A Day in the Life of a Carefree Soul: A Day in the Life of Haruka-den 16 'Birth of the Second Son'

Our eldest son grew up healthy and strong.

So, I made a request to my wife.

I was an only child and felt very lonely growing up. So, I'm asking you, could you please have a second child?

My wife was surprised for a moment.

I'd really rather not go through that painful experience again.

I gave up for the time being.

Then, a year later, after confirming that my wife's health had improved, I asked her again.

Perhaps feeling more confident, my wife agreed to my request.

And then, she became pregnant. This time, my wife was careful with her diet to ensure the baby wouldn't get too big, and she made sure to get some light exercise.

Ten months later, she gave birth at Kamifukuoka General Hospital to a baby weighing 3 kilograms. It was an easy delivery. This was in July 1985.

To take care of our eldest son, I requested 20 consecutive days of paid leave as paternity leave.

Back in the Showa era, paternity leave for men was unheard of. However, the company accepted my request. It was likely the first time the company had ever granted paternity leave to a husband.

This time, not only my mother-in-law but also my aunt came to help out.

A month later, I could see my wife out for a walk, energetically carrying our eldest son on her back and pushing our second son in a stroller.

This is a work of fiction based on true events.

The End