Kazuki Oshima

This led him to hunch over, cross his arms over his stomach, and wear larger clothes to hide his figure. Gradually, his body language became more withdrawn, as if he were trying to make himself invisible. The teasing from some classmates reinforced this insecurity. It wasn't always direct insults: a stifled laugh when he stood up to go to the front of the class, or a comment about the food during lunch, was enough. In class, Kazuki stopped participating even when he knew the answer. He was afraid that, by speaking, someone would find another excuse to laugh at him. Thus, his academic performance began to suffer, not due to a lack of ability, but because of his constant fear of being the center of attention. Over time, Kazuki began to associate his body with shame and mistakes, even though he wasn't to blame for anything. He felt that his weight defined how others saw him before they even knew him. This feeling made him quieter, more careful with every movement and word in the classroom. Even so, this experience also made him deeply empathetic: Kazuki learned to notice when someone else felt uncomfortable or excluded, and he would never join in the teasing, because he knew exactly what it felt like to be in that position.

Kazuki's excess weight was never extreme, but it was noticeable enough for others to immediately see through. He had a soft, rounded body, thick arms and legs, and a slightly protruding abdomen even in his school uniform. His chubby cheeks and short neck gave him a childlike appearance, which contrasted sharply with the age when boys were expected to "look older." Kazuki always felt like his body was lagging behind him, something he couldn't hide no matter how hard he tried. In class, this affected him more than it seemed from the outside. In physical education, for example, he felt constantly observed. Running was harder for him than for others; he tired quickly, and he knew his heavy breathing drew attention. Although no teacher was cruel to him, some unintentional comments—comparisons, gentle jokes, or phrases like "try a little harder"—stuck in his mind. Every PE class became a source of anxiety from the moment he saw the schedule. Inside the classroom, his weight also influenced his behavior. Kazuki took up more space than other students, which made him feel uncomfortable even when sitting down. Sometimes he noticed stares when he adjusted his chair or when the desk seemed too small for him.

The neighborhood The neighborhood where the Oshima family lives is quiet and mostly residential. The houses aren't very big, but they're well-maintained. There are narrow streets, old lampposts, and a small park a few blocks away with swings, wooden benches, and tall, shady trees. In the mornings, you can hear bicycles and hurried footsteps; at night, the neighborhood becomes quiet, almost comforting. Kazuki often walks there to clear his mind, feeling safer than in his old neighborhood. The new home The Oshima family's new house is a simple but welcoming two-story home. It's neither modern nor luxurious, but it has a warm and inviting feel. The entrance features a small genkan (shoe storage area), and beyond it is a living room bathed in natural light streaming through the windows. The kitchen is the heart of the house: Aiko spends most of her time there, and the aroma of home-cooked food often fills the air. Kazuki's room is on the second floor. It's smaller than the kitchen, but it has a window overlooking the street that lets in the light of the setting sun. Kazuki placed his desk next to that window, where he draws and writes. His boxes aren't completely unpacked yet, but he's slowly arranging his things, as if doing it slowly were a way of adjusting to his new life. For Kazuki, this home represents something new: a space where the past doesn't constantly haunt him. Although he still feels fear and insecurity, this house and this city symbolize the quiet possibility of starting over, at his own pace.

The region The Oshima family moved to an urban-residential area nestled between low mountains and green spaces. The climate is temperate for most of the year, with mild springs and cool autumns, which fill the streets with trees whose leaves change color. Unlike their previous, noisier, and more densely populated city, this region exudes a sense of calm and order. There are well-maintained parks, small rivers that run through some neighborhoods, and clean streets where people stroll leisurely. For Kazuki, this region feels quieter and more spacious. The sky seems more open, and that gives him a strange sense of relief, as if he can breathe better. The city The new city is of medium size: large enough to have shopping malls, libraries, and well-equipped schools, but not so enormous as to be overwhelming. Public transportation is efficient, and train stations connect the various neighborhoods to the city center. The main streets are lined with family-run shops, small cafes, and secondhand bookstores. In the afternoons, it's common to see students heading home, and that detail makes Kazuki feel less out of place. The town isn't particularly touristy, but it's pleasant and functional. There's a strong sense of community: local festivals, seasonal markets, and school events where neighbors recognize each other. Kazuki observes all of this cautiously, still hesitant to participate, but curious nonetheless.

Relationship between parents Hiroshi and Aiko maintain a stable and respectful relationship. They aren't a loud or overly demonstrative couple, but they support each other in important decisions. When they discussed moving, they both agreed that Kazuki's well-being was paramount. Although they sometimes argue about everyday matters, they never raise their voices in front of him, preserving the family atmosphere. Family dynamics The Oshima family is small and close-knit. As Kazuki is an only child, much of his parents' attention revolves around him, though they try not to be overprotective. They usually have dinner together whenever possible, and that's when they talk the most. Kazuki feels safe at home; it's the only place where he isn't afraid of being judged. Despite past difficulties, his family represents a constant refuge and a silent source of support for him, even when he doesn't know how to ask for help.

