Synopsis
Kenichi, a first-year middle school student, faces relentless bullying and attempts to take his own life by leaping from a third-floor window, but he survives against the odds. While recovering in the hospital, he shares a room with Jun Hayashi, a high school senior confined to his bed due to a severe heart condition. When Kenichi’s classmates visit, they concoct a story that his fall was an accident during window cleaning, which his mother accepts. Jun’s optimistic attitude and determination to keep going despite his illness profoundly affect Kenichi, and the two develop a close connection, promising each other they will share a bowl of tasty ramen together. They fulfill this promise before Jun goes into surgery. As Jun is wheeled away, he makes Kenichi vow, “If you ever feel like ending your life, give it to me instead. If you don’t want it, please give it to me!” Seeing how Jun can only rarely enjoy simple pleasures like good food, fun activities, and attending school, Kenichi regains his appreciation for life, realizing that those who face even harder circumstances would gladly trade their lives for his.