Chapter 1
In the waiting room, a woman is sitting on a long chair, waiting for her turn. She is pretty large for a woman and is wearing a black dress. She has eye makeup on, and her hair is black and long. She is fidgeting with her fingers and staring into space, lost in thought.
An old man sitting on a long chair looks at her. She catches his eye and smiles. The old man also smiles. She is thin but has a sturdy build and wide shoulders. At that moment, a female employee at the counter calls her name. "Michelle." She replies in a slightly husky male voice, "Yes." The female employee stands up and walks toward her, saying, "This way, please." Michelle follows the female employee into a room. Inside the room, a male counselor named John is sitting on a sofa, waiting for her. John says, "Welcome, Michelle. Nice to meet you. Please have a seat." Michelle sits on the sofa across from John and says, "Hello." John says, "I heard from Paul that you were coming, and I've been looking forward to this moment. Michelle, I'm a big fan of yours. I support you." Michelle smiles and says, "Thank you." John says, "Michelle, I have so many questions for you. Usually, when I counsel clients, I let them lead the conversation, but I'd like to make an exception with you. Is that okay?" Michelle replies, "Sure, I don't mind. Do whatever makes you comfortable." She laughs. John says, "Alright, that's nice of you, Michelle. Alright, let's start with the first question. Michelle, why did you decide to become a woman?" Michelle coughs once and laughs. "That's a question I get asked a lot. It's a bit complicated to explain, but it's probably not for the reasons you're thinking. Most people call people like me transgender, or trans for short. And most people think that transgender people undergo surgery to change their gender because of their gender identity. Or because they like the same sex. And there are many transgender people who do that. But my case is different. Neither of those reasons apply to me. The reason I decided to change my gender was because of the stereotypes I had to endure because of my gender, and the roles I was assigned because of my gender. People, both men and women, expected me to behave in a certain way because I was a man. And there were also people who assumed I would act that way. While there were certainly good aspects to living as a man, it wasn't always positive. Whether I wanted or not, I had to endure people's stereotypes. And above all, it was extremely difficult for me to find someone I truly loved. I am attracted to women who are slightly masculine and assertive. Of course, appearance is important too. But as a man, it wasn't easy for me to find such a woman. Most of the women I've met in my life have had personalities that were the complete opposite of what I wanted. They were passive, wanted to be treated like women, wanted men to protect them, and expected everything to be done for them. And only then, they'd give in. John interrupts Michelle briefly and asks, "By 'give in,' do you mean have sex?" Michelle replies, "Yes." She adds, "And I also didn't like hearing that men are stronger than women, so they should make concessions and act like gentlemen. First of all, I don't think men are stronger than women. Of course, they may be physically stronger, but I believe women can be stronger than men in non-physical aspects. That's why I didn't like hearing that men should be considerate, give in, and protect women. And I don't like women who make such demands of me. And not all women are good enough to deserve such treatment. I wanted true gender equality, without any contradictions. And I envied women. They always get all the men's attention if they have a good figure and are pretty. I wanted a life where someone would come to me even if I just stayed still, where I didn't have to be the one to approach first. But as a man, it was too difficult to live such a life. Of course, I could meet someone I liked or loved, but I didn't know when that person would appear, and finding such a person was too difficult. So, being impatient, I decided to try living a different life. Since we only live once, I decided to live life on my own terms and try a different life." John looks at Michelle with great interest and says, "I see. Are you satisfied with your life now?" Michelle replies, "I feel a bit more at peace." John asks, "Michelle, did you ever feel sexual attraction toward women when you were a man?" Michelle replies, "Yes, I did. I did like women. But this issue was more important to me, so I ultimately chose this path." John asks, "I see. Do you still take hormone injections?" Michelle answers, "Yes." John says, "Wow, Michelle, you're really amazing. It must have been really hard to make that decision." John says, "I saw pictures of you when you were a man. You were handsome and in good shape. I heard you used to do martial arts." Michelle says, "Yes, I did that for quite a while." John says, "I see. Let's talk about your job. You're an actress. How's that going?" Michelle says, "It's just... fun. I'm still a newbie, so I have to do whatever the director tells me to do. It's manageable. I'm just doing it to make money." John says, "I see. But you know, I know this might be rude, but I'll just say it. Forgive me, Michelle. You can no longer experience the sexual pleasure you felt when you were a man. Can you handle that?" Michelle