Nothing much changed with the new year, but the joy of its greeting still made Maru smile.

“You’re going to school today too?”

“Yup.”

“Is acting really that fun?”

“Try it if you get the chance. I know some middle schools have a club.”

“Should I?”

His sister ate her cereal with a grin on her face. Her new year’s resolution was to wake up at 7am even during her vacation. Maru had to wonder how long this would continue. Probably just three days. She’d struggle to wake up tomorrow, he just knew it.

“I’m going to exercise as well tomorrow. Gonna run in the park.”

Well, it looked like she set up grand plans for herself already.

“I hope you keep your resolution.”

“What the heck, you think I won’t? I’m really good at this. Right, mom?”

All she got back was an empty smile. His sister pouted and told them to just watch.

“You’re going to be home late today as well?” His mom asked.

“Don’t know. I’ll text you if I’m gonna be late.”

His mom yawned. Maru remembered her still talking to his dad by the time he went to sleep. It only made sense that she’d feel tired.

“You should sleep.”

“Don’t be too lat...