Kafka on the shore by Murukami, 27: Are you in love?

In this chapter of Kafka on the Shore by Murukami, Once more, the youthful apparition of Miss Saeki materializes in Kafka's room during the night. This time, he calls out to her, repeating her name with increasing urgency. He fears that if she disappears, he will be left heartbroken. For the first time, she seems to notice him, but she soon vanishes. The following day, a detective visits the library and speaks with Oshima, attempting to locate Kafka for questioning. The police have traced Koichi Tamura's stolen cellphone to Takamatsu. Oshima protects Kafka, informing the detective that he hasn't seen him for a few days. Upon learning this, Kafka expresses concern about Oshima becoming entangled in the situation, but Oshima notes that it's already too late.

Kafka continues to worry that he might be a suspect, as he feels guilty about his father's demise. Oshima reveals that the police informed him of Kafka's suspensions for violence at school. Kafka confesses that on several occasions, he blacked out and assaulted his classmates, feeling as if someone else controlled his body. Oshima sympathizes slightly, stating that merely enduring each day in his "defective container" of a body can be challenging. However, this simple task of survival isn't considered an accomplishment. Kafka also admits to despising his body's container, as his face, hands, and blood serve as constant reminders of the genes inherited from his parents—an inescapable legacy. He wishes he could flee from his body, just as he fled from his home. Oshima attempts to comfort him, asserting that it is the essence within them both that truly matters.

In the afternoon, Kafka brings coffee to Miss Saeki. He tells her that he's in love but doesn't disclose the object of his affection. As he prepares to leave, he mentions that he needs to ask her something personal. He inquires if she has any children, a question that visibly unsettles her. Eventually, she says she cannot answer. Returning downstairs, Kafka grapples with his confusion—is his love directed at the young ghostly version of Miss Saeki or the real, middle-aged woman upstairs? This chapter deepens the intricate relationships and emotions at play, exploring themes of guilt, identity, and the complexity of love.