Epilogue from the Heart

San'ya: A hidden disappointment of Japan. Hard to find on a map, even harder to live in. A shameful mirror to Japan's economic miracles, a place without any prideful shine like the rest of Tokyo. Nonetheless, a place that’s called home for many people. A fading population of the working class, Jōhatsu, and forgotten elders.

One such elderly man routinely awakes, just minutes before dawn. He found some semblance of peace in one corner of this region in an overly confined apartment complex. With residence making home even in the hallways and stairs. One silver lining is the surprising cleanliness as many still find the time to maintain their respects for what they do have. With the space he has, this small room, with only a closet and bathroom, and a connected living room kitchen. He positioned enough room for two discarded beds made for children, but thankfully repurposed for himself and the one light he’s ever needed.

Toshiro finds his glasses from 1999, to begin his daily routine. Two quick stretches, the best he can muster for his age. Then moving on to drink the remaining cup of water he had from the night before. Except, something was not as it normally is. As he has always expected to be there nearly every and each morning without fail.

At the second bed, where his light rests, to brighten his day. His light. His respect. His only reason for living. Was gone.

Instead of panic, he investigated, to notice the bathroom door slightly open. Focusing his hearing he realizes that there's movement in there, but not the normal commotion of using the sink or shower. Energetic, happy, free. Especially rhythmic, he thought.

“Kay-chan?” Toshiro knocked respectfully on the door.

“Ojii-chan, sorry did I wake you?” Kay remarked with glee.

“No… What are you up to?” Toshiro smiled with a childlike curiosity. Focusing on his granddaughter’s joyful presence.

“I was, uh, dancing.” She replied with a light guilt.

“In the bathroom? It's a little small.” He smirks with glee.

“Yeah, I didn't want to wake you, so I tried to do it here.” She giggled.

“And why is that? I’ve never heard someone wanting to dance so badly.” His joy grew with the innocence of the moment.

“I don’t know, I just have a lot of energy since I left the hos- my trip.” She quickly spoke. “And the only way I can get rid of it is dancing—Oh, I forgot to tell you the good news!”

“Well what is it!” He tried to match her energy.

“I got a new job, and a good one!”

“Really?” Toshiro paused from the sudden rush of excitement he’s felt in years. “I don’t know what to say, but that’s great, Kay-chan!”

“Thanks, Ojii-chan.”

Kay instantly wrapped her arms around her equally sized grandfather. Embraced by the reflection of love they have, elevated by excitement for the future that they’ll get to share.