Fifty Words for Rain

Over the past seven years, Nori, who is now 23, has traveled to various parts of Europe. She has not played the violin since Akira’s death. She does not want to marry or have children. In March 1964, Nori attends a symphony in Paris. Will is the pianist. He spots her in the audience, and she flees.

Meanwhile, Alice lives in London. She is married to a man named George, who is the dull son of the Duke of Norfolk; she has two young daughters and is pregnant once again. While Alice loves her children, her life is otherwise unfulfilling. She misses Nori and presumes her dead. When Will arrives on a visit, he claims that he saw Nori in Paris. Alice doesn’t believe him. However, the next day, Nori appears at Alice’s door. Alice faints from the shock.

When Alice wakes in bed, Nori is by her side. The two women reunite like sisters and Alice insists that Nori move in with her. Over the coming months, Nori adjusts well to life in London. Alice hires a piano teacher, named Noah, for her daughters. He is 19, and Nori likes him instantly. Alice tries to convince her to get to know him better, but Nori says there is no point since she does not want love and romance.