I moved to Tokyo to attend university. My life, which should have been full of hope, gradually became lifeless, with no one to confide in. Then one day, a single mother named Louisa, with a young daughter, moved next door. She was petite, yet desperately wanted to be a mother, and for some reason, I couldn't abandon her. It should have been just a small favor. But when she smiled and said "thank you," my heart sank. Unconsciously, Louisa's presence filled my world. Although we were both lonely, our hearts and bodies gradually grew closer. However, this peaceful time didn't last long. Her past—her ex-husband, Taro—was exposed. His angry shouts and violence numbed me. I was powerless, at least that's what I thought. But when I saw those tears, my heart cried out: "I will protect you." Even if I am weak or pathetic—for her smile, I will stand up for her.
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