“There must be something for you to call first.”

- What, you don’t like it?

“No. I like it.”

- You always say you like it no matter what I do.

“It’s better than not liking it. So, what’s going on? I’m sure it’s not calling to see me at this late hour.”

- I’m going to have to miss practice tomorrow. It’s the anniversary of my father passing away, so I’m going to spend the day with my mom.

“Oh, right. Should I come visit and bring you something?”

- Yeah right. I know you don’t want to come.

She was right. Maru wanted to be by her side, but he had no plans to visit her house and concern himself into her family matters. It was too early for that. Plus, it would be better for each family member to fill the hole that their past father left in their hearts. Maru decided to just pray for her from afar.

- You’re not misunderstanding what I said, right? I didn’t mean that you didn’t care.

“I understood you, don’t worry. Spend a good day with your mother.”

-… Okay.

“Don’t cry too much.”

- Who’s crying? I’m used to it now. It just feels hollow.

“Sure, it’s good to hear that you’re not going to cry.”

Maru could picture her gently biting down on her lower lip on the other end. Even as an adult, she always cried on the anniversary day of her father’s passing. Even when so much time had passed, she’d cry like a broken...