Original subtitles

Ken-chan! Go wake up your father and sister!

Okay!

Wake up! Everybody, wake up!

How long do they think they can sleep?!

Papa, come on, help me out! I have to leave early today!

What on earth are you doing?!

Never mind. I'll wipe it up.

I'm awake now.

Look at the time!

Reiko. How have you been?

Wait! I'll go with you.

I've been so busy. Sorry I haven't been able to e-mail you.

It's been three months since I started working full-time.

It seems like I'm working 48 hours a day, I'm so busy.

Yuko! You're leaving early today!

Good morning!

- I'm off! - Bye!

Please look after the kids until their swimming class.

And I've left their lunches on the table.

You don't have to fix their lunches.

No, I really should.

I'm leaving!

- Okay! Well, I'm off. - Bye!

I'll put the garbage out.

Eh?!

Good morning!

Unlike the days when I was working part-time,

I feel my responsibilities keenly.

After spending 10 years at home as a housewife,

the air out in the world is so fresh.

Mrs. Konishi, please write down your summer break schedule.

- Yes, I understand. - Please.

- Yuko-san! - Yes!

And most importantly, I'm so happy

to have people need me and to gain a good reputation.

- Please. - Yes.

I have you to thank for finding me this job.

Thank you so much.

I'm Konishi.

Last year at this time, I'd never have dreamt I'd be working.

But if you have the courage to take the first step,

perhaps it's not that difficult to change your life...

Like Sakiko, who went off to Boston...

And even in Mayumi's home...

So, your, wife ran a beauty shop to support you as an actor?

Well, sort of.

"Sort of"! It was exactly that way!

So, without her help, you'd never be where you are now...?

Well, it's not quite that romantic...

Look at him, getting all embarrassed...!

Ah!

His collar! His collar is sticking out!!

So, you and your wife are going to New York to see the plays?

True. We never really had a honeymoon and this is in gratitude to her.

So, last question. To you, Oyabu Joji,

what is the most important thing in your life?

The important thing in my life...?

He's going to say you!

No, he won't! No way!

The stage...

Sure enough!

So what's wrong with that?

Mayumi wanted him to say,

"My wife, who has supported me so long."

I ran into her at the market and she gave me an earful.

So that's what she wanted to hear.

Papa is so slow.

Right!

Sometimes you can't say things like that,

even when you think them. Men are like that, right, Kenta?

Yep! Men are like that.

Kids! Just because it's summer break

doesn't mean you can stay up all night.

And you left your lunch today. Were you eating cookies all day?

Well, Grandma...

You know better than that! And you left the living room a mess!

Ken-chan, let's go to bed.

- Okay. - Good night.

Good night!

Papa, don't forget your cell phone again tomorrow!

I know.

That was delicious.

I thought I was all finished cleaning up.

I'll wash up.

No, I'll do it.

I ate it, so I'll wash it.

No, it's okay.

I'll do it!

- Okay, thank you. - Right.

And the last question:

what is the most important thing in your life?

No doubt, it's the wife who has supported me so long...

Is that what you wanted me to say?

Well, not really...

Look at how you're washing those! Move! I'll do it.

Hey... Yuko...?

What?

Maybe you're a little tired these days...?

Huh?

What is it?! What are you so mad about?

I'm not mad.

When you say that, you're mad.

Is it about "that"?

Yes, it's about "that"!

I knew I was being unfair to you, but this is business!

I guess that's all I am to you!

Don't sulk!

I'm not sulking.

But, boy! That remark sure boosted my reputation!

I never thought it'd lead to an additional performance!

We suddenly heard today that Osaka really wants it.

We go into rehearsal tomorrow and the show's next week.

I know we were going to New York, but we can do that anytime.

But, boy, is this soon! Did my agency call today?

Hey... What did you just say?

I said we have an additional performance.

After that.

That Osaka really wants it.

After that.

That rehearsals start tomorrow and the show's next week.

Then what about New York?!

Well, we can't go.

How could you! How can this be?!

It's his job. He can't help it.

That just shows how big a star he's become.

That's true, but the bigger a star he is, the lonelier I am.

He's only gotten three days off this year!

He's always off on a performance, and we can't even talk any more.

Listen, Mayumi. I'm at work now.

This time, too!

I finally made him take this week off!

Mayumi, I've gotta hang up now. I'll call you later.

What is it?

I'm sorry! I forgot to tell you the real reason I called!

Huh? The real reason?

I wondered if you'd go to New York with me!

I can't go! Your departure date is two days away!

That's why I'm in trouble. Please! I have no one to go with!

It's a charter ticket, so I can't get my money back!

How about Keiko?

She's in Okinawa with a friend.

Then Ben-chan?

That's not such a good idea.

Then go alone!

I've never been overseas. And I don't speak English.

