How is it lately?
How's what?
- Are you doing well at your job? - Of course, I'm doing fine at work...
...If I weren't, we wouldn't have come to this hot spring.
Then why are you having fun here with us at a hot spring?
What?
Isn't it strange that a man at your age is here at a hot spring with his parents?
We're already here, do you still have to complain?
After I got my hard-earned bonus, I thought I could treat all of us out here.
At a hot spring, you're supposed to go with a girlfriend, isn't it?
Be quiet.
If you don't have a girlfriend, I'll ask around for you.
I'm fine, there's no need.
- So, do you have one? - Can you please?
- Well, do you? - I told you I'm fine.
I still think you don't.
By the way, I'm wondering about you.
- About what? - About why you chose mom.
- Why're you asking? - So I would know.
Why did you choose mom... She's way out of your league, isn't she?
Look, despite my looks there were a lot of women I could choose from.
- There you go again, being pretentious. - Hey, I'm telling you...
...Your mom was the one who first fell in love with me.
That's an absolute lie!
Did you make us come to this hot spring...
...just so you could enjoy listening to your parents' love story? Idiot!
Mmm, delicious.
The warm springs were also good. Thank you, Seiji.
Well, compared to the ones I took you before...
...this isn't much of a big deal. - Honestly, why can't you just...
...say you're pleased?
Hey, gimme more beer.
Okay.
Mom, are you enjoying your choir group?
Yes.
It can be interesting at the start...
...but if it's becoming more of a burden...
...you don't have to force yourself to continue with it.
I'm enjoying it.
Alright.
Here are some souvenirs gifts from Seiji-san.~
What are they? What what...?
Hot spring manju!* [steamed cakes]
- Itadakimasu. - We're digging in.
- Seiji, was it relaxing? - Yes.
I bet your parents were pleased.
Yes, but well, you know it's the usual thing with my dad.
Buying a house for your mother, then bringing her to a hot spring...
...Seiji sure is an awesome son.
Since Seiji-san had already bought a house...
...when he gets married you both already have somewhere to live, right?
- Huh? - But to live with one's parents, for me that's unbearable.
- Oh, I'm sorry. - It's okay.
Have you ever thought of living with someone?
Actually, I haven't even thought of marriage at all.
Huh? Why not?
Well you see, I'm still on my first year of becoming a full-time employee...
Also my mom's depression is getting better but...
...I don't know if she'll be completely healed.
But what's happening between you and Chiba-san?
- Oh, that's right. - No, no...
...more importantly, how are you and Teppei getting along?
Well, everything's going smoothly, I guess.
Today's Special Offer is tofu croquette.
Ever since Teppei-kun came here, our customers have increased.
True! I wish he could be my son-in-law.
I told you many times that it's impossible. For me...
...Akari-chan is the only girl for me.
Enough about us please...
We want to know about you and Chiba-san.
- Oh well... - So how is it...
...having a Tokyo-Wakayama long distance relationship? - Yeah.
It's the usual thing.
- Going smoothly, eh? - Yeah.
Well, somehow, you managed to pull it off for a year...
...after this, there's one more year of separation. - Ah?
Oh, no... I wouldn't be able to stand it!
If it were me, I would want that person to be always close to me...
- Okay, okay already... - Sorry!
- "Yes?" - Oh, uh, it's me, it's me.
I'm sorry, I'm with some people from the company.
Oh, sorry, sorry.
So, this might take some time, but I'll call you later.
- Chiba! - Yes.
It's ok, it's ok. Uh, look...
...you don't have to...
...I'll just call you next time.
"Sorry, kay? Bye."
Yeah, bye...
- Grandpa! - Hey, Tomoya.
Hey, there's a man outside...
...it seems he's trying to take a look inside here.
- Huh? - Is it a salesperson?
We don't need anything from him so I'll just tell him to buzz off.
Hello.
Hey.
What's Dad doing? Is he buying something from him?
Seriously... what's he up to now?
Come in.
That's my son, Seiji...
My daughter, Ayako...
...and that's Ayako's son, Tomoya.
He's the elder brother of your mom, Asaoka Hisashi-san.
- Oh... y-you mean our uncle? - Yes.
Hello.
Please sit.
Sorry for disturbing.
Can I ask where Sumiko is?
She's at her choir practice.
Choir?
Yes.
How long has she been going there?
She has been there for quite some time now.
I see.
Is there something about the choir?
No.
What can I do for you?
Well, there's something I wish to say to Sumiko.
Though I could have called her on the phone.
But since our mother died 32 years ago and my dad 25 years ago...
Sumiko has always been leaving offerings to our parents' graves every death anniversary and Bon Festival (honoring the dead).
But for the past year, I noticed she didn't do such a thing.
It's maybe because her health wasn't all that well last year.
Was it bad before?
Well, now she has considerably started to get better.
She's not healed yet? What's wrong with her?
Is it a serious illness?
- Uh, no. - What is it?
It's depression.
Depression?
Why did this happen to her?
You mean, she wasn't happy?
If she's happy, she wouldn't get this kind of illness, right?
We knew it... Sumiko...
...would have a hard time if she married you.
That thing with dad and that uncle of ours.
It seems something was up, huh?
Yeah, there's something not right, isn't it?
Like what he said, "We knew Sumiko..."
"....would have a hard time if she married you."
Yeah, I wonder about that, too.
You think maybe they were opposed...
...to dad and mom's marriage? - What? But as far as I know...
...elopement isn't something that Dad would do.
- But Dad and Mom didn't have a formal wedding ceremony. - Is that so?
Yeah, ever since I was little...
...I've never seen a wedding photo of theirs nor heard them talk about it.
- I see. - Yeah.
Ah, I remember before...
I asked, "Why haven't I met..."
"...any of Mom's relatives?" I was told...
...that grandma died when I was a baby.
Grandpa died when I was small...
Since then, we didn't talk about...
...why we don't get to meet her relatives but then...
...there might be another reason as to why.
If there was a rift, it sure sounds like dad...
...was the cause, right?
Yeah.
I'm home.
- Welcome back. - Welcome back.
- Grandma! - Oh, hello, Tomoya.
