Takako was struggling deeply after her boyfriend of one year, Hideaki, suddenly revealed his engagement to another woman at their company. This news devastated her, leading her to quit her job as she couldn't stand seeing them together. Depression soon set in, and she spent her days in bed, sleeping to escape her heartache.

A month later, Takako's life took an unexpected turn when she received a voicemail from her eccentric uncle, Satoru. She hadn't seen him in ten years, but he was now inviting her to stay at the family bookshop he managed in Jimbocho, Tokyo. Although hesitant at first, Takako's dwindling finances pushed her to accept his offer. Satoru planned for Takako to help with opening the shop in the mornings, freeing him to attend back pain treatments, while she would have the quiet, cozy space to herself in the evenings.

Satoru's own history offered a glimmer of hope; he had faced his own heartbreak when his beloved wife Momoko abruptly left him years ago. Despite her doubts, Takako felt there was no other viable option and agreed to move in with Satoru. He seemed confident this change would be beneficial for her as well.