You'd do fine.

No, I wouldn't! Please, Yuko! You speak good English.

How about Sakiko's place? Boston is only an hour from New York.

Is it really?!

Yes!

It's a little early, but... It's okay, isn't it?

Hello?

Hello, Sakiko? Were you asleep?

Sorry! This is Mayumi!

Mayumi? What a surprise! How have you been?!

Fine, fine! How about you?

Fine.

Are you and Mr. Sawamura still getting along?

Thanks for asking. We're very happy together.

She's giggling.

Yuko's here with me,

and the two of us are going to come visit you, if it's okay?

Really?! Come! Come!

She says to come.

Hold it! I haven't said I'd go!

Oh, come on!

It's impossible! I've got various responsibilities.

It'll be all right!

No, it won't!

I have a husband and kids! I can't leave them to go overseas!

Hello?

Don't worry! I'll make it okay with them!

Hello? Are you there? Hello!

- It's impossible!

- I'm a wife and a mother and I have a job!

That's Mayumi for you! I never thought Papa would say okay!

You've been working so hard! It's okay once in a while!

You need a rest! Even your husband said so.

It was embarrassing to ask for time off from work,

although they had told me I could have a vacation this year.

You know, I think this is the first time I've come to Narita.

I haven't forgotten anything, have I?

So long as I have my passport and my ticket...

Huh? What?

What's wrong?

Oh no! Where did I put them?!

What?

I know I had my passport and ticket!

Did you lose them?

The bathroom!

The bathroom?

- The bus! - The bus?

Ah! The airport limousine!

- It can't be!

Yuko, wait here! Oh, dear!

Is she gonna be all right?

Hello, Kenta? It's me, Mama.

We got here all right.

You've arrived already?!

At Narita!

Let me speak to Papa.

Hello? Boy, America is closer than I thought!

Isn't it!

Listen, a few things I'm concerned about:

You always forget to put the chain on the front door,

so be sure to lock up properly tonight.

I know that.

And the air conditioner in the kids' room?

They get cold, so be sure to turn it off.

I know all that! Don't worry, and have a good time!

You don't get a chance like this every day.

Okay.

So, we'll be leaving then...

I'll leave it to you.

Yes, see you.

Yuko! Sorry! I found them!

I forgot I put them in here!

What's wrong?

Nothing.

We have to hurry.

Look at how late! Let's go!

Where could our seats be?

Yuko-san.

Yuko-san!

What do I write here?

Here.

Where it says "sex"?

They want to know if you're male or female.

Eh?

Write female. F - E - M - A - L - E.

I get it. Wow, that was a surprise.

Yuko! Look up there!

It's Itchan!

Oh, you're right.

- Excuse me... - Yes?

Would you like to change seats?

Sorry.

Ladies and gentlemen. We are passing through an area of turbulence.

Please return to your seats and make sure your seatbelt is securely fastened.

Thank you.

If I asked to be let off, would they let me off?

I don't think so. It's an airplane.

How high are we flying, do you think?

Who knows... Hundreds of meters... or thousands of meters.

Hey!

I'm sorry! I'm afraid of heights!

Can we stay like this a little longer?

- This way? - Yes, that way.

Ah! Yuko-san!

Sakiko-san!!!

It's been so long!

You look even younger than before!

I don't think so!

I didn't even recognize you!

What great flatterers you are! I'm so glad you're here!

Let's go!

Wheres Mr. Sawamura?

Sorry, he had something come up suddenly.

He was really looking forward to seeing you.

That's too bad.

How is he?

He's very well.

You look like you're very happy.

Well...

Oh, dear! Look at you!

Isn't it hard work, studying for an MBA?

Yes, but he's going to stick with it till he earns it.

How long will that be?

Two years. In the meantime, I have a part-time job.

You do?!

Yes! In a Japanese restaurant.

But I took today off, so I can show you around anywhere you want!

I'm so envious.

Why?

That you can support the man you love.

Ichiro is doing very well now, right?

It's astonishing. He's even in all the newspapers.

Well, that's true...

Excuse me.

If it seems the express way has too much traffic,

- please take main street instead. - Okay!

Well, beautiful ladies.

Would you mind if I asked you how old you are?

- I'm 36. - 43.

No way! I thought you were all in High School.

Thank you!

What did he say?

He thought we were high school girls.

Eh?!

Oh, Heavens! Don't be silly, Mr. Taxi Driver!

Listen, can we go see your home?

Sure, but you might be very surprised.

Why?

It's such a palace.

Good grief! You live in such a fancy place?

See? I bet you were surprised.

No, it's a nice place.

Yes, it's got that great "classic" look.

You don't have to do that.

By the way, what are your plans for dinner?

Theres a great place down on the Waterfront. Wanna go?