says, "Well, you have to accept it. That's just how life is, isn't it? If you want something, you have to sacrifice something else. You can't have everything. It's sad, but that's life, isn't it?" John laughs and says, "Michelle, you know something. You just moved me. Yeah, when you think about it, life is pretty shitty, isn't it?" Michelle laughs and says, "Yeah, but we're alive, so we should live as happily as possible. By any means necessary. But that doesn't mean we should do bad things." John says, "Michelle, what you just said really resonates with me. I gave up my pride to be with a woman who didn't love me. I confessed my feelings to her, but she didn't even look at me. But in the end, we got married. I sacrificed my pride to win her love. It was pretty shitty. Still, I was able to win my wife's love. But my wife died recently. She's no longer here." Michelle says, "I'm sorry." John says, "No, strangely enough, I feel more at peace since my wife died. When she was alive, I was tormented by my love for her and my burning sexual desire, but after she died, all of that disappeared. I feel at peace. I don't know why I feel this way. Maybe I'm turning into a psycho." John says, "Michelle, there must be some downsides to being a woman, like men's excessive attention, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Can you handle those things?" Michelle says, "Those things aren't great, but I'd rather deal with that than be a lonely person no one cares about. Anyway, life is shitty, so this is better. And no matter what form it takes, as long as it's not mockery or bad attention, I've always wanted attention. Being noticed is what I've always wanted. I wanted to be loved by people. And I'm a selfish individual as well, like how everyone else is. I wanted to be loved, not give love. Of course, I wanted to give it too, but I liked receiving it more." John says, "I see, Michelle. You're not selfish. And even if you are, that's perfectly normal. Everyone is a little selfish. Without being selfish, it's hard to succeed in this shitty world." Michelle says, "Is that so? Anyway, I'm not a good person. Like everyone else in the world, I'm ultimately just a selfish person."
Chapter 2
Michelle's boyfriend Brian is cleaning the house. Someone rings the doorbell. It's some thugs who have come to collect money from Brian. Brian looks outside through the window and sees the thugs standing in front of the house. Brian sighs, grabs his wallet, and walks toward the door, opening it. Three thugs are standing there wearing leather jackets. One is big and muscular, another is skinny, and the third is shorter and looks mean. His hair is dyed red, and he has tattoos on both arms. The red-haired man says, "Money?" Brian takes the money out of his wallet and hands it to the man. The man's name is Henry. Henry counts the money, one bill at a time, and says, "What? That's not enough. Is that all? That's not what we agreed on." Brian says, "I'm sorry. I need a little more time. If you give me another week, I'll pay you back." Henry says, "You bastard, are you kidding me? Last time you asked for another week too." Brian says, "I'm sorry. I'm in a tough situation. Please give me another week." Henry says, "You faggot. Faggots always screw everything up. I'm not letting this slide this time. Stop lying and give me the rest." Brian says, "We don't have any money right now." The muscular man behind him grabs Brian by the collar and drags him inside the house. The muscular man pulls out a gun from his pocket, points it at Brian's chin, and says, "Where's the money?" Brian trembles and stays still. The muscular man says, "Where is it, you bastard?" Henry enters the house, puts his hand on the muscular man's shoulder, and says, "Hey, Paul, calm down. You're too excited right now." The muscular man named Paul says, "These bastards need to be dealt with harshly. Fucking homo bastards." Henry looks at Brian's trembling face, laughs, and says, "This guy is scared. Hahaha. Hey, you piece of shit, listen carefully. This is the last time. If you don't pay back all the money next time, you'll end up with a hole in your head." He then places his finger on the center of Brian's forehead. Henry says, "Got it, you bastard?" and adds, "Since you couldn't pay it all back today, you'll have to pay double next time." Brian nods nervously. Henry says, "If you don't pay next time, both you and your gay lover will be dead." Henry and the men laugh and leave the house. They depart.
A few hours later, Michelle arrives home in her car. She parks the car and enters the house. Brian is sitting in the living room, sobbing. Michelle quickly approaches Brian and asks, "Brian, what's wrong? Why are you like this?" Brian sobs, "David, they came again. This time they want double. If we can't pay them back this time, they'll kill us both." Michelle says, "Just call me Michelle." Brian replies, "Oh, right. Yeah, Michelle. They said this is our last chance. If we can't pay them double this time, they'll kill us. I'm sorry, Michelle. It's all my fault. I shouldn't have borrowed money from them in the first place. Forgive me. This is all my responsibility." Michelle hugs Brian and says, "No, it's not your fault. You did it to protect us. I understand. It's not your fault." Brian says, "Michelle, what are we going to do now?" Michelle takes a deep breath and says, "Don't worry. I have a plan."
