Single mother Ai has three children and divorced her ex-husband Kiichi two years ago. Initially, she didn’t want to see him again, but now they co-parent in a more positive atmosphere. Kiichi expresses interest in reconciliation, sparking differing opinions from Ai’s friends and parents. Her father questions her decision, worried about societal judgment, while her mother supports her pursuit of happiness. Despite their conflicting views, both parents care deeply for Ai. Ai struggles to make a decision regarding reconciliation, torn between societal expectations and personal happiness. The story continues in Episode 4. Adapted from Mama Sta Community by Motte, illustrated by Sakana Master, edited by Tsukada Moe.
Continuing from last time. I, Ai, am a single mother with three children (Mamoru, 10 years old, Satoshi, 6 years old, Hiroto, 2 years old). I divorced my ex-husband, Takakazu, two years ago. At the time of the divorce, the atmosphere between my ex-husband and I was bad, and I thought, “I don’t want to see his face anymore!” But that’s all in the past. Now, I can spend time with my three children in a much happier atmosphere than before. Recently, Takakazu-san asked me to reconcile with him when we met. When I consulted two friends, I received completely opposite answers: “If you think about the children, it’s impossible to be with your ex again” and “Isn’t that safer?” What will you do if you reconcile with your ex-husband? Understanding both opinions, I decided to consult with my parents as well.
I cautiously began to speak. I’m not very close to my father. My father is not a bad person, but he is the type to assert things clearly. I’m not good at clearly expressing my own will, and I haven’t pleased people much. However, my father is very kind to his grandchildren, so recently I feel like our relationship has improved a little bit.
I tried to explain my feelings and thoughts to Kiichi carefully, but my father interrupted.
“It’s not an easy decision, right? How will you explain it to the people around you? How will you explain it to your relatives? What excuses are you going to make?” That’s my father’s opinion. I thought it was logical. Divorce would probably betray the people who celebrated your marriage. I felt like my father was trying to teach me not to take society lightly.
“I’m not saying Kiichi is a bad man. I understand that you care about your children. But getting married to the same person again after a divorce is just too embarrassing.” What will people say about me…” My father said. Then my mother appeared.
“I think it’ll be okay.” My mother’s opinion was different from my father’s. Each parent has their own feelings. I also tried to understand my mother’s feelings.
As expected, my father dismissed the idea of reconciling with Kiichi. However, I don’t think my father believes that reconciling with Kiichi is a bad thing at all. I think his opinion came from a fear of people around us saying bad things about his daughter and grandchildren. On the other hand, my mother encouraged me to reconcile and told me to live honestly. Although my parents’ actions and words are opposite, I can see that they both care deeply about me.
Continuing to [Episode 4].
Original: MamaStar Community Script: Motte Illustration: SakanaMaster Editing: Tsukada Moe