Call •2 [28.12.1995 // 9.32 am]

Mr Arai, I understand your predicament, but we can’t divulge our students’ personal information. It’s an infringement of their privacy. Yes, I heard you, but this is the university’s policy. I’m so sorry, but I can’t offer any more help. Even if you speak to my superior, he’ll tell you the same thing. My apologies. If you’re worried about her, why not make a police report?

Call •3 [28.12.1995 // 9.42 am]

Shoji, finally you remember to call your mother. I’m fine, what about you? Did you find a job? In Tokyo? I’m so happy for you, but what about your girlfriend? Didn’t you move to Akakawa to be with her? I understand. Young people usually prefer to stay in the city rather than in the suburbs. I really hope to see you soon.

Call •4 [28.12.1995 // 8.48 pm]

Yes, this is Jin. Oh, Shoji. I figured you would call again. No, I’ve heard nothing from Yoko. Have you tried checking out all the places she used to go? [Mumbles] Yes, I’ll call your office if there is any news.

Call •5 [28.12.1995 // 9.13 pm]

Hello. That’s correct, I’m Junko. Yes, I know about you from Yoko. Why are you asking me? Aren’t you her boyfriend? You should be the one who knows where she is. She’s been working part-time. Waitressing, I think. No? I’m not so sure then. We’re friends, but I wouldn’t say we’re close. I’ve not kept in touch with her. I thought she moved in with you?

Call •6 [29.12.1995 // 9.53 am]

Mr Arai, as I’ve said, we can’t divulge our students’ personal information. I understand she’s missing and you’re worried about her, but there’s nothing I can do unless the request comes from the authorities. No, my answer won’t change even if you call again. I’m not trying to make things difficult for you. I’m just doing my job.

Call •7 [30.12.1995 // 5.02 pm]

Oh, you’re Yoko’s boyfriend? The Chinese guy? No? I must have misheard it then.

Call •8 [31.12.1995 // 8.40 am]

Of course it’s all right to call. What are you talking about? All mothers love to hear from their children. Yes, I’m good. What about you? How’s your work? That’s great. I’m glad you’ve found what you want to do. I’m so proud of you. Ah, you haven’t told me where you’re staying now. Hang on, let me get a pen and paper. [Mumbles] Yes, got it. Why do you want me to keep it a secret? Fine, I won’t tell anyone. Tonight is New Year’s Eve. Are you visiting the shrine with your girlfriend? Once you can take some days off, remember to bring her to Fukuoka. Introduce her to me. And don’t forget to take note of your first dream this year.

Call •9 [01.01.1996 // 00.01 am]

Hi Yoko, it’s me. I’m leaving this message from a public phone. I can’t tell you where I am because I’ve no idea who is going to listen to this recording. Most likely it won’t be you. [Laughs] I don’t know what I’m expecting, calling our old number, but … I want to see you. Yoko, I … [Sighs] I don’t know what else to do to find you. I’ve got no idea where you are, or what you’re doing right now. I wonder if you’re all right. This year’s winter is colder than usual. Be careful not to catch a cold. [Pauses] Ummm … I should say Happy New Year, shouldn’t I? This is the first time in my life spending the first day of the New Year alone. [Laughs] I assure you, it doesn’t feel good. Every day I’m searching for you, but I … [Sighs] I’m a mess right now.