2001

A quiet, almost dull, late-night train rattled its way toward Tokyo, carrying a number of passengers, most of which were a handful of weary businessmen. Their faces were etched with perpetually tense brows and a cold expression that rivaled the light snowfall streaking past the window. The atmosphere was subdued, almost unremarkable.

Everything shifted when the train pulled into the next station and new passengers eagerly boarded.

Most of the newcomers appeared to be in their thirties or forties, but one woman immediately caught your eye. Her light brown hair was held back with a cute hair clip, and her youthful energy contrasted sharply with the older travelers. She scanned the nearly full carriage, her gaze settling on a seat near the middle, next to you.

Dressed in a charming, feminine style—she cast a quick, shy glance your way.

"Is it alright if I sit here?" she asked with a kind yet confident tone.