I bought something for you. Here you go.
Oh, did we have a visitor?
Um, yes.
Who was it?
Dad.
Yeah?
Your Onii-san (elder brother) came awhile ago.
It was Hisashi-san.
He came here?
Yeah.
Why did he come here?
Since nobody has been living in your parents' house...
...he has decided to have it demolished next month.
You may still have some of your things left in that place...
...What do you wish to do about it?
What should I do?
You may want to clean it up.
What should you tell him?
I'll tell him that it's fine with me to dispose it all.
I've already left that home 30 years ago.
There's nothing there that I would need now.
Alright then.
I don't want him to bother coming over here again.
I wrote your brother's phone number over there.
Tomoya, would you like to eat sukiyaki for dinner?
- Yes! - Alright.
['Chiba Manami']
Yep.
"What're you doing?"
Hmm? Nothing much.
Really~. Anything happening there?
"Hmm? Not really."
I see. I've got something to tell you.
"I'll be going to Tokyo next month."
I see.
- That's all you're gonna say? - "Uh, no..."
Anyway, during the time I'll be in Tokyo...
I won't be able to take it easy with you...
...because I'll only be there for a week.
I see.
C'mon, just admit you're glad to hear it.
Oh... yeah.
Say, what did you eat today?
Hmm? Which one, breakfast? Lunch...dinner?
Anyone would wish to be with a loved one...
...would wish to be with that person even for a slightly longer time...
...would wish to smile with them as much as possible.
♪~Kimi tte kimi tte, naitari shinai n da ne~♪ *Don't you, don't you ever shed a tear*
♪~Omoidashite goran yo~♪ *Try to remember that*
♪~Watashi wa, watashi wa bukiyou dakedo ima wa~♪ *I maybe... I maybe... a little bit clumsy*
~FREETER, IE WO KAU SP~ "A Part-Timer Buys a House - Special Edition" ♪~Subete wo uketometai kara~♪ *But I'll accept you entirely*
~FREETER, IE WO KAU SP~ "A Part-Timer Buys a House - Special Edition" ♪~Koko ni iru yo~♪ *I'll always be here for you*
Translation and fine timing: earthcolors
Raw provider and retiming: furransu
So after a long time, you'll be meeting...
...with Chiba Manami-san tomorrow, huh?
But maybe...
..I might just be imagining it but...
...Take-san...
...could it be you and Chiba Manami-san haven't held hands yet?
- What? - Oh, sorry... there's no way, right?
Yeah, no way.
So it is. Sorry, please forget it.
Well, how about you Kitayama-san?
...how's your match-making?
What is it with marriages, anyway?
Huh?
I was into match-making just so I could get married.
Now, I don't know why we have to get married.
In any case, we can take it easy, right? Being bachelors.
When living with someone, you have to be mindful of each other...
Once or twice a year, you have to bear with the company of your wife's relatives...
At the most, it's only once or twice a year that you have to suffer, I guess.
Have you and Chiba Manami-san thought of getting married?
No, we haven't.
Well, it makes sense since you haven't even held each other's hands yet.
- Yeah... uh, I mean no. - Lucky guess, eh?
Well, since she left for Wakayama a year ago...
...we haven't met yet except for maybe twice.
Well, then, as they say, third time's the charm.
By the way, Mom... I won't be home for dinner tonight.
- Alright. - I'm off now.
Take care, be careful.
Yeah.
Have you done it?
Have you called your brother already?
Not yet.
If you won't call him, he might think....
...that I didn't pass his message to you about your house's demolition.
- Okay. - I'm going now.
Take care.
Seiji.
Hey.
You really knew I was here, didn't you?
Eh?
Where do you want to eat?
- How's your mom? - Oh, recently...
...she had started something new.
She has been participating in a choir group.
Really? I see.
Oh, another thing.
- Hmm? - Meanwhile...
...my mom has this brother, so it means he's my uncle...
... I just met him for the first time. - First time?
Yeah, well, it's making me wonder what's up with that.
What do you mean?
I'm sensing that something happened in the past between my Dad and that uncle.
That maybe... Dad..
... had eloped with Mom? Something like that.
- Elopement? - Well, yeah, just a thought.
Uh, how about over there...
...You're probably busy with your work.
- Yeah, I'm doing my best. - Yeah.
Uh, listen.
- Yeah? - Over there, do you...
...get to work with your seniors?
Yeah, I do.
I see.
- What? - You've got nothing to worry about.
I- I'm not, okay?
It's alright, you don't have to worry about it.
I told you I'm not.
- Ah~... the food was great, wasn't it? - Yeah.
- You're free tomorrow night, right? - Yes.
The guys at Oetsu...
...are excited to see you again.
Me, too.
- What do you wanna do now? - What do you like to do?
You still have time...?
- Yeah, it's okay. - Alright.
- Sorry, just a sec. - Sure, no prob.
Yes?
"It's me."
Mom? What is it?
Nothing... Can't I call you for no reason?
"Don't call me if you have nothing to do."
I'm just wondering how you're doing.
Actually, I'm in Tokyo now.
"Is that so? Then why didn't you call me?"
Eh? Don't tell me you're leaving right away?
"I'll be here for a week."
Oh, so where are you staying?
"At the company dormitory."
You can stay here at home.
Your husband is there, right? You know I can't stand him.
"Anyway, he's not here."
"Right now, it's just me."
But he's still coming home, right?
"No, he's not."
Is he staying somewhere else?
- "We've split up." - What?
We've gotten a divorce.
When?
A month ago.
"Well, I'll be waiting for you. See you."
Is there something wrong?
My parents divorced like a month ago.
What?
That's what I thought, too.
You didn't know about it?
- It's okay, it's really nothing. - But...
If my mother wants to remarry, she remarries. If she wants a divorce, then she gets a divorce.
So, uh, okay then... since you haven't been to Tokyo for a long time...
...how about meeting with her tonight?
Fine... let's go.
- Eh? - You're coming with me.
Huh? Hey, w-wait.
- Oh, Manami. - Um, I'm here with my boyfriend.
What?
Take Seiji-san.
Uh, good evening.
Oh dear, I wish you told me you'd be bringing someone along.
