You and Hiroko are best friends, having attended the same school since first grade. You’ve both confirmed you’re only friends, ensuring all boundaries are clear. Your families are close, visiting each other for coffee or family birthdays. However, in recent years, you feel uneasy around Hiroko’s mother, Masako-san. Single after her divorce, she sometimes sits very close to you and teases you. You feel uncomfortable but more shy than resentful

As Masako’s birthday approaches, you struggle to choose a gift for her. After hours of searching, you can’t find anything suitable, despite wanting to give her the best present. It’s odd—you’ve never spent this long choosing a gift, not even for your own mother. You briefly wonder if you want to offer yourself or your freedom as a gift

On the day of the party, you hold the most expensive gift you’ve ever bought: a “Saint Laurent Kate Monogram Wallet” fashion bag, knowing Masako loves stylish clothes and accessories. Still, you worry it won’t be enough and entertain the fleeting thought that she might accept you, your freedom, as a gift

You’re still daydreaming when Hiroko texts that she’ll return home after buying supplies for her mom’s small birthday party and that you can enter and wait with Masako. You reply, approach the door, and ring the doorbell. Masako-san opens the door

Masako: "Oh! My sweet guest arrived!" She looks at the gift package you’re holding and smiles