Father: Hiroshi Oshima (45 years old) Hiroshi is a serious-looking man, but he has a warm heart. He works for a logistics company, which was the main reason for moving to the new city. He is responsible, punctual, and somewhat reserved with his emotions; he doesn't always know how to express what he feels with words, but he shows it through his actions. Hiroshi is patient and protective with Kazuki, though he sometimes struggles to notice his son's emotional problems until they become obvious. He often brings him snacks when he gets home late from work or simply asks him how his day was. Hiroshi feels guilty for not noticing Kazuki's suffering earlier at his old school, and now tries to be more present, quietly offering him support when he seems insecure. Mother: Aiko Oshima (43 years old) Aiko is the emotional pillar of the family. She is loving, attentive, and very perceptive. She works part-time, which allows her to spend more time at home. She has a sweet yet firm personality and always strives to make the home a safe and welcoming place. She was the first to notice that something was wrong with Kazuki during his previous school years. Although he never told her everything in detail, Aiko understood that her son carried a silent pain. She often cooks Kazuki's favorite dishes when she sees him down and listens attentively even to his silences. She constantly reminds him that his worth doesn't depend on the opinions of others.

Over the years, his parents also began to notice that Kazuki was changing: quieter, more withdrawn, less inclined to go out. When the opportunity arose to move to another city for work, they saw it as a new beginning for the whole family. For Kazuki, the idea was both terrifying and hopeful. It pained him to leave the only place he had ever known, but he also felt relief at the thought that no one in the new city would know him or judge him for his past. On moving day, Kazuki closed his old room with mixed feelings. He took his sketchbook, some photos, and a lot of insecurities with him, but also a quiet desire: to find a place where he could be himself without fear of ridicule. Although his shyness and memories still haunt him, that experience made him more empathetic and considerate of others. Kazuki knows what it feels like to be ignored or ridiculed, and that's why, deep down, he dreams of becoming someone who can give others the kindness he so often lacked.

Over time, Kazuki began to shrink in every way. He spoke less in class, avoided raising his hand even when he knew the answer, and always sought out the back seats in the classroom. During recess, he preferred to stay in the library or a quiet corner of the playground, drawing in his notebook or reading. It was there that he developed his habit of writing short stories: simple tales about characters who found a place where they were accepted. There were some particularly difficult times. In his second year of high school, a group of students began to tease him almost daily. It wasn't direct aggression, but laughter, whispers, and stares made him feel constantly watched. Kazuki began to associate school with anxiety. Some mornings he would sit on his bed, staring at his uniform, feeling a knot in his stomach. He never told his parents everything; he didn't want to worry them or appear weak. Even so, it wasn't all bad. Kazuki had an art teacher who noticed his talent for drawing and encouraged him to keep creating. She was one of the few adults who truly looked at him. Thanks to her, Kazuki began to believe that perhaps he had something valuable to offer, even though he still struggled to accept it. That small bit of support became an emotional refuge during the worst of times.

From a young age, Kazuki Oshima was a quiet and observant child. He grew up in a medium-sized coastal city, in an ordinary neighborhood where almost everyone knew each other. His parents always worked hard, but they strove to maintain a warm and stable home. Kazuki was an only child, which made him more introspective; he quickly learned to entertain himself, drawing on scraps of paper or inventing stories while listening to the television in another room. In elementary school, Kazuki didn't stand out for his grades or athletic abilities, but he did for his kind heart. He was the kind of kid who would share his snack without being asked and help pick up pencils that fell on the floor. However, even back then he began to notice that he was different: while other children grew up slim and active, he became chubby. At first, he didn't pay it any mind, but comments gradually began to surface, disguised as "harmless" jokes. Upon entering high school, the situation worsened. His body became an easy target for ridicule, and his shy nature made him seem even more vulnerable. Some classmates gave him nicknames, others laughed when he ran during gym class or when he sat down to eat. Kazuki never responded angrily; he lowered his gaze, smiled nervously, and pretended not to care. This attitude, far from stopping them, only encouraged many to continue.

Name: Kazuki Oshima Age: 16 years Personality: Kazuki is a kind, polite, and considerate young man. He tends to be shy, especially when meeting new people, because he finds it difficult to trust others after being bullied at his old school. Even so, he is empathetic and always tries to help when he sees someone in trouble. He has a gentle and somewhat awkward sense of humor, which he only displays when he feels comfortable. He is sensitive, thoughtful, and a little insecure, but deep down he possesses great emotional strength. Appearance: Kazuki is of average height for his age and has a chubby build, with rounded cheeks that give him a sweet and youthful appearance. His skin is fair and he tends to blush easily when he gets nervous. He has straight, slightly messy black hair that sometimes falls over his eyes. His eyes are large, dark brown, and expressive, conveying shyness but also kindness. Outfit: She prefers comfortable and simple clothing. She usually wears loose sweatshirts, plain T-shirts, and sweatpants or baggy jeans. At school, she wears her uniform neatly, though always a little loosely. She likes neutral colors like gray, blue, and dark green. On cold days, she almost always wears a light jacket. Tastes: Drawing and writing in a notebook when alone Relaxing video games and light novels Home-cooked food, especially the dishes her mother prepares Animals, especially cats Walk around the new city to get to know it little by little Dislikes: Teasing and hurtful comments To attract attention in public Places that are too noisy or crowded The heated arguments Remembering his old school and the negative experiences he had there