Tokyo: I Sheltered the Homeless girl (1-156).

Summary

In this chapter, Mine Shiori reflects on cultural norms regarding gender interactions, especially the expectations in romantic relationships. She views Sawayama Haruno with a mix of admiration and insecurity as they share a meal, revealing a hidden affection for him. As their conversation progresses, Haruno candidly shares that he has been writing a novel, which excites Shiori, signaling her interest in him. Shiori wishes to be his first reader, which leads to a budding connection between them. However, their conversation takes a serious turn when Haruno mentions meeting someone from Shiori's former school. Shiori's reaction is revealing, as she downplays their past connection, indicating a desire to keep certain truths hidden. When prompted for more information, she reluctantly admits to being at Morishima Ritsu's school but insists they weren't truly acquainted. As their discussion continues, Shiori brings up a necklace that Haruno found, which belonged to her mother. This leads to a deeper, emotional revelation about her mother’s condition and their past. Shiori's statement, "Dead people do not smile," indicates her complex feelings tied to her mother’s illness and hints at a previous crush she had on Haruno. The chapter concludes with a sense of tension, as Haruno realizes the weight of Shiori's past and the impact it has on their budding relationship.

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