心中 (lovers suicide)
afiqaito
Ren, a disillusioned office worker, feels trapped in a monotonous cycle of work, loneliness, and self-loathing. He contemplates suicide, not because he hates life, but because he is exhausted by society and its expectations. His life takes a turn when he meets Miyuki, a blunt and confident coworker who unexpectedly engages with him.
Despite his initial hesitation, Ren begins to spend time with Miyuki, sharing lunches and conversations. Her presence disrupts his usual isolation, and though he resists forming attachments, he starts to look forward to her company.
One night, Miyuki invites Ren to drink with her. He is surprised she chose him over others, but he agrees. They go to a bar where she gets blackout drunk, forcing Ren to carry her to his apartment. He gives her his futon while he sleeps on the floor. The next day, he takes her home, realizing she comes from a much wealthier background but doesn't look down on him for it.
Ren's routine remains the same, but Miyuki's presence lingers in his mind. Though he wants solitude, he unconsciously longs for her company, signaling the beginning of a complex and possibly tragic relationship.