The King of Novels

Yoshida is in despair due to another failed attempt to publish his novel while Koyanagi switches to the editorial department which has always been his dream. Just when Yoshida gives up writing, Koyanagi tracks him down and suggests working together to publish a new serialized novel.

Yoshida and Koyanagi work on a proposal for a new serialized novel. However, since Yoshida isn't famous, the editor-in-chief turns it down without hesitation. Koyanagi tried to act nonchalant but that causes Yoshida to misunderstand his real intention. Thus, Koyanagi proves his true intention and friendship when he begs Mr. Uchiyama to write again.

Mr. Uchiyama would write only if Koyanagi can find a theme that Yoshida truly resonates with. As Koyanagi spends more time at work, his relationship with his son is strained which makes him realize the theme Yoshida must write about. It now comes down to whether both friends have the determination to work on the chosen theme.

Koyanagi figures out the best theme for Yoshida. However, Yoshida can't face his painful past of being abandoned by his own dad. Koyanagi's son turns to Yoshida when his parents argued. Having spent time with Shizuka, Yoshida realizes he should express his feelings for his dad in written words.

Koyanagi works with Mr. Uchiyama while assisting Yoshida. Both novelists figure out their main plots. But Yoshida grows jealous of Nonomiya when he spots Haruko complimenting his work. Yoshida realizes his feelings for Haruko and confesses after she reads his revised work. Koyanagi returns home to find his wife and son gone.

Koyanagi refuses to give up despite his issues with his family but he's having second thoughts about staying in Kagura Publications as well. Yoshida realizes how much Koyanagi has sacrificed to realize their dreams. He starts to revise his novel to perfection. Both friends reached out to each other for support. Just when their hard work is acknowledged, bad news strikes again.

Haruko finds herself pregnant and asks Yoshida to marry her. However, as Kagura Publication ceases publication, Yoshida is uncertain of his own future and turns her down. Despite the setback, Koyanagi seeks an alternative opportunity to publish Yoshida's novel on Strawberry Fields, an online company.

Oga Ayano shows up to discuss promoting Yoshida's novel. However, she listed a condition that puts Yoshida in a dilemma. Meanwhile, Haruko confided her past in him while keeping him in the dark about her pregnancy.

Yoshida finally pops the question, but Haruko still has unsolved issues with her family. Koyanagi keeps trying to get "Epilogue" published in prints. Right when the premiere of the film adaption is nearing, they receive even more shocking news.

Yoshida is nominated for the Naoki Prize and Haruko suggested having their wedding on the same day. Everything seems to go smoothly, but Koyanagi receives a bad news. While waiting for the announcement of the Naoki Prize, Yoshida receives a call from the hospital.