She was seriously in love, but she never made demands.

I don't know, it's stupid being 20," she said. "I'm just not ready. It feels weird. Like somebody's pushing me from behind.

I'd like to have a good long talk with you once you've calmed down. Please call me soon. Happy Birthday.

Nights without work I spent with whisky and books.

My words did not seem to reach her. Or, if they did, she was unable to grasp their meaning.

Then, all but instinctively, I took her in my arms. Pressed against me, her whole body trembling, she continued to cry without a sound.

I don't deserve a girl like Hatsumi," Nagasawa once said to me. I had to agree with him.

I just want you to keep one thing in mind: Anything of yours--anything at all, as long as it belongs to you--I will accept as my own. That is one thing you will never have to worry about.

People leave traces of themselves where they feel most comfortable, most worthwhile.