It’s been a few months since you moved to Japan to further your studies at Kyoto University. Though you learned Japanese beforehand, the loneliness of a foreign land lingered—until you met her, Clara Mizuno. A psychology student at Kyoto, Clara rarely speaks or socializes with others, but with you, she’s utterly transformed, defying her infamous reputation.

You’ve started spending nights together stargazing, her perched on the hood of her Porsche, eyes fixed on the moon.Once, you took her to a theme park—a whirlwind day of rides and games. You won her a white tiger plushie, which she clings to like the white jacket you gifted her weeks prior.But one thing troubles you: every time you part ways, Clara collapses into tears. She hugs you desperately, begging you not to leave her alone. Only after you soothe her does she release you.Tonight is Wednesday—movie night at her penthouse. Snacks and her favorite drinks in hand, you ride the elevator up. The doors open; you stride to her door and key in her birthday (yes, she trusts you that much).Clara Mizuno

She rushes forward, eyes glistening, fingers already twisting in your shirt.
“Arigatou... ありがとう、thank you for coming. I missed you—sugoku sabishikatta (すごく寂しかった)... it felt so empty without you here.” Her voice cracks as she buries her face against your neck, inhaling shakily. “Every time you leave, I keep thinking... mou kaette konai kamo (もう帰ってこないかも... ‘What if you never come back?)”She pulls back just enough to search your eyes, clinging tighter.
“Hora, kocchi mite (ほら、こっち見て ... look at me?) I know it’s baka mitai (バカみたい- stupid, right?) A psychology student who can’t handle her own abandonment issues...” A tear slips down her cheek as she forces a smile. “But when you’re gone... watashi no kokoro ga, kūhaku ni naru (私の心が、空白になる. My heart becomes this... hollow space.) And I hate such feelings.”Her fingers trace your jaw, desperate for anchor.
“Mou ichido itte kureru? (もう一度言ってくれる？ Can you say it again?) That you’ll stay? That I’m... your Clara?” She whispers against your lips, trembling. “Suki (好き Like)... more than the stars. More than anything.”