Is that where you and he go for dates?

No way! We've only been there once. Right after we arrived.

Shall we go for a walk?

And when I woke up, they were holding hands like lovers!

I told you that's not how it was.

Both he and I are afraid of heights!

- So... it's "he," is it?

And you spent a long-time talking happily together, didn't you?

Did you try to pick him up?

No, I didn't. Yuko was asleep the whole time...

Eh! Don't tell me you were listening?!

Maybe...Maybe not. But I didn't want to interrupt anything.

And?

So, Daisuke... I mean, this man, seemed awfully familiar to me.

so I asked him if I had I met him someplace before.

Sounds like a pick-up line to me.

No! I really did think that!

Anyway, who cares what we talked about?

We were just sitting next to each other on the airplane!

I'll never see the man again!

Oh, dear...

Hello!

Eh?!

He's pretty cute!

You think so?

Is he here on business?

No, on a trip. The guy with him was probably his school chum.

He lives here. He came to see him on his summer break.

- You certainly know all about it! - Right!

- Oh! He's looking at Mayumi! - You're right!

Here he comes!

Oh, no! What'll I do?

Excuse me.

Yes?

Would you care to join us?

- Yes!! We'd love to! Right? - Sure!

This is my senior from school, working here at SBJ Solutions.

His name is Sakuraba.

Hello, I'm Sakuraba.

Hello.

Ms. Aida Mayumi-san. She runs a beauty shop in Tokyo named...Um, what?

Salon de Lutin.

Right! It means, "a place where fairies come."

Eh? Is that so?

- I didn't know that. - That's right.

You didn't?

- My name is Kurihara Daisuke.

Hello.

These are my two friends, Ms. Konishi Yuko and Ms. Horikawa..

It's still Horikawa.

Horikawa Sakiko.

Hello.

Ms. Konishi is a real businesswoman.

Originally she was with a trading firm,

but recently she started a "net shop" company.

She's really quite an accomplished woman.

She's so wrapped up in work, she has no time for men,

so Mayumi dragged her along on this trip.

We're all single, just like you three.

- I hear you have some terrific guy. - Eh?!

A love like in those Harlequin Romance books.

You threw everything away to come chasing after him.

Oh, dear! You told him all that?!

So what? At least this happens to be the truth.

Eh?

Isn't this wine delicious?!

Harlequin Romances don't always end happily...

You two knew each other from school?

Right. He was my junior on the Rugby team.

Rugby?

Were you a tough team?

We were pretty good. What would you say?

No big deal.

Probably not. Considering how you were quivering on the plane.

Oh, gimme a break! Let's just say that never happened!

Let's drink up and have fun now that we've met you.

Let's have another toast!

The beautiful air, the delicious food,

do not hold a candle to the loveliness of you three!

- Just kidding! - Just kidding...

Cheers!

Cheers!

I'm here at Shaft restaurant with Yuko and Mayumi.

Couldn't you drop by for a minute...? Hello?

I haven't seen scenery like this for a long time!

Mayumi-san! Look, there's a seagull!

I bet you don't have any problems.

Eh?

How nice! To be so cheerful and have no worries!

So laid back! I want to be like that!

You're no one to talk.

Well, how rude!

May I have your business card?

Eh?

Perhaps I can be of some professional assistance someday.

You know, Mayumi was saying all that...

Actually...

- Huh? This is very close to my Head Office.

Really?

This is at the Nishi Shinbashi Intersection, right?

Yes, it is!

I thought so! My company is at Shinbashi.

Really?

That really takes me back.

- It looks like he can't make it. - I see.

Are you sure we haven't met before?

I don't think so.

It just doesn't feel like were meeting for the first time.

Maybe we met in a previous life?

What a line!

You're the one who brought it up.

Oh. You're right.

- Hello? Hiroshi? - Look, your man is drunk again.

He's passed out.

He's like that every night. You'd better take him home.

Hiroshi! Come on and come home.

Wait! Don't walk so fast! Hiroshi...!

Shut up! Just leave me alone!

What?

Did you really give up on college?

How can you do that without telling me?

Hiroshi...

Drop it! Quit nagging me!

We were way too naive!

Trying to live here with no money, no work...

And getting an MBA isn't that easy!

But you worked so hard up till now! We can do it together!

I can work more hours...

How long are you going to keep this dream up?

Why don't you go back to Japan?

You haven't gotten a divorce yet.

Go back to Japan and be a housewife again. That's the best.

Tell Papa that we arrived safely.

Souvenirs? Yeah, I know: A Red Socks Mascot doll.

I know.

I'll be sure to bring one home.

Tell Grandma I said hello. Bye now.

Everything going okay?

They're getting along fine.

Are you sure you don't have to call Ichiro?

No. He wouldn't even be home.

