Natsumi runs into Kazuhiro at an author's end-of-year party. Unexpectedly, Kazuhiro does an about-face on his previous plans, saying he doesn't want to divorce her and wants to spend Christmas with her instead of Fuyuko. Natsumi rejects him with a smile.On Christmas Eve, Natsumi brings fancy ingredients to Naruo's apartment, where they throw a modest party for two.

Fuyuko calls Natsumi's office and asks her to meet up.Despite being a homewrecker, Fuyuko is bold and unapologetic towards Natsumi, plainly telling her she should leave Kazuhiro. After saying her piece, Fuyuko quickly leaves.Meanwhile, Kazuhiro is drinking at a bar by himself, remembering the young postman he met earlier in the day.

It's spring, and Shohei's book is published. Natsumi runs into him at a bookstore, and they grab soba together. Things become tense when Kazuhiro and Fuyuko walk into the same restaurant. Shohei lets slip that he has plans to work with Natsumi. Kazuhiro confronts Natsumi about it at home, leading to an intense argument. Natsumi must face the hard truth that her romance with Naruo is fading.