That night, Michelle calls James. James answers the phone and says, "David, it's been a while! How's it going, you crazy fuck? What's going on this time?" Michelle says, "Just call me Michelle." James laughs and asks, "Alright, Michelle, what's going on?" Michelle says, "I need a favor." James asks, "What is it?" Michelle says, "I have to fight again. Set up a match for me." James says, "You're really crazy, aren't you? You're on cocaine, aren't you? First you changed your gender, and now you want to fight like that? Are you really that crazy? Did you take drugs?" Michelle says, "I'm serious. I'm in a tough spot. Please book me as a man. I need the fight by tomorrow night." James says, "What the hell are you talking about? Transgender fighters aren't allowed in the ring, you idiot. Go back there and get yourself fixed so you can fight as a man. Then maybe there's a chance. In your current state, you can't get into the game. And do you know how strong male fighters are? In your current state, you'll never win. Maybe if you were your old self. You'll be torn to pieces. Snap out of it, you idiot." Michelle pleads, "Please. I beg you. I need money. This is the only thing I know how to do. Get me a match. I need to make money." James sighs and says, "Alright. Just give me a minute. But there's no guarantee it'll work out. I'll check and get back to you." He adds, "You're an actor. You have a job." Michelle replies, "I quit yesterday. It's too hard to break into, and it doesn't pay enough. Plus, the money I make there isn't enough anyway." James says, "Really? Then I'll look into it and get back to you." Michelle says, "Thanks, James." The phone hangs up. James finishes eating the hot dog he was eating and mumbles to himself, "What a jerk."
A few hours later, James calls Michelle again. Michelle answers the phone. Michelle asks, "James, how did it go?" James says, "Michelle, I got the job. I can't believe it. Anyway, I got it, but it's a tough guy. He's the one who's hot right now. Are you really going to do this? Are you sure? Think carefully. He's a tough guy. You could get hurt." Michelle replies, "I'm sure. I'm desperate. I'm doing this for my boyfriend. I have some fighting experience, you know. I can hold my own. I want to do this. No, I have to do it. My situation is already fucked up. I'm going to do this. I'm really sure." James laughs and says, "Alright, you bastard, you're my friend. Work hard and let's win this match. You've come a long way. You have to win."
Chapter 3
A week later, Michelle is at the fight arena. She is wearing a plain white T-shirt, black shorts, and her hair is tied back. She stands in the ring.
The opponent is shirtless, wearing only shorts. He has massive muscles and is very large. The opponent approaches Michelle and says, "Hey, lady. I'll take you after the match." He laughs. The bell rings, and the first round begins. The opponent approaches Michelle and swings his fists wildly. Michelle dodges all of them. The opponent laughs and says, "Not bad." He continues to rainpunch down on Michelle. Michelle dodges them all and lands a solid punch on the opponent's face. The opponent staggers from the blow. Blood flows from the opponent's nose. The opponent says, "You bitch," then charges at Michelle, grabs her, lifts her up, and throws her to the ground. Michelle falls to the ground, in pain. The opponent climbs on top of Michelle and unleashes relentless punches. Michelle raises her guard and defends herself, but she still takes many hits. As Michelle's mind begins to fog, the first round ends. The opponent stops punching, says, "You worthless trash," to Michelle, and spits in her face. Then he gets up and returns to his corner. A brief rest period is given. The rest period lasts one minute. Michelle gasps for breath, trying to regain her composure. Her head is spinning. Michelle thinks she has found an opening in her opponent's defense. Her opponent's movements are too big. Michelle's arms and legs are shaking. Her body doesn't feel the same as before. Michelle sharpens her focus. The second round begins. As soon as the second round begins, Michelle charges at her opponent, timing her move perfectly, and lands a sharp punch on his face. As the opponent flinches from the punch, Michelle delivers a roundhouse kick to his face. The opponent is knocked out cold. The opponent falls to the ground. Michelle gasps for breath. The crowd erupts in cheers. Michelle has won the match.
Michelle gathers her belongings and walks toward her car. James runs up to Michelle and says, "Michelle~~ Michelle~~~~!!! You did it, you bastard! You're my friend. I knew you could do it. I got the money. Here." He hands Michelle the money bag. James says, "I knew you could do it. Even though you are different from before, your skills are still the same." Michelle replies, "Of course. I'm a fighter, you know. The opponent was weaker than I expected." James says, "Yeah, yeah. Compared to you, he was just trash. Haha. Anyway, thanks for the good game. Go home and have a good night. If you need anything, give me a call." Michelle, looking tired, says, "Thanks, James. I need to go home and rest." She gets into her car and heads home.
The next day, Henry and the men came to collect the money from Michelle and Brian. Brian hands the money Michelle earned, to the men. Brian says, "It's exactly as promised." Henry takes the money and says, "You should have done this sooner. We wouldn't have been tired, and it would have been so much better." They leave. That night, Michelle's phone rings again. It's James. Michelle answers the call. James says, "Michelle, I have something to tell you. My boss wants to see you."