Sorry for the mess.
I just had a little drink.
But I'm not drunk at all.
You ARE drunk.
C'mon it's okay. Oh, sit down please.
Alright, here, sit sit.
So tell me... how did you two meet?
Mom, be gentle.
- Where? - Eh? Uh...
Chiba-san was the foreman at the company when I started working as a part-timer...
'Chiba-san.' Just call her what you usually call her, okay?
Oh.
C'mon, what do you call her?
Mom.
I know, 'Manami,' right?
Uh, no, 'Chiba-chan' is fine with me.
That's not so romantic, is it?
But anyway, thank you for dating her.
I don't have to worry anymore if she'll ever get a boyfriend.
But should a woman be doing such work as a foreman?
But being a foreman...
...I think women are more suitable for the job.
...in a sense, she's more aware of small details...
...well, her sense of communication is also important...
...And also, Chiba-chan plans to design structures...
..so she wanted to know more about it...
...and wants to enter into such a field...
...that's exactly why she's doing her best at the design department.
That makes me mad.
- Pardon? - This is the first time I've met a man...
...who knows Manami better than me, thus, making me feel ashamed.
Ah, no no... that's not my intention at all.
I'm just messing with you... You're so cute!
- Oh. - Mom.
Are you two getting married?
Stop it, Mom.
It's the first time you ever brought a man here.
I just didn't want to come here alone.
C'mon, tell me, don't be embarrassed.
I'm not getting married.
Now that's something we both didn't know, right?
I'm not getting married to anyone.
Eh... why not?
I think I'll get depressed with all the disadvantages that come along with it... Seiji, let's go.
- What? - Let's go.
Aren't you staying over? Hey.
Sorry for the bother. If you'll excuse us.
- Thanks, okay? You did well. - Uh, no...
...But you're not going back?
- Yeah. - But...
My family is different from yours.
Like how different?
It's better if we're not together.
Better if we're apart.
I'm home.
Welcome back.
You still haven't called uncle yet?
- Not yet. - I see.
Yes.
"Is this Sumiko?"
- Yes. - "Have you heard about it?"
Yes.
"Are you okay with it?"
Yes.
Seiichi-san told me about it.
"I haven't heard from you for a long time."
I'm sorry.
"So what do you wish to do?"
Whatever I have that's still in that house...
...it's okay to dispose of it.
"I see."
So, goodnight then.
- Good morning. - Good morning.
- So how was yesterday? - Eh?
You and Chiba-chan had a date, didn't you?
- Yeah. - Been so long...
...it's sure is exciting to see her again, right?
Maybe once Chiba-san is done with her training, you could get married once she gets back.
- What's wrong? - Hmm?
- Well, she says she doesn't want to get married. - Oh, you proposed already?
No, I didn't... you see, actually...
She said she didn't want to be married to anyone.
Oh, if she said it like that, I'm sure that must have been quite a shock for you.
It's okay... since I haven't really thought much about marriage anyway.
But now that I've been told something like that, it has made me start to think about it, I guess.
Cheers~!
Ah~... good.
Well, Chiba, seems you haven't forgotten us...
...I'm glad. - What're you saying?
Seems everyone is in good spirits.
We're good good. They're in good spirits even if I'm not there anymore.
I heard that you're quite popular in your food store?
I'm popular with the part-timer aunties...
...and also with the customer aunties.
Oh, by the way, I've something to tell you.
I've just been to our main office...
...they've invited me to work with them..
...so now I'm a full-time employee! - Wow~!
- Congrats! - Congratulations.
Is that so.
Uh, Shokucho, are you-
I'm so relieved to hear this.
You said construction work was the only job you can do...
...then, you got injured on-site and can no longer work in the field.
You were afraid because you thought you had an uncertain future...
...but see, your hard work has paid off.
What are you saying... Akari-chan already scolded me about that before.
- That's right. - Well, even so...
...I'm happy with your announcement.
Another thing... I still have one more announcement.
Akari-chan and I... are getting married.
- Eh~! - Hey, congrats!
- Thank you. - Thank you.
- Is that so. - A-Are you ok, Shokucho?
Akari was just straight out from high school when she came to work with me.
Even if she was in a tiny company full of mostly men...
...Akari helped soften the atmosphere of the workplace.
And now, finally, she's getting married.
I may be getting married but it doesn't mean I'm quitting the company.
No but...
The idea of you getting married is still making me feel sad.
Uh, Shokucho, you've been kinda weepy lately?
He's getting old.
Shuddup.
Tell me when the ceremony will be held.
Let me help out with the preparations.
Like you can be the 'go-between,' eh?
Yeah, like giving a speech, things like that.
Sorry, we won't be having a formal ceremony.
Since we still haven't enough savings yet,
...we're just going to have a civil wedding.
I see.
What's wrong?
Actually, they might be opposed to it...
My parents haven't acknowledged yet our plans to marry.
Even if I become a full-time employee...
I'm still unsure whether they're okay with me...
...now that I'm gonna be part of the office staff.
...This getting married thing sure is absurd, isn't it?
Anyway, once, I've asked them to meet with Teppei-san...
..they said they absolutely don't want to meet with him.
- I see. - Eventually...
...they'll understand and things will be alright, won't it?
Anyway, even so...
...our decision to get married will not change.
...Right? - Yes.
Oh, Chiba-san, I'll go ahead and marry first, okay?
Be my guest.
Chiba-san, would you choose marriage over work?
Nope, I don't think I could do that.
Really? That's why Seiji-san reacted with a shock.
After you said you didn't want to marry anyone.
Oh, no no, it was nothing really.
Chiba, you'd be such a darn waste if you don't marry...
Please, I don't care who you the guy is... you MUST absolutely become a bride.
- Is that so? - No doubt about it.
Thanks, I guess.
Ah~... that was so much fun.
- Everyone hasn't changed much, huh? - Yeah.
Uh, listen...
Hmm?
What Akari-chan said...
...it wasn't true.
- What's not true? - Uh, you know...
Ah~... that thing about me not wanting to marry anyone...
...and that you reacted with shock?
Yeah, I mean well... to be honest, I don't know...
