It's just about time for the festival.

I got into the dark green yukata and stepped out of my room.

My mom let out a high pitched squeal.

"Oh, you just look so handsome! If only you could look this sharp more often... " she said proudly.

"So, I'm guessing that means I look alright?" I said.

She took me to the mirror in the hallway.

"Masako would be so happy for you." she said.

I noticed her starting to tear up and I hugged her.

"Hey mom, don't cry. " I said.

She broke away from me.

"It's just... "

She brushed some hair off my face.

"When you have children of your own someday, then you'll know. " she said.

She pointed to the door.

"Now, go get going or you'll be late, okay? " she said.

I smiled.

"Bye mom. " I said.

"Bye Kouta. "