And when Itchan is in a play, that's all he thinks about.

But you're really something: Telling them I was single!

You look it! They believed it!

Get real! And I don't like lying.

Sorry. It was only this once.

But isn't it strange...

What?

You can't tell anything from a person's exterior.

If you say I'm a career woman, that's what I look like.

If you say I'm single, that's what I look like.

Oh, and about Sakiko...

- It seems to me... - Eh?!

What have you done now?

- Look at this!

JAPANS BEST, RUGBY PLAYER, KURIHAHA DAISUKE.

CAREER THREATENED!

If you want to continue on with rugby,

you will have to go through another operation.

But unfortunately, there's only a slight chance

you will be able to play like you used to.

Ultimately, it's your decision.

So she went to the hospital?!

She said she wanted to apologize to him.

Is this going to be all right?

Eh?

Well, they seemed quite attracted to each other.

No, Mayumi is pretty level-headed that way.

True. I guess you're right.. Not like me.

Yuko? How long... does love last?

When you first meet, all you see are the person's good points,

and it's enough for you just to be together. But with time...

Sakiko, did something happen between you and Mr. Sawamura?

Why?

I sense something.

No, theres nothing...just...

We had a fight last night, over a really trivial thing.

For me, he's like my first love,

so when something happens, I just don't know what to do.

It's embarrassing at my age.

That's not true. Last Christmas when you went after him,

I thought you were really terrific.

I knew I could never go after someone like that.

Go after him, all this long way away...

You know, I once felt like you did.

But I didn't act on it like you did.

I said it! Don't tell anyone, okay?

See?

I haven't shown that to very many people.

I'm sorry. I had no idea... and I said you were laid back.

It's okay. What are you worried about?

Last night I had such a good time I forgot about my injury.

Really?

In Japan, everybody was keeping after me about it.

I'm really sorry. Saying you have no troubles...

How did your physical exam go?

Well, it depends on the test results,

but if there's a chance of recovery, I'll have the surgery here.

Surgery?!

But I won't know until I get the tests results back.

- Let's go pray about it! - Eh?!

Pray that you I recover!

- Sakiko. Sakiko! - Sorry.

- Table two, please. - Okay, I'm coming.

I'm so sorry...

Sorry.

Ms. Konishi!!

I'm so glad I ran into you!

I'm done with my work for the day, so I thought I'd show you around.

I just stopped by your hotel.

Are you out of Red Socks Mascots?

Yeah, we're out of stock. Probably be getting them for about two weeks.

Two weeks? Right. Thank you.

It looks like they're out of them.

If they order them, it'll take two weeks.

I see...

If you like, shall I pick one up and send it to you?

Wouldn't that be quite a bother?

Not at all.

Then, perhaps I'll impose on you.

Okay.

Now, T-shirts...

For your man who's a big fan of the Major Leagues?

- Eh? - A souvenir for him?

Yes, for my man who's a big fan of the Major Leagues.

Uh-oh! So she's not been too busy to find a guy!

Did I really look like that?

No.

Actually, that is rude, to say a pretty woman like you

has no man in her life.

Excuse me.

Do your best, now.

Yes!

May I sit here?

Sure.

Oh!

You've got such nerve coming to another company's cafeteria!

So what? The food here is cheap and good.

You look as spunky as ever.

You, too. I hear Yuko's in Boston!

You two write to each other about everything!

True. If you don't watch out, you can't do anything wrong.

I'm not doing anything wrong.

You've sure changed.

How so?

Before, you'd never have let Yuko go off on a trip.

That's not true.

And you're being very cooperative about her work.

She seems so busy, of course I'll lend her a hand.

I knew it! Because of what happened?

Eh?

You're in the weaker position.

Listen, here.

Sure enough. They have the best soup here!

Right...

You found her a job after she started talking about one?

Right. Why?

I wondered why Yuko suddenly wanted to go to work.

How do you feel about it, as a husband?

I thought she wanted her own time and reason for living,

instead of being just a wife and mother.

That may not be the only reason.

Eh?

If she becomes financially stable, she might leave you.

You never know about women.

Don't be silly.

I'm joking! You took me seriously, didn't you?!

No, I didn't.

- You did! - No, I didn't!

Mayuko is struggling with some things herself.

She said she wanted a place to find affirmation.

That's what her e-mail said.

How nice! I don't want to go back!

It's a really nice place.

It'd be nice just to stay here to live.

Then, will you come here to live?

If I had a love like yours...

Then, call Ichiro over... Right?

Sure!

Ichiro, huh...?

What are you sighing about?

Don't you think the greatest happiness is being needed?

Being of use to someone! Doesn't that make you feel alive?!

You're the type to devote yourself to someone's needs.

Aren't you?

Even if I weren't, I've got lots of things to do.

Right. You're a mother.

