The Dreaming Leaf

This volume marks the first short story collection by the acclaimed creator of "For You in Full Blossom." In the titular story, Futaba moves to Tokyo for high school and takes a live-in job at an old mansion to gain independence. She forms a spirited bond with Masato, a handsome fortune teller who happens to be her classmate, but soon uncovers the mysterious secret hidden within the estate. The collection also features "17 Romance," where Natsume, raised to compete with boys, finds her worldview challenged when her childhood friend Homare kisses her after protecting her from danger. In "The Law of Couples," Sakiko believes she has found her other half in Akio, a classmate who mirrors her thoughts perfectly, leading her to question whether she loves him or simply the reflection of herself she sees in him. Finally, "Heart Fruit" follows Meron, who pretends to have a crush on Ryou, the school's most intimidating rumored delinquent, to avoid hurting her best friend Chiho who likes the same boy as her. When Chiho tearfully supports her fabricated romance, Meron feels compelled to maintain the lie, only to discover that Ryou may not be as frightening as his reputation suggests.