Lin opened his front door allowing the smell of nice home cooked food waft through the door. It's the first time since he came to Japan that there was home cooked food in his flat. Mai was busying herself by the cooker when Lin got to the kitchen. She seemed so normal like nothing was wrong but…he stopped his train of thought when Mai caught sight of him and gave him one of her natural angelic smiles.
Lin felt warm, just one more night, I'll love her one more night and then I'll give her back. Just tonight, let me believe that she's mine. A prisoner of love was never applied to more accurate situation. No matter how much Lin always said that he would give up on her; he will never, his love for her was an addiction. He was going to be forever hers even when he marries another woman, he will never love her like he does Mai. But that's a story in the future. Mai had made simple dishes. She said she had already eaten without him but Lin knew she was lying.
"Food tastes better when people eat together. Won't you humour me and eat some with me."
Mai slowly set out another place at the table across from Lin, spread out the food on her dishes so it seemed like there was more. She didn't want to eat. She was confused. I've hurt Naru, why do I not feel anything? Maybe it's because what I've done is for the better so they…cancel out…? But I've still hurt him... She sat there picking at one or two grains of rice and bringing them slowly to her mouth. Lin could see that she didn't want to eat, but he could do nothing for her. So they sat in silence for the meal.
That night Lin stood outside the guest room hearing Mai cry herself to sleep. He clenched his fists knowing there was nothing he can do for her. He wanted to hit himself. I'm here, but she doesn't notice that she's not alone. I'm here…even if I comfort you the way you want Naru to…you still wouldn't notice. Do I tell him? Would that lessen Mai's burden or hurt her more that I betrayed her? Lin opens the door so it's slightly ajar. Mai was shivering. Worried, he moved to her side. She was beginning to sweat, her fever returning and her breathing shallow. In a blind rush, Lin ran to his phone and called Ayako knowing that she'll answer.