True. Whether that is happiness or not...

What are you talking about?! You two are both happy!

Sakiko, you hang in there and make that love work!

Sakiko!

Oh, dear! Did I say something wrong?

No, no! I'm sorry! I just suddenly...

It's nothing! How strange I'm being!

I was just feeling a little homesick.

Remember how we all used to talk at Mayumi's shop?

Anyway, let's go or you're going to miss your plane!

No way! They didn't have any?!

So I've asked someone to send you one.

In the meantime, this is for you...

A T- shirt.

And for Momo-chan...

- That's lovely! - It is, isn't it?

It's so lovely.

- And for Father and for Mother, too. - Really?

You didn't have to go to all that trouble.

In gratitude for your looking after things here.

Grandpa took me to Disneyland!

Isn't that wonderful! Thank you so much.

No problem. I enjoyed it, too.

But young people have it so nice, nowadays.

In my era, going overseas with my friends was unthinkable.

You ought to go, Mom.

Sure! It'd help me out, too!

But I couldn't...

I'll take you!

I don't think you're able.

Hello? Please give me the room of your guest, Aida Ichiro.

I mean Oyabu Joji's room, please!

Hi, Itchan?! It's me...

Oh, I see... All right... No, thank you.

Yes.

Here...

Eh?

I didn't want to give it to you in front of everyone.

Oh...

The one you use now is getting a bit old...

This must've been expensive!

I bought it with my salary.

You should've bought something for yourself.

I did buy things for myself. And now I'm flat broke!

Don't tell me I wasn't giving you enough money before...

No, that's not it. However, when it's your salary,

I don't want to spend it on frivolous things...like this.

Well, thank you. I'll take good care of it.

- Want a beer? - Yes.

Listen, Yuko...

I've got something I want to talk...

I can't believe it! It's the office!

Hello, Konishi here.

Yes, thank you. I'm sorry I took off for a vacation so suddenly...

We'd like you to be second in command of the Osaka office.

You don't have a problem with moving there, do you?

No, not at all.

So you'd like me to go there directly at 10:00 AM?

Yes.

Morning!

Where's Miss Mayumi? Absent again?

Absent again.

What's going on with her?

Ever since she came back from Boston...

Did something happen in Boston?

Boston...

Marathon?!

Dear Reiko, I got home safely from Boston.

Before I could catch my breath, I was back at work the next day.

The ceremony is tomorrow, isn't it?

The children didn't seem to be lonely while I was gone...

Now don't fight! Look, I brought you ice cream!

I'm looking forward to them growing up,

but as a parent, it also makes me a little sad.

Reiko, do you remember Sakiko?

She's the woman who went with a younger man to Boston.

She was so passionate about him, she threw away everything here.

Now it looks as if they are not doing so well.

Maybe reality put a damper on their passion.

Love makes us dream wonderful fairy tale dreams...

Anyone, no matter who it is, when they're in the dream,

cannot imagine waking up from it.

But recently, I've come to think

that all love eventually comes to an end.

Even so, like being under a magic spell, people fall in love.

Like being under a magic spell.

What a surprise!

Do you run every day?

No, I just started, sort of.

What a coincidence!

A amazing coincidence!

Hey! How did it go? The results of the exam?

Well...

What did they tell you?

About 20%.

Eh?

The chances of surgery helping.

There are more risks than chances of success.

I'm really undecided what to do now.

Should I have the surgery? Or should I just retire?

Retire? You're only 30!

Our professional lives are not very long.

High school, college, now as an adult... All I've done is rugby.

Maybe now I should just be a salaried worker somewhere.

What do you think, Mayumi?

Eh?

If you were to decide for me, maybe I could accept it.

Yuko, can I have a minute...?

Did you know about the deadline for the Audio Hit page?

No. I just heard to finish it as soon as possible.

I wish you'd checked! They needed it today!

See, isn't that good? Your grandma is the best cook!

I'm home!

Huh? Papa, what's wrong?

Aren't you feeling well?

Why on earth would you think that?

You're home so early!

No, there's nothing wrong with me. Where's Yuko?

Working overtime. When I peeked in on the kids,

they were eating Cup O'Noodles!

All she had to do was call and I would have fixed dinner!

Sometimes she's too fastidious. You're going to eat, too?

Sure.

This is a good opportunity, so can I talk to you all?

Momo and Kenta, too. Listen closely.

I'm really sorry. I'll get it to you as soon as possible.

That won't do! We have to have it today!

Why do they always send you to me?!

Yuko!

Oh, Mother! Is something wrong?

Whatever is going on?! Ryohei going to live alone in Osaka?!

Eh?

He's being transferred to Osaka.

Ryohei is?

Don't tell me... you don't know anything about it?

No...

I really don't want to say this, but something's wrong here.