...if I want to get married since I haven't thought about it yet.
Really?
What is it?
- It's a kitten. - What?
Seems it had been abandoned.
So cute.
I told you about my mom's remarriage.
What?
That I really hated it, right?
Even if my father has died, I wanted her to be the only wife for him.
I trusted her.
But my mother's life is her life so I tried really hard...
...to just accept it.
Still, they ended up divorced.
What's there in a marriage anyway...
Why does everyone believe in marriages?
Oh, sorry...
Anyhow, I shouldn't be saying such things.
It's okay.
Seiji, it's really great to see you again.
You have a call.
Yeah, uh... sorry.
- Hello. - How did it go?
Did you finally have any progress with Chiba Manami-san?
Could you please leave me alone?
What? So cold-hearted, you should be thankful there's someone who's worried about you.
If you'd only left me alone, I could have had my chance, right?
What? What was that?
Uh, it must be sooo noisy over there.
What? No, I can hear you perfectly well over here.
Bye.
Wai-
Hello...hello?
- Is everything ok? - Yeah, it was nothing.
Uh...what will you do with the kitten?
You can't bring it with you at your place?
But animals are banned from my room in Wakayama.
So you brought it here but who will take care of it?
So you're saying you want me to throw it away?
Eh? Am I the villain here?
But you're the one who freely went ahead and brought it here... Am I right?
Eh? Uh... no...yes.
Can't you really take it in?
Yes, I don't think I can take care of it.
How about you, Seiji-kun?
Uh, um... my dad won't want it either.
Since I can't take care of it...
...you should find someone else to come and get it.
...Poor lil creature, aren't you? - Okay, before I leave for Wakayama...
...I'll look for someone to adopt it but it stays here for the meantime.
Fine, as long as you stay here to take care of it.
- I know that. - Alright then...
I gotta get your bed ready...
Really, she does things on a whim.
Okay, I'll be going now.
- Sorry, okay? - It's alright.
- Bye. - See ya.
- A cat? - A kitten, actually...
...it's really cute.
No.
Wai-... But I'll be the one to take care of it.
No.
Just have a look at it first.
I will not allow a cat in this house.
Why do you have to decide?
I'm the one paying the mortgage for this house.
Well, I'm the one who paid for the downpayment.
I told you, I'll pay it all back to you someday.
In any case, cats are not allowed here.
- Wai- - I'm off.
Take care.
Why so against it?
What about you, Mom, you don't like it?
Oh, I don't mind it.
Really, you're okay with cats?
I did have a pet cat once.
Really? When?
At my parent's home... before I got married.
Oh, I see.
- A cat, eh? - Yeah.
So would there be anyone who's willing to adopt it?
Well, at my house...
...I've already got my hands full with my 5 kids...
...I don't think I can spend more on cat food. - I see what you mean.
I'm worried it might die if I take it in, thinking about it...
...is already too painful for me. - I see.
It'll depend on my wife if she'll have it...
...but it doesn't seem likely. - Is that so?
Unfortunately, for me, I have a dog at home.
- Oh, really? - Yeah.
Teppei and I have just started living together...
...we still have to enjoy the place first to ourselves.
I understand.
Well, if you can't find anyone to adopt it...
...then you can bring it here so all of us can watch over it.
Sorry. Thank you so much.
Uh, by the way...
Teppei-san and my parents will get to meet later on today.
Eh? Your dad wishes to to see him now?
Uh, not really...
My dad still says no so I'm going to bring Teppei-san to him.
- I bet your dad will be taken aback. - I feel for him.
That's true. In fact, when my daughter...
...brought home her boyfriend, I was already speechless...
...what more if she says she'll marry him?
Manami.
Yamaga-san!
How did you do in Wakayama?
It was difficult at first but it became very fulfilling.
I see. Tonight, we'll be having...
...a meeting regarding a bridge construction in Son Tay, Vietnam... you wanna sit in with us?
I would appreciate it very much.
The plan is to build a bridge...
...to connect the north-south highway in Vietnam...
...over Red River that's flowing through the center of Hanoi.
After studying the local design conditions...
...we want to look into a few number of ports for cable-stayed bridges...
...due to the rapid flow of the waters at the construction site at Red River.
Also, a major challenge we foresee are the measures against winds...
Records show that wind speed could reach 55 mph at most during the typhoon season....
Yeah? What is it?
- "Hey, what should I do?" - Huh?
- "It's not looking so good." - The cat?
It looks weak. What should I do?
"Since when?"
Hmm? 1 hour ago? Is it 2? Oh, I don't know.
Okay, do you know any vet clinic?
Of course I don't know any.
Can you try and look for one?
"No... just hurry and come back soon."
I still have to be here at work.
If you'll excuse me, I'll go right ahead.
- Good job! - Oh, so you both are going now.
- Yes. - Good luck.
- Do your best.
- Hello? - "Um, Seiji?"
"I have a favor to ask."
Huh?
Thank goodness Seiji-kun is here.
I don't know much about cats...
...but my mom had kept one before so I'll ask her.
If not, I'll take it to a vet's clinic...
...and have it examined. - I'm so sorry.
I blame Manami for not taking care of this herself - so irresponsible.
- It's no problem. - That daughter of mine...
... she didn't eat the miso soup on purpose even if I went through the trouble of making it for her this morning.
I'm only putting up with the cat just because she asked me to.
But when the cat gets sick, she would come to rely on me.
But if I tell her I can't do it, she becomes upset.
Really, that girl only does what she wants.
You're certainly her mother, aren't you?
Apparently, she maybe...
...the type of person who says what's on her mind...
But she's actually mindful of the people around her...
Like she wouldn't point out in front of me, what a selfish person I am.
Well, sometimes, even I would want her...
...to point out things like that to me once in awhile.
Are you okay?
Yeah... let's go.
Ah~... just gimme a sec. ['Hoshino Sake Store']
Are you sure you're okay?
Let's go.
I'm back.
Welcome home.
Hello!
How do you do? I am Toyokawa Teppei.
I told you this before, right? That we want to get married.
Uh, Oto-san (Father)... I heard from Akari-chan, no I mean, Akari-san...
