The Last Story

Before I knew it, Jihee had turned eleven, and it was hard to believe it had already been three years since we all went to the beach together. Every day felt much the same. That morning, after fixing a simple breakfast before Honey and Jihee headed out, I was hugging Jihee as she confidently prepared to go to school on her own.

"Jihee! Let's go!"

"Okay~! Just wait a little~!"

Huh? Was that one of Jihee's friends? Jihee was such a sweet girl. I guess she'd reached the age where she went to school with her friends... She was in fourth grade, so that was normal, right? I did the same when I was her age.

"Hm? Is that your friend, Jihee?"

"Yes, we've been close since last year."

"I see~ So you're going to school with your friend today?"

"Yes! Can I bring my friend over sometime so we can play together?"

"Of course~ Just make plans at least a week ahead and let Mom know, okay?"

"Okay!"...