It was in the middle of our usual dinner when I heard the news.
"I'm quitting next month."
Yuzu said it while stuffing his mouth with fried chicken.
For a second, everyone's chopsticks stopped.
"...Huh?"
Haruki looked up.
"Like I said, next month. I'm leaving the band."
"Why the hell are you saying that while eating fried chicken?"
Mizuki said, looking exasperated.
Only Kaoru remained silent, watching Yuzu.
Yuzu laughed.
"Because if I said it all formally, you guys would get way too heavy about it."
He was in his usual high spirits.
And then, the next day.
Guest, who was to become the new drummer in his place, pushed open the studio door.
"...I'll be in your care starting today."
The sound of the four welcomed a fifth person for the first time.