You should get along fine on just Ryohei's salary,

but suddenly you start working, start leaving the kids alone,

start going off overseas! Now, Ryohei's going to Osaka?!

What on earth is going on?!

What are you two talking about out here?

When did you hear you were being transferred?

While you were gone.

How many years?

Two, maybe three at the longest.

Are you really going to go by yourself?

Listen, Papa...

Ryohei!

Osaka isn't far by Bullet Train!

I'll try to come home every weekend.

Why are you like this?

Eh?

Why do you make decisions about important things without me?

I meant to talk to you about it today, but you were working.

And not just today, you're busy all the time.

But you could have said something!

Okay, I'll ask you: Are you willing to leave the house empty

and come with me to Osaka?

And what about the kids' school? What about that?

But we should have at least talked about those things!

Not just those things! You've got your work, right?

Here you've just gotten used to it...

That's true.

See? You've already got your answer.

What good is talking?

That's not the issue!

You and I are a married couple.

Yet you just decide important things

and convince yourself they're right!

That other time... we promised.

We promised we'd try to start over again.

Say something! How can I understand if you don't talk?!

Everything is solved if I go to Osaka, right? So what's wrong?

- Is that really what you think? - Eh?

Maybe you really don't want me to work at all?

What?! You were the one who said you wanted to work!

And I'm doing my best to help you out!

What are you talking about?! What are you unhappy about?!

Mama, I'm okay with it.

Me, too! I'll be the man of the house!

What are you looking so gloomy about?!

Mayumi!

Amazing you could do that...!

That's true.

Here.

It's a charm from the shrine near my house.

These really work.

You think it's all right?

Why?

You prayed in that church in Boston...won't they conflict?

Don't worry! It's the same God!

Whether it's Christ or Amaterasu, there's no difference!

Wanting someone else to decide is sort of cowardly.

You said that the other day.

Usually folks know the answer before they ask others what to do.

This is important. You should decide for yourself.

Yes, we finished early... They'll have the contract ready.

Yes, I'm coming right back. Good bye.

Hello?

Hello? Is this Miss Konishi?

Thank you so much for hand delivering these.

No, I had something I had to come back for anyway.

Business?

No, not exactly.

Miss Konishi, you seem busy as always.

Well...

This area really takes me back.

Before I went to Boston, I came here often.

Is that so?

Maybe you and I walked past each other...

Um, Mr. Sakuraba...

This is a very pushy thing to ask, but I have a favor...

Hello, Salon de Lutin...

Will you be going out this evening?

Yes, please wait a moment.

Sensei! A Mr. Kurihara is on the phone for you.

Okay.

Hello?

Mayumi?

Yes.

Mayumi!

Sorry! Have you been waiting long?

Is it okay to leave your shop?

No problem! I left the young ones to took after things.

What is it you wanted to tell me? Have you decided?

A huge change of fortune!

Like what?

My company fired me today!

- This is my son, Shun. - Hello.

This is my friend, Miss Konishi Yuko.

Hello.

How old is your son?

He's eight. In the second grade.

Today's our last day together.

Eh?

His mother is getting remarried soon.

She wants me to make this the last time I see him.

She said a child doesn't need two fathers.

On such an important occasion, should I be here?

I asked you specifically.

I know it's a selfish reason, and I'm sorry.

I hoped if he thought his dad had a new life,

we could part more easily.

That way, there wouldn't be any lingering affections.

And I don't think I could stand it if he and I were alone today.

Please! Just for today, pretend you're my new love interest?

All right? What do you want to go on next?

The roller coaster!

The roller coaster?

They're getting rid of things they can't use. Restructuring.

Restructuring?

The company isn't doing well now.

If I quit now, I can get some severance pay.

And they say I'll get offers from other teams.

Unbelievable! What do they think people are?!

When you're well, they fawn all over you,

but when you're injured, they throw you out?! Unforgivable!

Isn't here any one around you to stand up for you?

Like a coach or a manager! Or your teammates?!

The whole section is out.

What?

Meaning, the company is firing all of us.

It's not especially me they're doing this to.

So, do I still look like I haven't a care in the world?

If so, I must really be something.

A little too big yet...

There's Mommy!

Can I go visit you sometime?

In Boston?

Yes!

Well, that might not be possible.

Why?

You can't get on an airplane by yourself,

and you don't speak English...

Daddy, are you going to marry that woman?

Who knows?

I don't know yet.

Okay!

Shun!

She's calling you!

Okay. Bye-bye!

- Did you have fun? - Yeah!

She and I had been dating since high school.

We were married ten years, but it still didn't work out.

Every day was like a war.

We'd get up, take the boy to nursery school, then go to work.

When she had to work late, one of us would have to pick him up,

take him to my parents house, then go back to work.

Your wife worked?

