Chapter 80: I can’t take another step

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Translator: Soafp

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And so, Maya started coming to my house once a month.

Officially, it was to pay the alimony money.

But in reality, it was akin to visiting for leisure.

I’ve sometimes thought, “Doesn’t she have any friends?” However, when I calmly reflected on myself, I realized I didn’t have many friends either, aside from Katsuragi. So, I refrained from making such remarks.

I couldn’t help but wonder what happened to my relationship with Mizuki.

…

Well, after such an incident, it’s impossible to stay in touch with Mizuki. I might even be justified in hating her.

“…And then, that person collapsed, causing a panic at work…”

Half-absentmindedly nodding along, I wasn’t really concerned with what I was thinking, as Maya happily recounted the events of the past month.

Her health had somewhat improved, and she seemed to have recently started working. Though she was a temp worker. Her hair had grown enough that she didn’t need to wear a wig, though I wasn’t used to seeing Maya with short hair, giving her an unfamiliar look. Maybe that’s why I can remain calm even when Maya is in front of me.

But getting back to the topic, Maya would come almost entirely to hand over her salary from her temp job to me. Since she still lived with her parents, she probably managed with just what she needed without wasting money. I envy that.

I’m only thinking about how I’m going to live from now on.

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While meeting Maya regularly,

I also went on what could be considered dates with Mari-san.

Despite everything, the words Mari-san said to me the other day have been bothering me.

It might be self-conceited, but I think Mari-san has feelings for me.

But honestly, I’m scared to take the next step.

–After all, there’s no guarantee that Mari-san won’t betray me, right?

–There’s no way that would happen. Mari-san understands how it feels to be betrayed.

Both sides of me are sincere.

In the midst of this endless loop of thoughts, I realized that it’s almost been a year since the divorce.

This can’t go on. I know that. So, I have to draw a line for myself.

I can’t afford to be swept away anymore.

Once she finishes repaying the alimony money to me, all ties will be severed.

I have to forcibly cut off any lingering attachments.

…

With that thought, I suddenly came to my senses.

I realized that I still had lingering feelings for Maya.

I can’t show this dumbfounded face to Maya or Mari-san.

…

But now, I have to settle it myself.

It’s something trivial now.

It should be trivial.

Therefore, I have to take action. For myself, and for myself alone.