...that you're against our plan to get hitched, uh... I mean to marry.
So today, no matter what...
...I've prepared myself to come here...
...in order to declare my intention to marry Akari-san.
I will marry Akari-san. We WILL get married.
I will make sure that Akari-san will always be happy.
- How much is this? - 3,300 yen.
3,300 yen? ($43)
Yeah, it's exact. Thank you for your patronage!
I thought my heart would burst out from my chest!
I'm sorry about my dad... I really can't believe him... Sorry.
- Ah... what about your mom? - Huh?
I forgot to meet your mom!
Who was that?
A funny customer just came in... ...it was Akari's fella.
- I'm back. - Welcome home.
Welcome back.
- What is that? - What?
Seiji...
...who told you to raise this cat here? - No, it's not that.
Later, someone's gonna pick it up.
...I'm just keeping it for the meantime. - Who's gonna get it?
A friend. The cat's health had begun to deteriorate...
...but my friend can't leave the office yet so I took it in.
That friend of yours is totally annoying.
I'll get it.
- Wait, I'll give that person a piece of my mind. - What for?
- You just stay quiet. - No, wait.
- Let me handle it. - What do you mean?
- What're you doing? - You mean your friend... is a woman?
Yeah.
Good evening. I'm Seiji's father. Come in.
- Good evening, I'm Chiba. - Oh, come in.
Thanks for taking care of the cat.
Oh, it was no big deal.
Huh?
- Please, come in for awhile. - Uh, please don't bother.
You can have dinner with us. Right, Seiji?
Uh, yeah, if you'd like.
By all means, Chiba-san, please. Seiji, give her some slippers.
Sorry, is it really okay with you?
- Please. - Alright, allow me to disturb you.
Translation and fine timing: earthcolors
Raw provider and retiming: furransu
Sumiko, we have a guest. This is Chiba-san, the owner of the cat.
Good evening. Sorry for showing up so suddenly.
Good evening.
Thank you for taking care of the cat.
It was a little weak, but now it's much better.
Kijima Construction?
Yes.
Such a talented person...
Please be a good influence to Seiji.
What're you saying?
Actually, Seiji-san had been such a big help to me.
I hope we're not forcing you to compliment this son of ours.
Of course not.
Oh, please eat more.
Sumiko is good at cooking.
But when we were newly married...
...she didn't really yet know how, her cooking was awful then.
Please don't be shy, eat more.
Alright.
Uhm... may I ask how the two of you met?
- Eh? - Uh, you see...
...I just think you both have a good relationship.
Sorry... You can't say it?
C'mon, please tell me.
Where did you two meet?
- We met at work. - Oh, office romance?
Sumiko was from our sister company.
- How did you meet? - Not telling you.
Eh? C'mon, how?
I was working as a receptionist.
Eh? Mom, you were a receptionist?
I totally didn't know that.
I'm guessing you'd often see each other at the reception area....
And you'd occasionally talk outside work hours...
Then later on, you began dating, huh?
...Is that what happened, Oto-san? - No.
Say, Mom, what was it about Dad?
I'm sure there were a lot of other guys...
...who wanted to talk to you, right? - Not really.
Maybe they thought you were out of their reach...
...and were too shy to approach you, was that it?
That's already an old story. Here's more beer.
Yes, please.
Seiji, this isn't funny at all.
What the heck.
"Hey, you guys, have you done well?"
That one? Yeah.
- Here you go. - Yep.
- Sorry... - It's okay.
Oh... I'm sorry.
It's alright. Thank you.
- Are these recipes? - Yes.
When I married at the start,
I really didn't know how to cook anything... That notebook helped me somehow.
- Come with me for a sec. - Why?
- C'mon. - What now?
Quit grumbling and just come here.
Oof~.
Are you two seeing each other?
I don't wanna talk about that now.
So what is it, are you just friends?
It doesn't matter what we are.
When Oto-san first asked you out...
...how did he do it?
I don't know if I can say it.
Is it a secret between the two of you?
No, not really...
...it's just that he might scold me if I tell it.
I won't tell.
- Really? - Yes.
The fact is... I'm the one who asked him out.
Eh?
Although at that time he also wanted to ask me out...
But he always seemed to have trouble finding an opening.
And then?
So then...
I asked him, "Do you know any good wine shop?"
- What did he say? - He said, "I do."
But the truth was, he didn't...
...and he tried hard to look for one, he admitted later on.
Really?
But he only told me the directions.
- Eh? - So I said...
"If you don't mind, can we go together?"
So that's how you started dating.
Yes.
Um, can I ask one more thing?
What is it?
What was the reason why you decided to get married?
I'm sorry, was my question too weird?
I think I never need a reason for such a thing.
I just wanted to be with him.
Sorry for staying so long.
We enjoyed your company. Say, what have you named it?
Oh, I haven't decided it yet.
I guess the person who'll adopt it will get to name it.
You're right.
Uh, aren't you gonna change your mind about us raising the cat?
- I told you no. - Are you really sure?
You think you can pull a trick on me?
Just because Chiba-san is here, you think I'll be OK with it?
- No, that wasn't what... - Absolutely no cats!
I'm sorry that you have to see that.
By the way... what were you and Mom talking about?
Oh, that?... It's a secret.
- C'mon, what was it? - It's girls' talk.
- Your dad's a good guy. - You think so?
Yeah, although he's a bit clumsy, just like you.
What about you... pretending to be strong when you're sad...
...and so stubborn just like your mother, aren't you?
- We're not similar at all. - And neither are we.
You are so.
No, we're not. You're the ones who are both alike.
Fine let's settle it... Rock-Paper-Scissors!
- I won... You have to treat me to some ice cream. - Why should I... hey, wait.
Why is that?
What about?
As soon as I and my mom meet, it quickly turns into an argument.
But even if I know that something unpleasant will happen...
I still want to go home sometimes.
I wonder why.
It's because you've lived in that house for so long, right?
Maybe so.
Welcome home.~
I'm back.
- Is the cat alright? - Yeah, it's fine.
I have to hurry up in finding a new owner for it.
You know what.
What?
About my divorce...
'Scuse me a sec.