Michelle drives to the address James gave her. On the way, she accidentally gets into a car accident. She crashes into another car. A woman gets out of the car and walks toward Michelle. The woman is wearing a black dress and black high heels. Michelle also gets out of the car. The woman in the black dress says to Michelle, "Miss, are you crazy? Do you know how much my car is worth?" Michelle says, "I'm sorry." The woman inspects her car carefully. Michelle looks at the woman closely and says, "Jane?" The woman looks at Michelle and asks, "Huh? How do you know my name?" Michelle says, "Jane, it's David." The woman looks at David and says, "David?" Jane looks Michelle up and down and says, "David? Are you really David? What on earth have you done?" Michelle says, "You can see for yourself," and laughs. Jane says, "It's been a long time, David. I was just about to call you." Michelle says, "It's good to see you."
Michelle finally arrives at her destination. She enters a white house. James is there. James says, "Hey, Michelle, what took you so long?" Michelle says, "I'm sorry, I had a car accident on the way." James says, "Oh, come on, you should have been more careful. The person I'm going to introduce you is very important. You have to make a good impression on him." Michelle approaches a man sitting on a sofa inside the house and greets him. "Hello, I'm Michelle." The man is wearing a gray suit and a gray tie. The man says, "Nice to meet you, Michelle. I've heard a lot about you." The man has a business-like aura. He is thin and bald. The man says, "Michelle, so you're the one who can throw a punch?" Michelle smiles and says, "Yes, I've been doing martial arts since I was a kid." The man says, "I'm Carl. I saw your fighting skills. I watched your fight videos. You can really fight." Michelle says, "Thank you." The man says, "Do you want to work for me? I heard you need money." Michelle asks, "May I ask what kind of work it is?" Carl says, "It's not that difficult. It's just using your fists. I just need you to take care of some guys and shit like that." Michelle asks, "Is that illegal?" Carl says, "Does that matter to you right now?" Michelle says, "No, it doesn't. I need the money." Carl says, "So, are you taking my offer?" Michelle says, "Yes." Carl says, "Good. Then you'll do whatever I tell you from now on. I'll pay you well." Carl calls Michelle on her phone. Carl says, "Here's my number. Call me if you need anything." Michelle says, "Okay."
That night, Michelle receives a call. She answers it. It's Jane. Jane says, "David, I thought I'd give you a call. We ran into each other the other day, right? Can you talk now?" Michelle says, "Sure, what's up?" Jane says, "Actually, let's meet up sometime."
The next day, Michelle meets Jane at a restaurant. They eat and talk. Jane asks, "How have you been?" Michelle replies, "I'm okay." Michelle asks, "How about you?" Jane says, "I'm doing well. But how did you end up like this?" Michelle laughs and says, "It's personal." Jane says, "David, do you remember when you confessed your feelings to me? Don't you like girls?" Michelle laughs and says, "Well, I guess not. Maybe I didn't like you. Why are you asking me that?" Jane says, "I'm sorry." Jane says, "I just have a lot of questions since we haven't seen each other in a while. Anyway, what have you been up to lately?" Michelle says, "Me? I was trying out acting as a newcomer, but I quit recently. It didn't pay well. Plus, I'm transgender, so I faced a lot of discrimination. So now I'm into fighting, mixed martial arts." Jane says, "Mixed martial arts?? Isn't that really dangerous? What if you get hurt or worse? Are you talking about street fights or something?" Michelle says, "Yeah." Jane says with a sympathetic expression, "David… How did things get this way? Life must have been really tough for you." Michelle says, "Life's always been tough." Jane says, "David, should I help you find a job? Let's work together at a company. What do you think?" Michelle says, "I appreciate the offer, but I'll just take your kindness. You don't have to do that. And I actually found another job recently." Jane asks, "What kind of job?" Michelle replies, "It's just some job." Jane asks, "David, do you have a girlfriend?" Michelle answers, "Yeah, I do. Do you?" Jane says, "Yeah, I'm already married. I'm a married woman." Michelle says, "I see." Jane smiles and takes Michelle's hand. Then she says, "David, it's been a long time." Michelle smiles sadly and says, "Yeah, it's been a long time. It's a little awkward, and it brings back memories." Jane says, "Yeah." Just then, Michelle's phone rings. She answers it. It's Carl. Carl says, "Come over here. I'll send you the address."
