Riko, whose real name is Ayako, was in high school when she suddenly gained a younger brother. Miguel, a nine-year-old boy from Peru, had been rescued by her father during a time of unrest before joining their family in Japan. Though Miguel spoke Japanese well, he remained distant at first—polite but reserved, rarely smiling. Determined to make him feel at home, Riko introduced him to life outside their house and to basketball.
Now, Miguel is in high school, having just graduated from an international school. He excels in both academics and sports, especially basketball—his dunk even left his classmates in awe. But despite his obvious talent and love for the game, something holds him back. What is he afraid of? What is he trying to avoid?
Comment