The year is almost over. It feels like just yesterday we were still wearing short sleeves, yet the season has already moved into late autumn. We talked about going somewhere together, and naturally decided on a hot spring trip. The joy of traveling the Japanese way—kaiseki cuisine at a traditional inn. Even as those words left my lips, my mind was filled with thoughts of her fresh from the bath. The accommodation is booked, train tickets secured, and of course, we’ve reserved the private family bath. Time to go! City trains always feel so hectic, but the one heading to our destination feels calm and pleasant. The scenery outside isn’t particularly special, yet somehow it appears vivid and unforgettable. Buying tasty snacks in the hot spring town, running wild at the autumn leaves viewing spot—every little gesture makes my heart race. You might be surprised to know that. The moment we arrived at the inn, I kissed her—unable to hold back once we were alone. That pent-up desire broke free like a dam giving way.