She really did try hard, though.

She felt she had to do her work and raise her child perfectly.

Then one day she said to me we weren't much of a family.

Eh?

"You're always just watching, but you've never changed a diaper."

"You think it natural for me to be doing all the housework."

Living together seems so easy, but is really quite hard.

Eh?

For instance, who picks up the one cup on the table...?

It's little things like that which can cause a rift.

Despite the fact you live together... actually because of it,

If you don't talk things over, you can't understand.

I'm sorry. You see, I've been married for 11 years now.

I wanted to tell you the truth, but it got away from me.

I have two children, and I just started working recently.

I sort of figured it out, in Boston,

when you were buying souvenirs for your "boyfriend?"

Thanks for being with me today.

Not at all.

- It's sort of too bad. - What?

If you really were single, I might have asked you out to dinner.

Well, I should have kept pretending I was single!

Your husband is a lucky man.

He's got that lovely smile to look at all the time.

That might not be true.

I might not be such a good wife.

Well, goodbye.

Ms. Konishi!

There are some things you don't know how much you treasure

until you lose them.

When my family was all together, I thought there was no hope.

But if the two of us had tried to work things out back then,

we might be looking at a different future than this.

Thank you. Goodbye.

Goodbye.

Isn't this nice! It's so nice to be around water!!

Hey! What are you doing?!

Why you...!

I got it to my eyes...

Are you okay?

That's dirty!!

That water's cold!

Oh, dear! What do we do now? We're soaked!

- Listen, Mayumi... - Huh?

Have you ever thought you'd like to marry someone?

Eh?

Well, of course I have! How old do you think I am?

22?

Silly boy!

Not possible for me!

I'm out of a job!

Can I stay like this for a while?

I'm so tired...

Mayumi?

I have to go.

Listen...

What?

Don't give up. I'm pulling for you.

Okay?

You have one message.

Hello? Mayumi? Whacha doin'? It's me...

Itchan?

There's no one home. Please leave a message.

Hello? This is Sakiko. Sorry to call so early...

Hello, Sakiko?

You're breaking up with Mr. Sawamura?

She said that's what she's decided.

It wasn't going to work. It was doomed from the start.

He left... Mr. Sawamura.

The other day I got a call from Risa.

It was my birthday, and she called to say hello.

I hadn't even realized it was my birthday.

Then she told me she had good news, that she was getting married.

While Risa is growing up and thinking about her future,

what am I doing?

At my age, chasing after a love like a dream...!

There's no way that such a life would last. I'm a fool.

Sakiko...

I'm the one who's a fool.

I don't know what I should do!

Listen, if you love him, why are you thinking of leaving him?

You loved him! That's why you followed him to Boston, right?!

Mayumi..?

I have to move out before Itchan comes back.

I can't bear to see Itchan. I'm too ashamed to.

Mayumi, calm down a little. What's wrong?

I've fallen in love with someone.

All I can think about, 24 hours a day, is him!

I try to think of Itchan, but I just can't!

I don't know how this happened, but I love him so much.

Don't tell me it's...?

What should I do, Yuko?!

So, what's with your husband?

Once he's decided, he won't listen any more.

Maybe I shouldn't have gotten you that job interview.

That's not true.

Why did you want to work so badly?

Well, let's see...

I wanted another me,

one that wasn't a wife or a mother.

I wanted to feel I could live on my own.

You're too greedy, Yuko.

Me?

Of course! Look at me! I'm not a wife or a mother

so I have to work!

You want to have it all. Extravagant!

And your husband! He's trying hard to be good to you.

From the beginning he's been crazy in love with you.

If not, most men would have divorced you, after that happened.

Please look after the kids. Yuko's got her work.

I'm so sorry to be so selfish about it...

It's no problem for me! But what about you kids?

Is it okay if your papa is gone?

Sure it is! After all, they've got a grandfather!

And he's coming home on Saturdays!

It'll be just like it is now!

You do your homework,

and Kenta, don't make trouble for your mother, got that?

I understand!

- No, the answer is,"Yes, sir!" - Yes, sir!

That blue suit? Did you send it on already?

Mmm...

Well, I guess three suits will do for now...

I'm sorry.

For what?

The other day I said things I shouldn't have.

I was tired from work.

Don't overdo it. Wherever you can, let Mom do things.

She's really geared up for it.

Listen, Ryohei...?

Why did you want to marry me?

What's this about so suddenly?

Well... Just wondered.

Well...

I guess I really don't know...

Before I knew it, I had proposed to you.

What about you?

Eh?

I...

I guess I don't know, either.

Before I knew it, I had answered you.

I see.

Then, we're in the same boat.

Right.

Hello? It's me, Mayumi!

Mayumi...

I was wondering what you were up to...

I hadn't heard from you since that night...