Chapter 4
Karl is in a warehouse-like place with his men. In front of him is a man wearing only his underwear, trembling, covered in blood, kneeling on the floor. Karl brings a wooden chair and sits down in front of the man. He takes out a cigarette, lights it, and asks the man, "Why did you do that?" The man trembles and says, "I'm sorry. But she came on to me first." He says, "You should have refused." The man says, "I'm sorry." Carl exhales cigarette smoke and says, "Don't apologize. You already fucked up. Apologizing doesn't do anything." Carl looks at Michelle and says, "Hey, Michelle, come here." Carl hands Michelle a gun and says, "You finish it." Michelle looks at Carl and says, "I never agreed to kill anyone." Carl says, "Are you refusing my order? Don't you want to make money?" Michelle sighs and says, "Carl, you don't have to kill him." Carl looks at Michelle and says, "No need to kill him? Hmm... This is interesting. Then let's not kill him. I'll shoot him in the waist and make him a cripple for life." Michelle says, "Carl, that's not what I meant..." Carl says, "Then kill him." Michelle hesitates for a moment. Carl says, "Why? You can't do it?" Michelle says, "Carl..." Carl pulls out a pistol and fires it wildly at the floor around Michelle. Startled, Michelle accidentally pulls the trigger of the pistol she was holding, and the bullet pierces the man's head. With a loud bang, the man dies instantly. Michelle is startled, takes a step back, and drops the gun on the floor. Carl laughs, stands up, and says, "Bravo!" then chuckles. Michelle, overwhelmed by shock, stands still, trembling. Carl approaches Michelle and says, "This is what you did. Now you're one of us. Don't worry, the police are on my side. As long as you work with me, you'll be safe. Welcome to the family." Everyone there applauds. Carl says, "Congratulations on joining our organization." Michelle quickly runs outside, gets into her car, and leaves the scene. Carl laughs, "That guy is cute. He's sexy too." James laughs and says, "Honestly, you're a little attracted to him, aren't you?" Carl laughs and says, "A little."
A few years ago
Jane and David are eating ice cream and walking together. David says to Jane, "Jane, I have something to tell you." Jane says, "What is it?" David says, "Marry me." Jane looks at David and says, "Are you proposing to me right now?"
David says, "Why? Why are you so surprised? Is there something wrong with that?" Jane smiles and says, "David, I really appreciate your feelings, but there's a bit of an age difference between us. Hahaha." David says, "Really? But we can overcome that. We can adjust to each other. What's most important is that we like each other." Jane says, "Really? But you know, I don't have time for a relationship right now. And I don't want to give my heart to anyone right now." David says, "I see. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up." Jane says, "No, you don't have to be sorry. I'm actually grateful. I'll just take your feelings. Let's just stay friends. I don't really want to think about marriage or dating right now." David says, "Really? I see. I understand." Jane says, "But thank you so much. I just got all shy. Haha. What's with you being so manly and confessing like that? Haha." David says, "Hey, why is confessing your feelings manly? Anyone can do that, regardless of gender. I don't really understand what you mean by 'manly.' What exactly is manly, and what is feminine?" Jane says, "Oh, really? You're right. 'Manly' is a strange word. Sorry, I misspoke." David says, "No, you didn't misspeak. It's okay." The two look at each other and smile.
David's high school days
David is listening to a lecture in class. The bell rings, and it's time for a break. The students who bully David approach him. One of them hits David on the head with his palm. Then he laughs and says, "You were sleeping in class. You're such a loser." Another student standing nearby says, "You bastard, you were supposed to clean yesterday. You didn't do it and ran away. Do you want to die?" The students surround David and laugh. Someone shouts, "Stop it!" It's Brian. The students look at Brian. One of the students says, "What's with you? Are you two dating?" Brian looks down. The students approach Brian, and one of them says, "This guy's funny. You're David's boyfriend, aren't you?" Brian says nothing and stays silent. The student says, "Hey, when someone talks to you, you should answer. Are you mute? You bastard!" Brian is too scared to say anything and just stands there. David gets up, grabs a chair, and hits the student on the head with it. The student falls down, bleeding from his head. The student yells, "Fuck!" Other students rush over to David and beat him up. David is beaten up.
After school, David is on his way home. Brian runs up behind him and says to David, "Hey, David. Thanks for earlier." David looks at Brian. Then he just keeps walking forward. Brian says, "Hey, you're David, right? I'm Brian." Then he adds, "Let's be friends from now on." David just keeps walking forward, looking straight ahead.
The next day, David is in class at school. He feels someone staring at him, so he looks over and sees Brian sitting there, staring at him.
When their eyes meet, Brian quickly looks away. After school, David is walking home. He feels like someone is following him, so he looks back and sees Brian following him. David says, "Hey, why are you following me?" Brian stammers, "I wanted to walk with you." David says, "Then just say you want to go together. Why follow me secretly?" Brian says, "I'm sorry. But if I say I want to go together, you'll ignore me and leave, just like last time." The two walk together, talking.