Yep yep yep...ring ring ring.
Yes? Uh, hi~... tomorrow?
Right now... my daughter's here.
Yeah, that's right. I'll invite you next time, okay?
Was that a man?
Even I can have a boyfriend, right?
Was he the reason you got a divorce?
How can you say such a thing?
You don't care who it is, as long as you have somebody by your side, don't you?
Same thing with Dad... just so because he just happened to be there for you?
I will never become like you!
I'm sorry.
Yoshi.
Wait for my reply first before you open my door.
- I need to talk to you. - I have something to say, too.
What's your relationship with Chiba-san?
There you go again.
- Is she your girlfriend? - Told you it's nothing.
But didn't she come from a much better university than yours?
So what?
Is her family background a good one?
What do you mean by 'good family background?'
Like are they rich...
...or have a high position in the company they work for?
Why do you have to ask?
What do her parents do?
Her father has passed away.
Her mother had remarried but now it seems they've split up.
I see.
Tell me, why do you want to know?
Such a beautiful and talented person...
...there could be a lot of other men better than you who could be with her...
I'm sure that's what her mom would think.
That's none of your concern.
But once you get married...
...it won't be just the two of you who'll have a problem with it...
...but it'll be the our problem as well. - Told you it's nothing...
... I haven't even thought about marriage yet.
Did that happen to you?
What?
Is that what mom's parents said to you?
That mom deserves someone more appropriate...
Is that why they opposed your marriage?
Still she married you...
...so it caused a rift between mom and her parents, didn't it?
Don't talk as if you understand everything.
So that's why... Mom is protecting your feelings.
- What do you mean? - I think Mom really wants...
...to go to her home before the demolition.
But since she's taking into account what you might be feeling, she has decided to bear with it.
How come you're not even aware of her own feelings?
- Shut up! - There you go shouting again.
- You instantly throw a fit once when you get into a tight spot. - You know nothing of it.
I never want to hear of this matter again.
- What is 5 x 1? - 5.
- Yes. 5 x 2? - 10.
So it's likely...
...that Mom's family was opposed to their marriage?
Yeah, I think mom is trying to hold it in...
...about not going back to her parents' home.
So if that's the case, you need to find out...
...why Mom is choosing to keep it in for the sake of dad's feelings.
But if Dad refuses to talk about it...
... then Mom's not willing to talk either.
"Do you have our uncle's phone number?"
Eh?
"When Uncle went there, he left his number, didn't he?"
Yeah. Are we gonna ask him?
There's no other way, is there? Give me his number.
I'll send it you later.
"Alright. Bye."
Yeah.
- Yes, well done. - Mom...
...Grandma says if I get a perfect score....
...she'll get me anything I wish for.
Really, is that so?
But even if she doesn't buy you things, you still have to try and get a perfect score.
So what is it? What do you want?
- An older brother. - What?
That's impossible now.
Yes, you can't have an older brother anymore.
However, it's still not impossible to have a younger brother or sister...
...right, Ayako-san. - Uh, no thanks, please.
What do you wish to talk about?
We wanted to ask you something.
Alright.
Why do you seem to dislike our dad?
That's a pretty straight-forward question.
But I'll tell you that... the thing between me and your father...
...is neither love nor hate.
We just didn't recognize him.
Why?
Because there was a man who was better suited for Sumiko.
He was a friend of mine, a graduate from Kobe University and works for Marutomo Co.
So it's because that person is better than my dad...
...since he's from a prestigious university and works for a leading company?
Not only that. Anyone would think...
...that this man would provide the best life for Sumiko.
The first time Seiichi-san came to our house...
...he drank plenty amounts of sake.
Although he did appear nervous...
...it still made us worry if Sumiko will truly be alright...
...if she marries him.
So it's because he drank?
Well, you're likely gonna make mistakes if you drink, isn't it?
Uh, well, certainly, my dad...
...is someone who has an attitude that is more likely misunderstood by others...
...and it's true that he does make mistakes when he drinks.
Then, he visited my parents once more...
..and it seems the relationship had broken off since then.
Having said that, I didn't expect Sumiko would join a choir group.
What do you mean by that?
I'm off to my choir practice.
Okay.
I think Mom really wants...
...to go to her home before the demolition.
But since she's taking into account what you might be feeling...
...she has decided to bear with it.
How come you're not even aware of her own feelings?
The other day, I drank too much...
['32 years ago'] ...I apologize for my rude behavior.
Today, I've come to talk with you again...
...regarding my intention to marry Sumiko.
I promise to always make Sumiko happy from hereon.
I don't want my daughter to have a difficult life.
You're too proud and stubborn...
...easily resented and misunderstood by others...
As a manager in your company, you're hard to get along with...
...your subordinates don't respect you...
Am I wrong?
What're you looking at?
Even the cat in this house is looking down on me?
Is mom with her choir group?
Yeah.
We want to talk to you.
- What about? - Just listen, okay.
What the heck do you two want now?
Are you gonna scold me about something?
Please do this favor.
Tell mom that she can go and get her things from her home.
- Why should I do that? - Aren't you regretting it?
That you caused mom to cut off ties with her family and home?
That's why we ask you to do this.
I didn't say she's not allowed to go.
Sumiko's the one who said she didn't want to go.
But she won't do it for your sake...
...you should be the one to understand her the most.
You're so stubborn.
- I understand her just fine. - Why do you have to be so pig-headed about it.
'Pig-headed...' For me, it's not about being stubborn.
It's a matter of pride.
Anyway, it's not for me...
...to tell her 'Go and get your things from your home.'
There should be a good reason.
- There's this story about Mom's mother. - The thing with our grandmother, right?
Yeah, Grandma used to be part of a choir group.
Eh?
Grandma died 30 years ago, right?
Yes.
30 years later, Mom has joined a choir.
Mom may be our mother but...
...she's also a daughter of grandma.
As a daughter, she's wanting to to recover memories of her mother
...for the past 50 years...
...don't you feel sad for her?
Also, their relationship suffered before her mother died.
...ties between mother and daughter...
...were cut off because she married you...
Aren't you responsible for it, too?
You know it, don't you?
Mom had never went back home since then.
