Became popular because of the early
'80s song, "Ruby Ring".