After David becomes an adult,
David is waiting in the waiting room. A nurse calls David. He enters the operating room with the nurse. He lies down on the operating chair. The doctor approaches him and says, "Hello. Are you ready?" David says in a trembling voice, "Yes."
The doctor prepares for surgery and asks, "This is a question I ask every patient who comes in for surgery. Why are you having this surgery?" David replies, "Because I hate gender roles. I'm tired of the stereotypes people have about men." The doctor smiles and says, "Really? That's unique. It's not a typical answer. But is that really why you're doing this?" David says "It means a lot to me. I want to be treated as a person, as just a human-being. I'm tired of living a life where people expect me to fulfill a certain gender role." The doctor laughs and says, "Huh, that's interesting. Well, it's your body, so… I understand. Don't worry. It'll be over quickly. We'll use anesthesia, so it won't hurt much. Don't get too nervous. It'll be over in a flash." The doctor adds, "After the surgery, will you keep your name, or change it?" David says, "I want to change it. To Michelle." The doctor laughs and asks, "Why Michelle?" David says, "It's the name of someone I had a crush on when I was younger. My first love." The doctor laughs and asks, "I see. Do you still love her?" David replies, "No, it turned out she wasn't the person I thought she was." The doctor says, "I see. I understand. I talk a lot, don't I? Well, let's get started with the surgery."
One year after the surgery,
Michelle is drinking at a bar. Michelle has long black hair. A large, muscular man approaches Michelle. The muscular man asks, "Hey, lady, are you free today?"
Michelle smiles and says, "Sorry, but I'm a man. I had gender reassignment surgery." The muscular man says, "Bullshit. How can a man be this sexy?" Michelle pulls down her pants and underwear, revealing her surgical scars. She says, "Do you believe me now?" The muscular man says, "Shit, you're real. You fucking homo," and spits on Michelle's face. He then says, "Go to hell," and walks away. At that moment, two men dressed in black enter the bar. The two men look rough. They order a bottle of whiskey and watch a mixed martial arts video on the bar's TV. One of them says, "That guy's pretty good. His punches are really strong. That's the kind of guy we need." The other one says, "That guy is pretty good. But he's using too much energy. He'll be done in the fifth round. David did well. There's no one like David. That idiot suddenly decided to get gender reassignment surgery and become a woman, so we lost a good fighter. Why did that moron do that? Is he an idiot? I mean for fucksakes, without that, he'll never be able to have sex again. What a fool." Michelle hears the entire conversation. Michelle leaves the bar.
Present
Michelle is at the counseling clinic again. Counselor John and Michelle are in the room. John says, "Thank you for coming, Michelle. How was your week?" Michelle says, "It was busy, very busy." John says, "I see. Were you very busy?" Michelle says, "Yes, I was." John smiles and says, "I see. It sounds like you had a busy week." John takes a sip of his tea and says, "Michelle, by the way, I have something I've been wondering about. Is it okay if I ask?" Michelle says, "Sure, go ahead." John says "You have a girlfriend, right? Didn't you say you had a girlfriend? I remember her name was Jane." Michelle says, "That's right." John says, "Can I ask you a little about her? As I recall, she wasn't your only girlfriend, but anyway." Michelle says, "Sure, go ahead. What do you want to know about her?" John says, "First of all, what kind of person was she? Why did you like her?" Michelle says, "She was... the only person I ever truly loved among all the women I've ever met." John says, "Why?" Michelle says, "Well... it's a little hard to explain, but no matter what happened, no matter what I thought or said, she was always on my side. And even when I acted childishly, she never laughed at me or ignored me, she always understood me. She accepted and loved me for who I was. And she and I thought alike. Maybe that's why I fell in love with her." John laughs and says, "I see. And of course she was beautiful, right?" Michelle says, "Of course." John laughs heartily. John says, "Yeah, ha ha ha, that's funny." John asks, "But Michelle, how did you end up breaking up with her?" Michelle says, "Well, you know, it's obvious. We just argued over little things, couldn't agree on anything, started making unreasonable demands of each other, and before we knew it…" John says, "Unreasonable demands?" Michelle says, "She wanted a child." John says, "I see. And you didn't want one?" Michelle says, "No, I didn't want one. I didn't think I could be a good father, and I felt it was too much responsibility to take on a child's life. Plus, I didn't really understand what a child meant to me... That's how I felt. And I thought having a child would mean losing my freedom." John says, "I see. Do you see her these days?" Michelle says, "I ran into her by chance recently." John says, "I see. How did it feel?" Michelle says, "Um... it was really strange. It brought back memories and made me feel like I was back in the past for a moment... It's really hard to explain." John says, "I see. Michelle, you said Jane wasn't your only lover. Does that mean you dated other people besides Jane?" Michelle says, "Yes, I dated other women, but they didn't mean anything to me. I just wanted to seem like I was someone to other people, so I dated them even though I didn't want to. If you're born as a man, it's strange. The older you get, the more people look down on you if you don't have a lover. The world is such a dirty place." John takes a deep breath and says, "Michelle, when I talk to you, I lose track of time. Heh heh. Alright, one last question. How did you meet Jane? Can you tell me about your memories with her?" Michelle says, "Oh, that? Haha, we were really happy. You know, the so-called happy couple? That's what we were. It was when I was in college..."
