Episode 44: Bonus – The Black Cat and the Labrador

A handkerchief embroidered with a Labrador and a black pencil case featuring a picture of a black cat arrived at my house.

I never imagined that Takizawa would take an interest in my birthday or give me a present. Even now, I can’t quite believe it, and I find myself staring at them over and over again.

　Since the sleepover, Takizawa hasn’t done anything strange to me. I wonder if she felt that closeness had gone too far, or if there’s another reason, but I haven’t been able to ask her anything.

I suppose I was the only one she did those things to; I felt special, so it’s a bit sad that it’s gone.

The black cat inside the black pencil case looks over at me from the desk. I look at the yellow handkerchief and the pale pink handkerchief I’ve placed by my pillow.

　Takizawa was so happy when I gave her that Labrador soft toy before, I wonder if she likes them.

I had no idea Takizawa was so good at embroidery. Or rather, I didn’t realise she liked sewing and things like that.
I don’t know anything about the things Takizawa likes…
Even though we’ve spent so much time together, it really hits home just how little I actually know about her.

Tomorrow, I’ll ask Mai when Takizawa’s birthday is.

　She might not accept it, but I want to give Takizawa something too.

The last time I wanted to give something to someone was with my mom and dad. That memory comes back to me now, and with it a nostalgia that warms my heart.

Takizawa always saves me and always warms my heart. That warmth feels so comforting; so whenever I feel a distance between us, I suddenly feel lonely and distressed.

　I wish morning would come soon.
At night, I can’t help but dwell on all sorts of negative thoughts.
With that thought, I clutched my Labrador handkerchief and drifted off to sleep.