Megumi is a freelance working mother living with her husband and teenage son, Eita. Eita’s rebellious behavior has been a source of stress for Megumi, leading her to briefly leave home out of frustration. When she seeks advice from her sister, who has gone through a similar experience, she gains support and perspective. After a conversation with her husband, Megumi realizes the root of their family issues and decides to make a change. Despite the challenges ahead, she is determined to address the situation and restore harmony within her family. Episode 6 continues the story in the next chapter.
Continuing from last time. My name is Megumi. I live with my husband and our high school son, Eita. I am currently working as a freelancer from home, and my work has been going well in recent years. However, ever since Eita entered his rebellious phase, he has been ignoring me, getting angry and throwing things when I try to talk to him… Even my husband, like Eita, teases me about my daily struggles and actions. Exhausted, I packed my bags and left the house. But my parents told me that “if you abandon your son, you will end up isolated,” and that made me anxious. Thinking that my actions might have been wrong, I consulted my sister.
My older sister has already overcome the rebellious phase and is raising her son. From my sister’s perspective, Eita’s behavior seemed unacceptable. She encouraged me, “Eita is already in high school. You can trust him anytime,” and became my ally.
My husband scolded me, saying, “Come back home.” I expressed my feelings to him. “I want you to think about what I have done for the family. I feel like they don’t respect me as a member of the family.” And I realized my true feelings.
I was surprised by my husband’s words. I hated that Eita’s rebellious attitude was becoming similar to my husband’s…
The problems within our family started long before Eita became rebellious. But I continued to pretend not to notice. Deep down, I knew that if I couldn’t bear it anymore, I wouldn’t be able to maintain the family. Let’s change the situation I caused. I finally feel like I understand that I have to do it even if everyone opposes it. It might be too late, but I have made up my mind.
Next, [Episode 6].
Original: Mamasta Community Script: Asako Furukawa Illustration: Maneko Nakayama Woodcut: Teruko Ii