Michelle's college days,
Michelle is looking for her classroom in the college hallway. At that time, Michelle was David, a man. David can't find his classroom and is wandering around. Then a woman approaches David and asks, "Excuse me, do you know where Professor Ian's 2 PM class is?" David replies, "Oh, I'm looking for it too. I don't know where it is." The woman says, "Really? Want to go up to the next floor and check?" David says, "Sure, okay." The two go up to the next floor and eventually find the classroom. They enter the classroom and sit down together. David starts to doze off because the class is boring. The girl taps David on the shoulder with her finger and whispers, "Are you sleepy?" David smiles and says, "Yeah." The girl hands David some gum and says, "Want some gum?" David says, "Oh, sure." and starts chewing. The girl says, "My name is Jane." David replies, "My name is David." Jane says, "Nice to meet you." David looks at Jane. She is his perfect ideal type. At that moment, the professor calls David and asks him a question about the class. David is flustered because he doesn't know the answer, but Jane whispers the answer to him. David gives the answer and gets through the crisis. David whispers, "Thank you," to Jane.
After class, David asks Jane what the homework assignment was. Jane says, "You were not focusing in class again, weren't you?" and tells him the homework. David says, "Thank you." Jane says, "David? What's your phone number?" David says, "Oh," and gives her his phone number. They exchange their phone numbers. Jane says, "Have you eaten yet? Want to eat together?"
Present
John says, "I see. So that is how you met her. That's very interesting, Michelle. But I'm afraid we're out of time for today. I have another client coming in." Michelle says, "Okay, I understand. See you next week."
Michelle exits the counseling clinic. Her phone rings. It is Carl. Michelle answers the call. Carl says, "Hey, Michelle, did you have a good day? Haha. I have another job for you. This one pays well. If you do a good job, I'll give you a generous bonus. Come over here first. We'll talk when we meet."
Michelle arrives at Carl's house. Carl is wearing a red pajama, sitting on the sofa smoking a cigarette. Carl sees Michelle and says, "You're here, Michelle. This job is relatively easy. Just deliver something. Do you see that car outside? Get in that car, go to the destination I tell you, deliver it, and come back. It's simple." Michelle looks out the window at the car. Carl says, "I know, it would be nice if it were a nice car. I'm sorry it's such a piece of junk. Well, there's nothing we can do about it. If you handle this job well, I'll pay you generously. You can use the money to buy a nice car. Heh heh." Carl says, "Oh, and Mark will be going with you this time. Hey, Mark, come here." A man named Mark comes down from upstairs. He has red hair, tattoos all over his body, and tattoos on his face and hands. He is wearing a black suit. Mark greets Michelle. "Hello, I'm Mark." The two greet each other. Carl says to Michelle, "This guy is going with you. Get to know each other in the car, huh?"
