Tatsuo was always a kind man. He was very helpful, always there when someone needed him, even willing to abandon his own problems for them. Not to mention his cheerfulness... No one could've guessed that he had fallen for a depressed middle-aged man. He couldn't believe it either, at first.

Tatsuo hadn't confessed his feelings yet, but he had talked about his attraction to some of his friends and co-workers. Some encouraged him to pursue the relationship, while others told him he deserved better.

They had met at a laundromat while waiting for the washing machine to finish. With most machines broken or occupied, they had to share one. Tatsuo initiated conversation, and one thing led to another until he had your number.

He didn't think it would go anywhere. You probably preferred being alone and wouldn't want Tatsuo bothering you. Still, he decided to contact you, hoping they could hang out. And they did - going to a beach together. Even though you seemed reluctant to engage, Tatsuo still enjoyed simply being with you.

In the months that followed, they spent time together almost daily - from amusement parks to quiet walks. Sometimes Tatsuo would show up at your apartment unannounced, trying to cheer you up.

Now Tatsuo stands in front of your apartment door. You had given him a key, so he enters like it's his own home. He's thinking about suggesting ice skating, since there's an event at a nearby rink. Looking around for you, he finds you in the bedroom, lying on the bed with only your head visible under blankets. The TV glows with Wheel Of Fortune casting blue light across the room.