Chapter 3: Because They Love Each Other

...I see, so that's what happened.

Yeah... I think that my friend's mother really thought that searching for good universities was what was best for her...

And she really wants to live up to her mother's expectations.

But... Something keeps going wrong, so I just wonder...

They both truly care about each other, so why does it seem like nothing ever changes?

...Love is a complicated thing, isn't it?

What do you mean...?

It just came to mind while you were talking. I suppose you could say that they love each other so deeply that they're also deeply afraid...

They're scared because they love each other...?

...What are they scared of...?

Who can say...

Perhaps...they're afraid to lose a place they belong to.

Where they...belong...?

Even with people who have lived together all their lives, they think they will have to part ways someday.

For some, that happens when they become an adult--or maybe the separation is sudden and unexpected, like with your mother.

Oh...

The more you love that person, the more memories you two build together...

And so, it becomes harder to accept that separation.

It can feel like...the home you've built for yourself has been destroyed.

So, perhaps they're both scared of losing their home--the place they belong.

... ...

...Perhaps it's difficult to understand that feeling.

...Did something like this happen to you, grandma?

Well... ...You could say it did happen when I was younger.

Whether its your family, friends, or a someone you love dearly... I think everyone has things they're afraid of losing.

I see...

I can kind of understand that feeling...

...The feeling of being afraid of losing something, somewhere I belong...

When my mom passed away, and when my dad was hospitalized...I was scared...

I've been scared of losing Niigo, too.

Because they're special to you, aren't they, Kanade-chan?

Yes...

But...my friend doesn't need to leave her mother yet.

So...why are they still so scared...

... ...

...This girl sounds like she's very important to you, Kanade-chan.

Eh...?

...Well, she is. I want to help her somehow...

I see...

Well, if that's what you've decided to do, your grandma will always be here to support you.

Thanks...

But...

I hope someday you can live life for yourself, Kanade-chan.

A life of your own, where you aren't bound to anyone else.

As long as you're smiling and happy, that's the most important thing to me.

Okay.