Returning Home
The plane touched down at Narita Airport, marking the end of Yumi’s long journey from New York. Seven-year-old Yumi Imai stepped into her new world, her small hand clinging tightly to her mother’s.
Look, Yumi,
her mother said gently.
Your sister’s here to meet you.
Standing just beyond the gate was Sachie Imai, her face lighting up the moment she saw Yumi.
Yumi!
Sachie cried, racing forward to embrace her sister.
Yumi hugged her back, feeling safe and warm in her sister’s arms.
You’re finally home,
Sachie whispered.
I’m home,
Yumi answered softly.
School Life in Japan
Yumi soon began attending a private school in Kichijoji, the same school Sachie had been enrolled in for years.
Despite being eager to fit in, Yumi quickly realized she was different from her classmates. Having spent her early years in New York — and with her health still fragile — she struggled with physical activities. While her classmates played soccer, ran races, or enjoyed outdoor games, Yumi often found herself on the sidelines.
You don’t have to push yourself,
Sachie would say, giving Yumi an encouraging smile.
Instead, Yumi focused on what she knew best — her studies. Years of quiet indoor life had nurtured her love for reading, learning, and solving complex problems.
Rising Above
Their school, inspired by American educational principles, offered a fast-track system that allowed students to advance based on academic achievement.
Yumi,
her teacher said one day,
your grades are exceptional. Would you be interested in skipping a grade?
Yumi was stunned.
Can I really do that?
she asked.
Absolutely,
the teacher replied.
I believe you can handle it.
Yumi worked harder than ever, determined to prove herself. She excelled in mathematics, science, and languages — subjects she had grown to love during her childhood in New York.
Becoming Classmates
The following spring, Sachie stood outside her high school classroom, checking the new class lists.
Wait… this can’t be right,
Sachie murmured, staring at the paper in disbelief.
Surprise!
Yumi’s voice chimed from behind her.
Sachie turned to see her younger sister grinning brightly, her school uniform neatly pressed.
You’re… my classmate?
Sachie gasped.
Yup! I skipped a grade,
Yumi said proudly.
Looks like we’re in the same homeroom now!
Sachie’s surprise quickly turned into pride.
You know,
Sachie said with a smile,
I always wanted a little sister… but I never thought I’d end up with a little sister who’s my classmate, too.
Yumi giggled.
Well, I guess that makes you my big sister and my classmate!
The two sisters laughed together, knowing that despite the unexpected turn of events, they would always be there to support one another — whether as family, friends, or classmates.
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