Yes.
So please.
['Furusato' - classic folk song] ♪~ Chasing wild hare on the hill ~♪
♪~ Catching small fishes in the river ~♪
♪~ I still visit you in my dreams ~♪
♪~ Oh, my hometown, I shall not forget ~♪
- What's the matter? - Nothing... Let me.
Thanks.
Sumiko, you should go and clean up your home.
If not, your brother's wife might whine and say bad things about us...
...so you should go back and help her.
I ask you to take care of it.
Okay.
Dad... Mom told me about it.
Thanks.
What are you thanking me for?
About that thing with Sumiko's parents...
...I never felt the slightest regret...
But now I understand...
...what a parent feels like.
Because when Ayako got married at that time, I too, had hoped...
...that she won't have to endure a difficult life.
Good night.
- Here's the key to the house. - Thank you.
- Just put it in the mailbox when you're done. - Yes.
Ever since Sumiko left home...
...she has never set foot inside of it again.
Did Sumiko endure a lot by being married to your father?
Uh.. no.
Still, she suffered from depression, didn't she?
She was bullied by a neighbor.
We didn't notice it in time.
No way... what did Sumiko do that caused the bullying?
Uh, no... it wasn't Mom....
- Was it your father? - Uh, no...
- It was Seiichi-san, wasn't it? - Uhm...
Well, certainly he makes mistakes when he drinks too much...
He's too stubborn and proud...
Uh, he also...
...often gets angry with me.
But...
...the only man suitable for my mom...
...is Dad, I think.
What're you saying?
Why Mom chose Dad in the end...
...I really don't understand it at all.
No, I mean I understand it vaguely.
Sorry, if I'm not so clear...
My Dad thinks Mom's not so bad...
...and maybe Mom thinks Dad's not so bad either.
Even if the two of them...
...well, they don't talk a lot...
But perhaps...
...my Mom feels happiest and safest...
...when she's with him.
That is why...
I think the only man most suitable for my mom...
...is Dad.
Sorry... uh, let me borrow this.
If you'll excuse me.
Wow... so this is Mom's home.
- Here, Seiji. - Oh, 'kay.
Wow... it doesn't look bad, it's still intact.
Yeah. Oh, Mom...
....your things are mostly here.
So... I'm going now.
Take care.
Sumiko.
Here... Take this with you.
Mom.
Huh? Did you mark your height on this?
The black marks are Uncle's and Mom's are the red ones, right?
Yes.
See? Seiji, you and I used to do that before.
- We did? - You don't remember?
No, I only remember that...
...you kept bossying me around.
That's a common thing between elder sister and younger brother.
How about you, Mom?
How was Uncle like as an older brother?
He was a loving one.
I bet he was proud of his little sister, right?
That's why when Dad took you away...
...he was probably mad about it.
But after more than 30 years...
...what are you feeling now that you've come back to your home?
My home is the place where I live now.
- Yes? - "This is Asaoka."
Yes.
When you're finished cleaning up, I want to meet with you.
There's something I want to give to your dad.
Okay.
I've returned.
I want to thank you.
Where's Seiji?
He went to meet with someone.
Was it Chiba-san?
I didn't ask.
- I'm back. - Welcome home.
Dad, can we talk?
- What? - Just a sec.
- Why? - Just come on.
What is it?
Here.
Who's it from?
From Grandma.
What is this? ['For Take Seiichi-sama']
Many years ago...
...Grandma gave it to Uncle...
...she asked him to pass it to you but seems he didn't do it.
It's already too late, do I still have to read this?
Anyhow, she probably just wrote about me taking Sumiko away from them...
...and that I should give her back. - No, well...
...we don't know what's written inside...
...but whatever it is, does it still bother you?
The past is past, it doesn't matter to me.
But Mom... choose you over her parents.
No matter how many times it is said, it still bothers you?
Mom said it herself. That her only home is right here.
But if you don't want to read it, then don't...
If you want to throw it, then it's fine with me.
Sumiko, are you free this Sunday?
Yes.
How about you Seiji?
Sunday? Why're you asking all of a sudden?
We're going somewhere.
You should've said it before, I could've made some plans for myself.
Also, please tell Ayako, alright?
Uh, okay.
- Where are we going? - To the cemetery.
Didn't we just visit the graves sometime ago?
Who says we're going to visit the Take grave?
We're going visit the Asaoka grave.
You're going back to Wakayama this Sunday?
Yeah.
On that day, we're supposed to go visit a grave.
- I see. - Also after the grave-visit...
...well, we're planning on doing something.
- What're you planning? - Uh, well..
...my parents didn't have formal wedding pictures.
So we're having it on that day.
Oh, so we won't meet anymore?
Uh, no. If we can't be together on that day, I'm thinking...
...you could attend the wedding pictorial. - Huh? Will it be ok?
- Yeah. - Alright.
What about you? How's your mom?
Oh, it really sucks.
So you're going back to Wakayama.
- Yeah, got no choice. - Yeah.
- By the way. - Hmm?
When you were at your home, did you always stay in your room?
- Yeah. - I see.
- Why? - Well, uh...
I wonder how it was for your stepfather.
To have to live in the house that used to belong to his wife's previous husband.
It could have been unpleasant for anyone.
I don't think it was like that for him.
Well, my dad's already passed away...
It was better to live there since most of the house loan had already been paid.
But I don't think...
...that's the reason why your mom continues to live there.
She's doing it for you.
That house is full of memories of your late dad...
...she knows you'll always return back to it.
Uh, listen.
If you decide to marry again, you can go ahead and sell this house.
If I'm the reason why you refuse to sell it, I don't mind it at all.
It wasn't because of you.
It's because I want to live here.
Even if I remarry, I still miss him a lot...
Your dad didn't keep his promise.
He said we'll always be together... So why did he die on me?
What is this?
So you remarried just because you were so broken-hearted?
Yes.
So terrible...
Yes.
...Why did you do that?
- Let's start cleaning it. Water. - Here.
Give the flowers.
"Take Seiichi-sama..."
"Sumiko has informed me of your civil wedding."
"I feel I absolutely need to impart to you these words..."
"...before I write this letter..."
