'路上 (Rojyoo)' Summary

Shunsuke, a university student, is captivated by a woman he sees in the rain. Their chance encounter is followed by a meeting at a concert, where he is introduced to her as Tatsuko, the cousin of his friend's fiancée. As Shunsuke and Tatsuko find themselves repeatedly crossing paths, a complex dynamic emerges. The narrative dives into the emotional complexities of their evolving connection, exploring feelings of attraction, chance encounters, and the weight of his friend's relationship with Tatsuko's cousin. The story takes a poignant turn as Shunsuke is asked to visit a psychiatric ward with his friend's fiancée and Tatsuko, exposing the emotional turmoil of grappling with a loved one's mental health. The novella explores themes of love, fate, and the fragile nature of human connection amidst the shadow of mental illness.