I heard the news in the middle of our usual dinner.
"I'm quitting next month."
Yuzu said it while stuffing his mouth with fried chicken.
For a second, the chopsticks stopped.
"...Huh?"
Haruki looked up.
"Like I said, next month. I'm leaving the band."
"Why are you saying that now while eating fried chicken?"
Mizuki said, sounding exasperated.
Only Kaoru remained silent, watching Yuzu.
Yuzu laughed.
"Because if I said it properly, you guys would definitely get all heavy on me."
It was his usual tone.
And the next day.
Guest, who was to become the new drummer for this band in his place, opened the studio door.
"...I look forward to working with you starting today."
The sound of the four welcomed a fifth person for the first time.