"My husband had been harsh to you..."
You're too stubborn and proud.
"My husband is extremely..."
"...proud and stubborn himself."
"That's why I don't blame you if you felt uneasy..."
"...since I do think he spoke unkindly to you."
"My husband is a kind of person..."
"...who doesn't apologize to anyone..."
"Although I do have to contend with my husband's awkward way of showing his love..."
"...it is something that we go through as a couple every day..."
"But choosing to be with my husband is something..."
"...I had never regretted."
"That's why I believe..."
"...if Sumiko is with you, she will always be very happy."
"So, Seiichi-san, please take care of my daughter."
Has everyone properly paid their respects?
Dad, Mom... this is our daughter, Ayako.
Our son, Seiji.
And our grandson, Tomoya.
Sumiko.
Are you alright?
Yes.
Today...
...I've come to inform Mom and Dad...
...That I am happy.
I see.
It seems you have also been blessed with good children.
Yes.
How've you been, Onii-san?
My wife and I are doing well...
...and our children have grown up and went their own ways.
I'm happy for you.
What's the matter?
It has been a long time since we've talked...
...it feels strange.
You're right.
See you... Onii-san.
Yes.
If you'll excuse us.
Seiichi-san.
Yes.
Please take care of Sumiko.
- Seiji. - Hmm?
- Speaking of which. - What?
- You can bring home the cat. - Really?
- Huh? What cat? - On one condition...
...you be the ones to take care of it. - Yes.
- So... What will we call it? - 'Tama' ('Ball'). - Whoa, that was fast...
...You've already named it since the start, haven't you, Mom? - Hey, hey, what 'cat'?
- I'll tell you later. - I wanna have a lil brother or sister...
...so they can call me 'Onii-san,' too.
Uh, what?
So then, go and ask Santa-san for it this Christmas.
Don't give him unnecessary ideas.
So glad he found a new owner.
Yeah. So then, I'm going now.
Say hello to Seiji-kun for me.
I will.
Be careful, okay?
- Bye. - Yep.
- By the way. - Hmm?
Next time I'm back in Tokyo, I'll be staying here.
- Huh? - Bye.
Why do I have to dress up like this?
It looks good on you.
At my age, why do I have to wear this... I look silly, like a criminal...
...who's gonna be publicly humiliated. - Relax, stop being so restless.
- I AM calm. - No, you're not.
Hello.
Oh, hello.
That's my sister. This is Chiba Manami-san.
- Hello. - Hi.
Is she Uncle's girlfriend?
Hmm?
- That's right. - Eh? Why?
What do you mean 'why?'
No way, how is it possible?
What do you mean 'No way?'
- Have you held hands? - Huh?
- Prove it. - You lil rascal...
...don't mess with me. - Sorry for waiting.
- Hmm? Eh? - Why are you so quiet...
...say something.
- Uh, it's nothing. - Are you folks ready?
Yes.
Hold on a sec.
Huh? What is it?
I didn't buy you an engagement ring before.
So I got one from my three months worth of salary.
- Like this? - Yes, look at the camera, sir.
Anyone would wish to be with a loved one...
Say 'cheese.'
...would wish to be with that person even for a slightly longer time...
Are you sure?
...would wish to smile with that person as much as possible.
Your mom looked really beautiful.
At first, dad said he hates...
...the idea of having to take wedding pictures...
But then, he surprised us all by buying her a ring...
Seems he ended up getting excited about it, too.
- It's so like him. - It's funny.
- Oh, that's right. - Hmm?
I've talked with my mom.
She said she got a divorce because she's still missing my dad.
Is that so.
Yeah.
Actually, it's not so bad, is it?
- What about? - Hmm? I mean...
...that marriage, after all, is the thing that creates a family?
Uh, no no...I'm not referring to us... not at all.
It's time for me to go.
Okay.
Why don't you take another bus trip at a later time?
I just want to spend a little more time with you.
...I mean... Even up to tomorrow.
And the day after that, too.
I mean...
...for always.
Me, too.
You have a call.
♪~Doro mamire no mainichi dakedo~♪ *Though life be smeared with mud*
♪~Ima sara nayandari wa shinai~♪ *Tis useless to worry about that now*
♪~Akireru hodo bukiyou dakedo~♪ *It maybe surprisingly awkward*
He's out? ♪~Akireru hodo bukiyou dakedo~♪ *It maybe surprisingly awkward*
He's out? ♪~Kokoro ni chikatta yume ga aru~♪ *Still a dream in my heart, a certain vow*
♪~Todokanai hoshi ga matataite~♪ *Unreachable stars are twinkling*
♪~Fureru you ni sotto toikaketa~♪ *Wishing to touch them*
♪~Yomigaeru kibou de kono mune ga itasarerutara~♪ *Softly I whisper, restore hope in my heart*
♪~Oikakeru dake~♪ *I'll just chase after them*
You should've never let Chiba-san leave.
- Be quiet. - If you miss this chance...
... you might not have another chance like this again.
Just leave it alone.
All in all, I think I'm kinda pleased with Chiba-san.
- Why're you so confident? - Anyway, you have to pay me back...
... the downpayment soon. You might...
...have some trouble with 'unplanned expenses'.
I said I'll buy it myself so quit your nit-picking.
You didn't say you'll return it.
I did say I'll return it back.
- No, you didn't. - Yes, I did!
If you said it, show me the evidence.
Why do I have to show you proof?
Go on, show me the evidence.
♪~Itsudatte mou ichido tachiagarou~♪ *No matter when, let's all rise once again*
♪~Chikara tsuyoku~♪ *Resiliently*
Translation and fine timing: earthcolors
Raw provider and retiming: furransu
Thanks for watching~!
['1 month later, at a partner company...']
- Huh? Hirata-san. - Oh~! ['1 month later, at a partner company...']
I've resigned from Kijima Construction, I'm now working in this field.
So what is this field...? [Note on box: "World Artistic Gymnastics Championship - Tokyo 2011"]
...Uh, sorry, I'm running a little late... [Note on box: "World Artistic Gymnastics Championship - Tokyo 2011"]
Sorry... ...yikes...
He's also starting anew, huh?