[Novel] We Who Cannot Breathe Part 1: Chapter 4 "Aki's Anguish"

"I have a daughter in her third year of high school, but lately I feel like she's avoiding me... When I consult my husband, he doesn't really listen, saying 'It's probably just your imagination,' and my mother-in-law says, 'There are times like that. You're not the only one. I got through it, so you'll be fine. Why don't you just quit your job and make some time?'"

"And so, you've become exhausted."

"Yes. It might be a rebellious phase, and I do think that quitting my job to make more time to talk to my daughter is a valid point. But I love my work, and I'm in the middle of an important project right now. At the same time, I don't think things should stay this way with my daughter. Am I being selfish for trying to have both a career and motherhood..."

Aki looked down and, with a lack of confidence, poured out the feelings she had been bottling up inside her chest.

"No, I don't think that's the case at all. However, as you said, Aki-san, things cannot continue as they are. You will break down. Even if you were to quit your job to make time for your daughter, I don't think she would be happy about it. I think you should value what you want to do and how you want to be more."

Aki lifted her head, which had been pointed downward, as if surprised.

"You're the first person to ever say that to me. Even my friends my own age just say, 'Everyone is the same,' or 'You're lucky you're even able to keep working.'"

Perhaps reassured by Onishi's words, Aki talked about her workplace and family, the things that were painful, and the things that made her happy.

Onishi continued to listen to Aki until she had said everything she needed to say.

"I really think you've done well to manage on your own until now. But isn't it okay to ask for someone's help now? If you'd like, would you let me help you move forward in a way that you are satisfied with?"

Aki had come to trust this young man who had taken her story seriously with eyes as straight as a boy's.