Muramata is the kind of superior everyone admires. But beneath that composed surface lies a secret. She is affectionate, easily moved to tears, and — most importantly — she is in a romantic relationship with Kajima. Oh, and there is one more detail: she has a split tongue.
The story takes a turn when Muramata departs on an overseas business trip. For two people who see each other every single day, even one day apart feels unbearable. As the days stretch on, they begin to imagine a future together. The word “marriage” drifts into their minds, quietly, then with more weight. They miss each other’s presence, each other’s warmth, the simple reassurance of fingers intertwined. When they finally reunite after a week, they realize something they perhaps already knew: they love each other, deeply.
But then comes the harder part. Muramata begins to question herself. She turns the idea of marriage over in his mind, considers it from every angle, and then — he sets it aside. Not because he does not care, but because she decides that what matters most right now is being with the person she loves. To lay everything bare, to hold each other close, to find joy in that shared happiness. That, she decides, is worth protecting.