Michelle is driving the car. Mark is sitting next to her. Michelle is following the navigation system to their destination. Mark speaks first. "You know, I'm just curious, but why did you decide to do it?" Michelle says, "Huh? What?" Mark says, "What do you think I'm talking about? The gender reassignment surgery." Michelle says, "Oh, that. I did it because I hated my gender role. I was tired of the way people looked at me just because I was a man. And the prejudices. I wanted to be treated as a person, not as a man." Mark says, "Really? But you'll still get that even if you become a woman." Michelle says, "Still, I think it's better this way." Mark says, "Really? Huh. Hmm... Gender roles, well, gender roles are bullshit, they don't make sense. In a way, men are at a disadvantage because sometimes we have to accommodate women for stupid reasons. But I don't really care about that. I just want to have sex. Women are all the same, fuck." Michelle says, "They're not all the same. Not all of them." Mark laughs, "You're still so pure and innocent. Women are all the fucking same. As long as a man is good-looking and treats her well, she'll spread her legs, fuck. They just like strong men, or men who look strong. Women are just meant to be used and discarded. They're all junk food. They're no different from junk food. Even if they have a shitty personality, it's just part of their charm. They were born to give their pussies to men. There's no woman with a proper mind. They're all just delicious junk food. Just eat them and throw them away. Or if they're tasty, eat them again and again. Hahaha." Michelle took a deep breath and said, "Mark, that's misogynistic." Mark says, "I don't give a fuck. I hate them, so what? Hating is my freedom, damn it. Hahaha." Michelle says, "Mark, are you on drugs?" Mark says, "Huh? You caught me. How did you know?" Michelle says, "I just had a feeling…" Mark says, "Oh, I'm sorry. We're not even that close, and I said too many shitty things. I'm sorry." Michelle says, "Mark, maybe you should try to talk less." Mark says, "Yeah, I understand. I'm sorry." The car arrives at its destination. It's in front of a large mansion, and people are coming out of the mansion and taking luggage from the trunk of the car. The car leaves the spot. On the way back, Mark asks Michelle to stop for a moment. Mark says, "I'm sorry, just one cigarette." and gets out of the car to smoke. At that moment, a black sedan approaches the car Michelle is in and stops. Men wearing black clothes and black masks get out of the car and approach Mark. Mark smiles and points at Michelle's car. The men pull out machine guns, walk toward Michelle's car, and fire indiscriminately. Michelle quickly ducks to avoid the bullets. Fortunately, she manages to avoid any fatal shots. Michelle speeds off in the car. She speeds away and manages to escape. The men get into their car and chase after Michelle. Michelle continues to drive at full speed. Suddenly, she collides with a passing truck. The car Michelle is in spins around several times.
When she opens her eyes, Michelle is in a hospital. She is lying in a hospital bed wearing a hospital gown. Michelle quickly gets up and runs out of the hospital. She can't stay there. Seeing Carl's men in the hospital corridor, she sneaks out of the hospital. Michelle, still wearing the hospital gown, is running down the sidewalk. Suddenly, she accidentally runs into Jane. Jane says, "David?" Michelle says, "Jane!" She looks around. Then she loses consciousness and collapses on the spot.
When she opens her eyes, Michelle is in Jane's house, lying on Jane's sofa. Michelle tries to get up and move, but Jane comes over and stops her. "You're awake, David. No, no, don't move. You're in a very bad state. You need to lie down." Michelle looks around and says, "What happened?" Jane says, "You fainted. What on earth happened?" Michelle sighs and says, "I'm sorry, I can't tell you." Jane approaches David and says, "David, it's okay. It's me. Tell me." Michelle tells Jane everything that has happened so far. Jane is shocked. Jane says, "I see." Michelle says to Jane, "Jane, please keep this a secret. Please." Jane stands there blankly. Michelle says, "Jane!" Jane says, "Uh, uh, okay."
Carl has just finished showering at home. He is wearing red pajamas and comes out to the living room. Mark is lying on the sofa, resting. Carl says, "Did you handle it well?" Mark says, "Yes, I did as I was told." Mark says, "Now you have to pay me." At that moment, the doorbell rings. Mark says, "I'll get it," and opens the door. Outside, Michelle is standing with a shotgun. Mark says, "Oh, Michelle!! You're back. Nice to see you. I'll welcome you as one of our family now." Michelle pulls the trigger of the shotgun. Mark is hit by the shotgun and flies backward, bleeding. Startled, Carl gets up from the sofa and walks over to see what's happening. Michelle shoots Carl's leg with the shotgun. Carl, with one leg blown off, screams and crawls away. James comes down from upstairs. Seeing Michelle, James says, "Hey, Michelle, calm down. It's me." Michelle fires the shotgun at James. Hit by the shotgun, James falls to the ground, bleeding. Michelle with the shotgun walks toward Carl. Carl groans and leans against the sofa. Michelle asks, "Why did you do that?" Carl shakes violently, his face turning bright red, says, "Don't you know? It's only natural in this world." Michelle says, "Then this is also natural," and shoots Carl in the head with the shotgun, blowing his head off. Blood splatters everywhere. Mark shivers and tries to go outside. Michelle approaches Mark and asks, "Hey, Mark, what's the reason? Why did Carl choose me?" Mark trembles and says, "You seemed too naive. We thought you would betray us someday and tell the police." Michelle says, "I see..." and shoots Mark with the shotgun.
Michelle returns to Jane's house. Jane comes out and greets Michelle. Michelle enters the house, sits on the sofa, and cries. Jane feels sorry for Michelle and hugs her. Michelle continues to cry. Jane says, "It's okay, Michelle. It's okay," and pats Michelle on the back.
A few years ago
David and Jane are at the Empire State Building. They are walking hand in hand. Jane says, "Come here, David," and takes David's hand, walking toward the window. She then takes a photo of David. "Look here, David." The camera shutter clicks. David is smiling, awkwardly but happily. Jane also smiles at David. They were happy...