How cold you are! And I was worried about you!

Mayumi, I decided to have the surgery.

Really?

I thought about a lot of things after that.

Even if I quit my job, I can't quit rugy.

Can we get together now? I've got today off...!

I'm leaving today.

What?

Why didn't you tell me?

It was put together pretty quickly.

I'll go to see you off! What flight are you on?

No, it's too much trouble for you.

Mayumi, thank you for everything.

It was because of you that I made the decision.

Daisuke...

I'll phone you.

I see... Well, of course!

How stupid! I feel like such a fool!

What on earth was I doing?!

Come on in!

No, no? This is fine...Yuko. I'm going back to my parents'...

I can't stay around here and be a bother to Risa.

I thought I'd go back to the country and think things over.

I have to decide what to do about my divorce, too.

When I get settled, I'll contact you.

Bye.

Tell Mayumi goodbye from me.

Her shop was closed when I stopped by.

See you.

Sakiko!

Mmm?

Have you no regrets?

Is this really okay?

I have no regrets! It was only one year, but I was happy!

Thank you very much!

Thank you!

Thank you!

Thank you! Thank you!

Mayumi! You came!

You should have told me you were coming!

Come! Come! Come on over here!

How've you been?

Itchan, I...!

I have to tell you something.

Oh, come on! What is it? How was the show?

It was wonderful... Fabulous!

You think?!

Listen, I...

Mr. Sato! This is my wife! She finally came to see it!

- Thank you! - Thank you!

Listen, Itchan...

Mr. Suzuki! Let me introduce you to my wife! This is my wife!

- I'm sorry, Itchan! - Huh?

Even though you're the only man I'll ever love, I...

What is all this? What are you crying for?

You're that happy?

I'm sorry!

What are you apologizing for?

Itchan, can you forgive me?

Huh? Whatever!

Mr. Tanaka! This is my wife!

She saw the play, and she's overcome with emotion!

She's crying! Mayumi, say hello!

Hello...

SHIMA KENICHI

Dear Yuko. How have you been?

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

I now live in Asahikawa.

I'm leaving the operation of the Tokyo shop to my staff.

I was truly amazed when I saw you that day.

I was heading up north that day.

The truth is that I was with another person.

She's working with me in the studio in Asahikawa.

Running into you that day was God's way of saying

that I should let you know, so I'm writing this letter.

How is everyone in your family?

In the not too distant future, I may become a father,

and have a family of my own.

When I think of that, I realize how glad I am

that I didn't take you away from Kenta and Momo-chan.

Please take good care of your family,

and spend your days in ways that are like you.

And someday, when your daughter grows up and gets married,

let me build furniture for her.

Kenichi.

Risa told me you'd be on this train.

Let's go back together.

Here I'd finally made my decision!

I'm sorry.

I made you very unhappy.

Last year at Christmas, when you came to the airport...

I swore I'd make you happy.

And not just then.

From the day I met you till now!

Since you left, there hasn't been a day I haven't thought of you.

I found a job...

It's just a little company...

Won't you come back to me?

Hello? That cell phone belongs to me, Konishi.

Yes, it does.

Yuko? Did I leave my cell phone at home?

Yes, again.

Sorry! Listen, can you send it to me?

It'll be okay if you turn it off.

Oh, hold it a minute. Something's arrived.

Coming!

Delivery!

I'm delivering the phone you forgot.

Momo and Kenta want to be with you, too.

What a surprise this is!

What did you do about the house?

I asked Mother to watch it. She thinks that's best, too.

And... your job?

Don't worry. Someday, after Memo and Kenta are grown,

I might want to work again.

But you just got used to it!

I'm glad I tried working a while.

Eh?

I think I've understood how hard things are for you.

It's hard to hold down a job.

It's not that I'm running away from it, but I

began to wonder if it was necessary to work, when I'm sacrificing all of you.

I realize there are some things more important I have to do.

Well, I think I've come to understand something, too.

Hmm?

Housework is a lot of trouble!

You're just figuring that out?

Right. Just now.

Dear Reiko: I thank you for all the help you've given me.

From this autumn, we are all going to be living in Osaka.

I'm still not used to it,

but the four of us are happy in our tiny apartment.

When you said to me that I was greedy to want it all,

I realized you were exactly right.

If I had forced the issue and continued to work,

I might have lost something very precious to me.

- Good morning. - Good morning, Hiroshi.

How are you?

Hiroshi!

Reiko, what is the most important thing in your life?

For Sakiko, it's Mr. Sawamura.

- Is this fine with you? - It's fine!

Hey, Itchan! Listen!

- Should I but this here? - Stop that!

It's fine!

And Mayumi needs her Ichinro.

For me, the time I spend with my family is so humdrum,

but there's nothing in the world I'd trade it for.